Hello there!  Today I’m kicking off a mini series in honor of the Fourth of July (insert fireworks here; boom! pow! ooooo! ahhhh!).

Whether you are headed to a big party, the park for a picnic, or just having a small gathering at your own place, the four recipes I offer to you over the next few days will help make your Independence Day celebration delicious.  The idea is that you can make these ahead of time and at the start of the party.  They will keep and still be enjoyable as they come to room temperature so you too can enjoy the holiday!  Serve these four for a complete party or add to it crudites, chips and dips and a green salad and you have the ultimate (and low maintenance) spread.  Additionally, these recipes can easily be doubled or halved to make just the right amount for your shindig.