25 Throwback 4th of July Dishes That’ll Have You Feeling Nostalgic

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For 4th of July this year, take a trip down memory lane. These 25 throwback recipes are sure to evoke fond memories and the joy of sharing delicious food with friends and family!

Seven layer salad in a bowl.
7 Layer Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Layered Taco Dip

A layered dip arranged to look like the American flag, made with blue tortilla chips, cheese stars, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes. Two American flag-themed napkins are placed nearby.
Layered Taco Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This layered taco dip is a classic recipe that brings a burst of Tex-Mex flavors to your 4th of July celebration. With its creamy and savory layers, this dip is easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with your favorite chips, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Layered Taco Dip

Amish Potato Salad

Creamy potato salad with eggs and mayonnaise.
Amish Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish potato salad is a time-honored dish that has been a staple at 4th of July cookouts for generations. The combination of creamy potatoes, tangy mustard, and a hint of sweetness from the sugar evokes memories of old-fashioned summer celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Blueberry Peach Crisp

Blueberry peach crisp on a white plate.
Blueberry Peach Crisp. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This blueberry peach crisp is an old-fashioned dessert that captures the essence of summer flavors, making it a perfect addition to your 4th of July menu. The combination of juicy peaches and plump blueberries, topped with a buttery oat crumble, creates a simple yet irresistible treat.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Peach Crisp

Backyard S’mores Bar

Backyard S’mores Bar. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

S’mores have been a beloved tradition at 4th of July gatherings for decades, and setting up a backyard s’mores bar is a fun and interactive way to enjoy this classic treat. This old-fashioned dessert station will evoking memories of summer campfires and the nostalgia of bygone celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Backyard S’mores Bar

Broccoli Crunch Salad

A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.
Broccoli Crunch Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Broccoli crunch salad is a timeless side dish that has been a mainstay at 4th of July picnics for years. The combination of crisp raw broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and savory bacon brings back the old-fashioned flavors of summer.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Lime Jello Salad

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lime Jello Salad is a nostalgic green dessert that has been a beloved fixture at 4th of July celebrations for generations. This old-fashioned favorite brings a fun and festive touch to any holiday table or summer picnic, reminding us of the simple pleasures.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Colorful Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with red and blue dyed egg whites.
Colorful Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These red, white, and blue deviled eggs are a playful twist on a classic recipe, perfect for adding a patriotic flair to your 4th of July cookout. This easy-to-make appetizer pays tribute to the traditional flavors of deviled eggs while incorporating the colors of the American flag.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Deviled Eggs

7 Layer Salad Recipe

Seven layer salad in a bowl.
7 Layer Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This traditional 7 layer salad is a time-honored recipe that has been a staple at 4th of July barbecues, potlucks, and church suppers for generations. The elegant presentation and classic combination of layers make this side dish a crowd-pleaser, evoking memories of old-fashioned summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad Recipe

Apricot Upside Down Cake

A Apricot Upside Down Cake on a white plate.
Apricot Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This apricot upside down cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert that brings back warm memories of old-fashioned 4th of July celebrations in grandma’s kitchen. The gooey caramelized apricot topping and tender, buttery cake create a comforting and nostalgic treat.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Upside Down Cake

Italian Ricotta Cookies

Ricotta Cookies decorated with Christmas sprinkles.
Italian Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Italian ricotta cookies are a traditional treat that has been enjoyed at 4th of July gatherings for generations. These tender, cake-like cookies are a beloved holiday favorite, with their classic flavors and textures evoking memories of old-fashioned family celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Italian Ricotta Cookies

Watergate Salad

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Watergate salad is a classic dessert that has been a staple at 4th of July celebrations for decades. This effortless, make-ahead dish features a creamy and refreshing combination of flavors that pays homage to the nostalgic tastes of old-fashioned summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Loaf of cinnamon bread sliced to show the ribbon of cinnamon inside.
Amish Cinnamon Bread. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish cinnamon bread is a sweet and comforting treat that captures the essence of old-fashioned 4th of July baking. This quick and easy bread fills your home with the warm aroma of cinnamon, evoking the joy of sharing homemade goodies with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Bread

Texas Caviar Dip

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Texas Caviar is a classic recipe that has been a favorite at 4th of July gatherings for years. This fresh and colorful salad combines black-eyed peas, beans, and vegetables in a sweet and tangy dip, paying tribute to the hearty and flavorful dishes of old-fashioned summer celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip

Homemade Lemonade

Glass of lemonade on a table with a bowl of lemons in the background and pitcher on the side.
Homemade Lemonade. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This homemade lemonade is a refreshing and timeless beverage that captures the essence of old-fashioned 4th of July gatherings. With just three simple ingredients, you can enjoy the taste of summer in every sip.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lemonade

Amish Apple Fritter Bread

A slice of apple cinnamon bread on a cutting board.
Amish Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish Apple Fritter Bread is a comforting and nostalgic recipe that brings the flavors of old-fashioned 4th of July baking to your home. This soft, cinnamon-spiced apple bread, swirled with a sweet glaze, creates a cozy and delicious treat.
Get the Recipe: Amish Apple Fritter Bread

Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Blueberry upside down cake on a white plate before slicing.
Blueberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Blueberry Upside Down Cake is a delightful summer dessert that captures the essence of old-fashioned 4th of July celebrations. With its juicy blueberries and moist cake, this classic recipe evokes memories of sharing homemade treats with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Pea Salad

Pea salad in a blue bowl.
Pea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Vintage pea salad is a creamy, tangy, and sweet side dish that has been a mainstay at 4th of July cookouts for generations. This perfect make-ahead salad pays tribute to the classic flavors and simplicity of old-fashioned celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Cherry Salad

Cherry fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.
Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Beat the summer heat with a classic Cherry Salad, also known as Pink Fluff, which has been a beloved staple at 4th of July potlucks and cookouts for decades. This refreshing salad requires just 6 ingredients and takes only 5 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy addition to your old-fashioned summer menu.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Mandarin Orange Pie

A slice of mandarin orange pie with creamy filling topped with a cherry and served on a white plate.
Mandarin Orange Pie. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This cool and refreshing Mandarin Orange Pie is a perfect no-bake dessert for beating the summer heat. Featuring juicy mandarin oranges and fluffy whipped cream, this light and easy recipe evokes memories of simpler times and the joy of sharing classic flavors with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Mandarin Orange Pie

Lunch Lady Brownies

A pile of neatly cut chocolate-frosted brownies is displayed on a white surface.
Lunch Lady Brownies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Lunch Lady Brownies are a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of old-fashioned 4th of July bake sales and school celebrations. This easy recipe allows you to recreate the classic taste in your own kitchen, perfect for a quick dessert.
Get the Recipe: Lunch Lady Brownies

Salt Potatoes

Salt Potatoes drizzled with melted butter.
Salt Potatoes. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Salt Potatoes are a time-honored staple recipe in upstate New York, often enjoyed at 4th of July barbecues and summer gatherings. These creamy, buttery, bite-sized potatoes are simple to make and delicious, especially when served with a generous helping of butter.
Get the Recipe: Salt Potatoes

Blueberry Cobbler

Blueberry cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Blueberry Cobbler. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Southern blueberry cobbler, with its flaky biscuit topping and juicy blueberries peeking through the crust, is a classic dessert that captures the essence of old-fashioned 4th of July gatherings. Each bite delivers a burst of berry flavors and a nostalgic taste of summer and the comfort of shared traditions.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cobbler

Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions

Grilled potatoes topped with cheese and bacon in a foil pan.
Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These cheesy grilled potatoes and onions are a perfect side dish for your 4th of July cookout, reminiscent of the classic flavors enjoyed at old-fashioned summer barbecues. Topped with barbecue sauce, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, it has been a staple of American celebrations for generations.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions

Orange Fluff Salad

Orange fluff salad in a bowl.
Orange Fluff Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Orange Fluff Salad, made with oranges, cottage cheese, Jello, and Cool Whip, is a vintage recipe that brings a creamsicle-inspired twist to your 4th of July spread. This light and refreshing side dish evokes memories of old-fashioned summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Orange Fluff Salad

Amish Macaroni Salad

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish macaroni salad is a perfect creamy and slightly sweet side dish for your 4th of July gatherings, reminiscent of the classic flavors enjoyed at old-fashioned summer picnics and potlucks. With its simple yet delicious ingredients, this crowd-pleasing salad has been a staple of American celebrations for generations.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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