How to Throw a Chic-as-Hell Summer Barbecue

byPerrie Samotin Jul 03, 2015 at 11:00 am EDT

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While there’s nothing wrong with typical barbecue grub per se, there is something fairly predictable about hosting friends and family and only offering beer and burgers. This year, why not step your entertaining game with some seriously stylish—and shockingly simple—4th of July food ideas.

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From gourmet hot dogs and grilled shellfish to pink sangria-swirled margaritas, read on for 15 ways to make your summer cookout the chicest and—let’s be real—most instagram-worthy—event of the season.

MORE: 20 Cocktails That Won’t Bust Your Diet

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Looking to make your annual barbecue a little more ... stylish? Read on for 15 ways to chic up your cookout.

Make standard hot dogs a little more gourmet with these 24 chic topping ideas.

Skip the meat and grill up lobster instead. So summery!

How gorgeous are these sangria-swirled frozen margaritas?!

Forget greasy takeout fries—amp up your barbecue with these amazing Lebanese spiced French fries.

Throw fruit on the grill to use for cocktails, or serve with fresh cream for dessert.

The easiest and chicest side: grilled baby leeks with chervil and chives.

Red, white, and blue ice cubes and sticks
So chic! All you need for these are blueberries, raspberries, pomegranate seeds, and ice cube trays. Here's how to make them.

These cucumber lime margaritas use actual cucumber juice, but it's super-easy. Here's the recipe.

Wow your guests with Carribean style corn on the cob

Red, white, and blue smoothie pops? Yes, please! Get the recipe here.

This smoky chili chicken with barbecue corn, crushed avocado, and soft tortillas is way easier than it sounds.

Watermelon's in season, but instead of serving it as dessert, add feta, mint, red onion, and avocado for a savory side.

Buck tradition with these veggie burgers and cole slaw.

Impress guests with these lemon berry cheesecake trifle cups. Here's how to make it.

And just because it IS July 4th, why not behave like the raucous American you are and serve a tray of red, white, and blue Jell-o shots when the party really gets started?

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