A Patriotic Grazing Table

One of the easiest hosting ideas ever, especially for events like 4th of July gatherings, is to have a themed grazing table and everyone gets to participate. Think old-fashioned potluck, but all the guests are on the same mission.

A patriotic smorgasbord is perfect for a large group and so much fun to put together. I got creative and put together a little one for us this week. Please note ... yes, there are more sweets than actual meal, but we didn't eat all that in one sitting. I promise!

Right now there are many companies making red, white, and blue versions of their products, and others are doing fun shapes and sizes. I used my own serving plate and a large cast iron pan to hold everything, and I couldn't resist picking up the iced tea glass with two dachshunds in patriotic top hats. Who could?

Between now and the 4th of July weekend, put on your thinking cap and look around the next time you're at the store. See what limited edition foods they have in patriotic themes, and - of course - for anything red, white, and blue. Here's a list to get you jumpstarted.

Red: 
Watermelon
Cherry tomatoes
Strawberries
Raspberries
Pomegranate arils

White:
Cheese
Popcorn
Crackers
Sandwich cookies

Blue: 
Blueberries
Blackberries
Grapes
Tortilla chips

Sweet:
Apple slices (red skin, white insides)
Fudge swirled with color
Marble cake
Trifle
Frosting and sprinkles
Yogurt-covered pretzels
Cupcakes
Ring-pops

Savory: 
Pepperoni slices
Prosciutto wrapped into roses
Mozzarella cubes and balls
Beef jerky
Macaroni and cheese
Chicken nuggets star-shaped
Tater tots star-shaped

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