CNN Food Central

What's the Fourth without food? Plan a picnic-perfect lunch with a basketful of recipes from Digital Chef. Share your own summer memories and favorite recipes.
	Raspberry Flavored Iced Tea: For a full-flavored drink, this recipe calls for very strong tea, since ice can dilute the mixture.

Firecracker Shrimp:
These shrimp are easy to make ahead of time and can be served cold for an outdoor party or picnic.

Watermelon and Red Onion Salad:
For a refreshing combination of flavors, tangy onions are mixed with sweet watermelon and peppery watercress and tossed with a light vinaigrette.

All-American Pan Fried Chicken:
This fried chicken is finished in the oven to help prevent the batter coating from becoming greasy. The finished chicken can be refrigerated and served cold.

Star-Spangled Angel Food Cake:
This light and moist cake is complemented by fresh berries and a sweetened sour cream topping. For picnic, pack topping separately.

Lunch lessons:
Picnic packing and safety tips - Keep your food crisp and cold in warmer weather.

Red, white and blue reading:
From roadside fare to homemade family dinners, cookbooks capture regional favorites

Message board:
What are your fondest Independence Day food memories? What dishes added spark to summer?

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