The typical foods featured in Fourth of July festivities include barbecue dishes and picnic spreads, with finger foods, salads, dips and soups.
Here are some ideas for appetizers and simple desserts for the Independence Day celebrations, courtesy of USDA SNAP-Ed Connection and its MyPlate Kitchen program which developed a 4th of July summer menu.
Appetizers for Fourth of July
Chilled Cantaloupe Soup
This refreshing starter is great for a day when it’s too hot to cook.

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Ingredients for 6 servings:
- 1 cantaloupe (peeled, seeded and cubed)
- 2 cups of orange juice
- 1