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Most of our 4th of July recipes can be made ahead, and stored in the fridge. Some, like the salads, can be made in parts, then thrown together.
Travelling Recipes: The simplest way is to store, transport and serve in the same containers. A cooler is handy, but a cardboard box lined with newspaper & old towels also works. Throw in frozen gel packs or a plastic container of ice cubes.
Don't try to make the entire menu - that's way too much work! If you're vegan, and you're sure you won't be able to eat any of the food at the cookout, make a couple of filling recipes so you know you'll get something to eat besides watermelon. If you're hosting, ask the other guests to contribute their favorites.
How can veg & non-veg share a grill? The contamination of veggie foods with meat is a big issue for vegans, which non-veg often don't get. To avoid conflict, discuss and set the grill rules well ahead of time. Everyone should understand and agree on a no-meat area set aside for veggie use.
If there are mosty non-veg at your cookout, with a lot of grilling going on, one option is to bring a small hibachi, where you can peacefully & safely grill your veggie burgers. Or use the hibachi for the non-veg grill, if it's a mostly veg party.
Every holiday has its traditional dishes, often meat or dairy based, and there's usually one guest (not always non-veg), who is offended that you aren’t eating the same as them. For help, read the Savvy Veg Report Veg and Non-Veg Eat Together.
Don't forget the extras: Lots of water, a big watermelon with a big knife to cut it, potato chips & cut-up raw veggies for dipping, burger fixings - mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and re-useable dishes & utensils for a green cookout.
Happy 4th of July, and a great summer!