The Fourth of July is a time for fireworks, fun, and of course, delicious food. Planning a holiday menu might be daunting if you’re just starting your gluten-free journey. Guess what? It doesn’t have to be! I pulled together the best gluten-free Fourth of July recipes that will make your Independence Day both delicious and stress-free.
So fire up the grill, and let’s make this Fourth of July one to remember—gluten-free style!
Grilling For Your Cookout
You’ve got plenty of naturally gluten-free options when it comes to grilling. While meat is naturally gluten-free, focusing on organic, grass-fed options is likely to settle better if you are extremely sensitive. Some, not all, highly gluten-sensitive people can struggle depending on what was in the animal’s diet.
Things we love to throw on the grill:
- Burgers
- Brats (Watch the ingredients)
- Hot dogs (again, watch the ingredients)
- Chicken
- Peppers & Onions tossed in a bit of olive oil
If you do have a mix of items that are gluten and gluten-free use separate utensils and grilling areas to keep everything safe and gluten-free. Extra care goes a long way in ensuring everyone can enjoy the feast without worries.
Last but not least, when you are grilling, don’t forget to check labels—many store-bought sauces and marinades contain hidden gluten, so opt for gluten-free versions or create your own at home.
Appetizers & Sides
As someone who is gluten-free, I often opt to bring my own appetizers or sides when we attend a cookout. This way, I know there is something safe and gluten-free for me. Plenty of gluten-free Fourth of July side dishes are available to make and bring along. Here are a few to start with:
- Watermelon Berry Fruit Salad
- Corn & Black Bean Salad
- Easy Corn Mango Salsa
- Simple Tuna Pasta Salad
- Spinach Berry Salad
- Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad {Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option}
- Mediterranean Gluten-Free Pasta Salad
- Gluten-Free Baked Beans
- Creamy Grape Salad
- Gluten-Free Cheesy Potato Casserole
Snacks
Gluten-free Fourth of July Snacks are always a win at any cookout. These simple finger foods can be made gluten-free and keep you full for hours if no other options are available.
- Vegan Cucumber Hummus Bites
- Gluten-Free Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
- Mini Caprese Skewers
- Easy Tomato Bruschetta
- Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs
- Gluten-Free Charcuterie
- Puppy Chow
- Strawberry Oatmeal Bars
- Gluten-Free Turkey Meatballs
- Jalapeno Poppers
Desserts
When it comes to baking, you can absolutely make regular recipes gluten-free. Start by swapping out regular all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose 1:1 flour. You can also use coconut flour, almond flour, and oat flour. Remember that the amount needed may vary when using flours other than all-purpose, so it’s important to test it beforehand. My ebook, Going Gluten-Free: Meal Planning, talks about making these swaps in more detail.
However, hundreds of gluten-free Fourth of July desserts are available that are perfect for cookouts. I’ve rounded up my top ten below.
- Homemade Brownie Bites
- Ice Cream Sandwiches
- {No Flour} Red, White & Blue Cookie Bars
- Fourth of July Fruit Pizza
- Strawberry Gluten-Free Dump Cake
- Gluten-Free Icebox Cake
- Gluten-Free American Flag Cookie Cake
- Fourth of July Chex Mix
- Easy Fourth of July Brownies
- Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Making Fourth of July Recipes Gluten-Free
Switching to a gluten-free diet can be overwhelming, especially when holidays like the Fourth of July roll around. In our house, it’s the biggest day of the year (maybe except Christmas). The good news? Making your favorite Independence Day recipes gluten-free doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In my eBook Going Gluten-Free: Handling The Holidays, we walk through learning to work the gluten-free lifestyle into all your favorite holiday celebrations. Download your copy today and get ready to enjoy the Fourth of July with your friends and family.
ABOUT ME
Hey There, I’m Kristin, a gluten-free nutrition coach helping gluten-free families adjust to their new lifestyle.