Welcome to Come On Over, Food52's newsletter about hosting life's big and little moments. This week, our editors are sharing their blueprint for a festive
Fourth of July gathering.
With the Fourth just days away, we're thinking about all the elements of a great summer cookout: a grill full of hot dogs, a cooler packed with drinks, and a table that feels festive without requiring hours of setup. Whether you're hosting a backyard bbq or gathering friends for a casual dinner indoors, these are the recipes, shortcuts, and styling ideas we'd borrow for the holiday weekend.
We've tested plenty of ways to cook hot dogs over the years, but the real magic is in the toppings. While we recently tried a Chesapeake Bay-style version topped with crab, these eight creative riffs are just as worthy of a spot at your cookout.
As the sun goes down, a little ambient lighting goes a long way. Mix red, white, and blue tapers with a few rechargeable wick lanterns for a table that glows well into the evening.
One of our favorite summer party tricks is turning a watermelon into a punch bowl. Simply slice off the top, blend the fruit with an immersion blender, add a few margarita ingredients, and serve over ice in these fitting outdoor tumblers.
Don’t have the space for a large outdoor grill, try out this portable charcoal grill. It’s perfect for patios, rooftops, or use it as a second cooking zone for dishes like chicken satay skewers or grilled vegetables.
