Martie Knows Parties: 4th of July Recipes: My BBQ Rib Rub, Mixed Grill with Cilantro Pesto, and more

Looking for party ideas for your gang this 4th of July? Me too! I'm so busy this week that I'm just now making plans. If you're still looking for ideas for your get-together, here are some of my past and present favorites that will help you make your holiday entertaining a breeze!

THE FOOD

Put some of these easy salads and grilling all-stars on your Fourth of July menu.... yum!

START WITH FRESH TOMATOES

This Grilled Flatbreads with Tomato and Basil recipe from MyRecipes.comlooks wonderful and easy. Try it as a spin on a typical Caprese Salad or try one of my easy tomato salad recipes below:

TIPSY CHERRY TOMATOES

CAPRESE KABOBS

MINI BLT BITES

READ MY BLOG POST ON EASY PARTY STARTERS FOR MORE TOMATO RECIPES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR SUMMER ENTERTAINING!

FROM THE GRILL

I'm going to try this new recipe from MyRecipes.com this 4th of July: Mixed Grill with Cilantro Pestosince I'm always looking for something new to add to my grilling repertoire. But, you can't go wrong with the classics either. Here's a rerun of some of my own favorite grilling recipes:

BEER CAN CHICKEN

BBQ RIB RUB

GRILLED SHRIMP & SCALLOPS

CEDAR PLANKED SALMON

Will post some drinks, desserts, and decorating tips next.... stay tuned!