Hi Reader,

Gosh, where has the time gone? I can't believe the 4th of July holiday is already upon us! ☀️

If you're headed to a barbecue this weekend, you might be wondering what to make. Whether you're hosting or attending, it's not always easy to find a plant-based main that holds up well on the grill!

For me, if I'm going to someone else's house where they will be grilling meat, I usually like to prep something in advance, then portion it out into foil pouches to reheat on the grill.

I've included a few of our favorite summer cookout dishes below, from mains to dessert! ☀️ Plus more "survival tips" below the recipes.

👉 Oh! I also have a NEW Tofu Burger recipe coming your way tomorrow. It's made with extra-firm tofu, lots of savory chicken-style seasonings, and either chickpea flour (for gluten-free) or vital wheat gluten. Stay tuned.

4th of July Weekend

👉 Tempeh Burgers​

​Chickpea Burgers​

​Parsley-Dill Pesto Pasta Salad​

​Mediterranean Cucumber Salad​

​Dill Pickle Pasta Salad​

​Chilled Green Bean Salad​

​Loaded Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins​

​V/GF Peanut Butter Cookies​

​No-Cook Vegan Banana Pudding​

​V/GF Mixed Berry Tart​

More tips:

• Offer to bring vegan options that are appealing to everyone, like pasta salad or a colorful veggie platter with hummus.
• Don't be afraid to contact the host in advance to ask questions about the dishes they're planning and what others are bringing.
• Since hot dog and hamburger buns sometimes contain hidden dairy and egg, offer to bring the buns yourself. Or if you don't want to supply them for the whole party, bring one pack for yourself and anyone else who might need them.
• When reheating seitan, whether it's homemade vegan sausages or burger patties made with vital wheat gluten, it's a good idea to wrap it tightly with foil so it doesn't dry out.
• Don't limit yourself to the grill! A slow cooker is a convenient way transport all kinds of dishes and opens up options like BBQ Soy Curl Sandwiches , Sloppy Joes, and Vegan Mac & Cheese!
• Simple tofu and veggie skewers are always an easy and delicious option.

Don't feel like cooking? I hear you! Go easy on yourself and pick up a package of veggie burgers or sausages at the store. Focus your energy on having fun.

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I hope you enjoy the recipes and have a wonderful weekend. 💚 ~Lori

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