5 Independence Day Side Dishes

Every table needs a few of these five Independence Day side dishes to choose from. Add a few of these to your Fourth of July celebration or take one with you to a potluck. Remember, it's hot outside, so keep things light and cool.

1. Show off the red, white and blue with a fruit parfait. Lay out raspberries, strawberries (cut up), blueberries and blackberries. You can make the dish in advance by layering fruit and yogurt until you fill a bowl, or bring all of the ingredients and let guests make their own. For a little extra white, add whipped cream to the top.
2. Continue the color theme with a salad. Be sure to include cherry tomatoes and blue cheese crumbles as part of the dish. Need a little more color? Add a little food color on the ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra interest.
3. What could be more traditional for Independence Day than potato salad? Food doesn't have to be red, white or blue to fit into the party. It comes pre-made at the deli counter of most grocery stores, or make your own at home. Ingredients can be customized to your taste.
4. Corn on the cob is another traditional side dish. You can steam it or grill it. Be sure to slather is with butter before serving. Also, think about setting out a few things that guests can sprinkle on their corn including parmesan cheese, hot sauce or just salt and pepper.
5. Rolls or biscuits are versatile enough for any meal. You can use them alone as a side or make them more the focus of the meal. Add a little sliced meat and cheese and it can easily turn into the main dish. Be sure to lay out butter or jelly for this Independence Day side dish.