Holy guacamole, it’s Fourth of July season already? Time flies when you’re having fun (and eating delicious vegan food)! 🎆🌱
I’m beyond excited to share some mouthwatering vegan recipes that’ll make your Independence Day celebration a total blast. Trust me, these dishes are so good, even your carnivore friends will be begging for seconds!
I’ve teamed up with some of my favorite vegan chefs to bring you a mix of classic American fare with a plant-based twist, as well as some unique creations that’ll knock your stars-and-stripes socks off.
We’ve got everything from juicy “burgers” and creamy potato salad to refreshing drinks and decadent desserts. The best part? These recipes are flexible, so you can easily adjust them to your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
So fire up that grill, put on your favorite patriotic playlist, and let’s get cooking! Your taste buds (and party guests) will thank you later. 🇺🇸🍔🥗
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Let’s kick things off with a vegan twist on the all-American classic!
These portobello burgers are so meaty and satisfying, you might just forget you’re eating a mushroom.
To make them, marinate large portobello caps in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Grill them up until they’re nice and juicy, then stack them on a bun with all your favorite fixings.
I love to add some vegan cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and a dollop of vegan mayo.
Pro tip: Try grilling some onion slices alongside your mushrooms for extra flavor!
Loaded Vegan Potato Salad
Okay, let’s talk potato salad. It’s a Fourth of July staple, right?
But who says it has to be drowning in mayo and eggs? Not us!
This vegan version is just as creamy and flavorful as the traditional stuff, I promise.
Start with some boiled potatoes (I like to leave the skins on for extra nutrients), then mix in vegan mayo, mustard, diced celery, and red onion.
Add some chopped dill pickles for that classic tang, and sprinkle in some paprika for color and flavor.
Want to take it up a notch? Crumble some tempeh bacon on top. It’s chef’s kiss perfection!
BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Have you jumped on the jackfruit bandwagon yet? If not, these sliders are the perfect introduction!
Jackfruit has this amazing ability to mimic pulled pork when it’s cooked and shredded.
It’s pretty wild – the first time I tried it, I had to double-check that I hadn’t accidentally eaten meat!
To make these sliders, cook canned jackfruit with your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s tender and easily shredded.
Pile it onto mini buns and top with some crunchy coleslaw.
Your guests will be amazed that this “pulled pork” is actually a fruit!
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Is it really a Fourth of July cookout without corn on the cob? I think not!
This version takes it up a notch with a delicious herb butter that’ll have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Grill your corn until it’s got those beautiful char marks, then slather it with a mixture of vegan butter, chopped fresh herbs (I love a combo of parsley, chives, and dill), and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Sprinkle with some salt and pepper, and voila! You’ve got a side dish that’s both familiar and fancy.
Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad
Let’s add some patriotic pizzazz to our spread with this colorful fruit salad!
It’s super simple – just mix together some strawberries (red), blueberries (blue), and chunks of banana or apple (white).
To make it extra special, I like to add a light dressing made from lime juice and a touch of maple syrup.
Not only is this salad delicious and refreshing, but it also looks gorgeous on the table. Instagram-worthy food, anyone? 📸
Vegan Coleslaw
No BBQ is complete without a big bowl of creamy coleslaw, am I right?
This vegan version is just as good as the classic – maybe even better! (Don’t tell my grandma I said that.)
Shred some cabbage and carrots, then toss them with a dressing made from vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
Add in some celery seeds for that authentic coleslaw flavor.
The longer it sits, the better it gets, so feel free to make this one ahead of time!
Watermelon Mint Cooler
When the summer heat is cranking up, you need a refreshing drink to cool you down. Enter: the Watermelon Mint Cooler!
Blend up some fresh watermelon chunks with mint leaves, lime juice, and a splash of agave nectar if you like it sweeter.
Strain the mixture and serve over ice. For the adults, a splash of vodka turns this into a fantastic cocktail!
It’s like summer in a glass, and the perfect way to beat the heat while you’re manning the grill.
Vegan S’mores Dip
Who says vegans can’t enjoy s’mores? Not me, that’s for sure!
This s’mores dip is a fun twist on the campfire classic, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Layer vegan chocolate chips in a cast-iron skillet, top with vegan marshmallows (yes, they exist!), and pop it under the broiler until the marshmallows are golden and gooey.
Serve with graham crackers for dipping, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Independence Day”!
Red, White, and Blue Vegan Cheesecake Bars
These patriotic cheesecake bars are a showstopper, both in looks and taste!
The base is a simple vegan graham cracker crust.
The ‘cheesecake’ layer is made with soaked cashews, coconut cream, and a bit of lemon juice for that classic tangy flavor.
Swirl in some strawberry and blueberry puree to create a beautiful red, white, and blue pattern.
Chill until firm, then cut into bars. They’re creamy, fruity, and oh-so-festive!
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Last but definitely not least, let’s throw some veggies on the grill!
These colorful skewers are not only delicious but also a great way to use up whatever veggies you have in your fridge.
I like to use a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Brush them with a marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian herbs before grilling.
They’re perfect as a side dish, or you can serve them over rice or quinoa for a light main course.
And there you have it, folks! Ten mouthwatering vegan recipes that’ll make your Fourth of July celebration one for the books.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just dipping your toes into plant-based eating, these dishes are sure to impress.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on these recipes!
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some portobello burgers calling my name. Happy grilling, and happy Fourth of July! 🎇🌭🥗