4th of July Recipes With 5 Ingredients or Less

Some days you just don’t want to dig through a mile-long ingredient list. That’s why we put together these easy, fresh, and totally crowd-pleasing 4th of July recipes that only need 5 ingredients each. From a no-fuss street corn salad to a sweet or savory scone base you can riff on all year long, these are the kind of recipes that make you look like you have it all together (even if you totally don’t). Bonus? They’re perfect for summer snacking, entertaining, or just feeding your people with less stress.

🇺🇸 Blueberry Caprese Skewers

Ingredients:

• Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh basil leaves
• Strawberries or watermelon cubes (optional, for color)
• Balsamic vinaigrette (for dipping or drizzling)
• Small skewers or toothpicks

Instructions:

1. On each skewer or toothpick, layer a blueberry, a basil leaf (folded if large), and a mozzarella ball.
2. Optional: Add a cube of strawberry or watermelon to the end for a pop of red color.
3. Arrange on a platter and chill until ready to serve.
4. Serve with balsamic vinaigrette on the side for dipping, or lightly drizzle over the top just before serving.

Tip: You can also reduce balsamic vinegar into a glaze for a thicker, sweeter finish.

🌽 Elote Street Corn Salad

Ingredients:

• 3 cups grilled corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 ½ teaspoons taco seasoning (or to taste)
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, Greek yogurt, and taco seasoning. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Fold in the cotija cheese and cilantro, if using.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more taco seasoning or a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with extra cheese and cilantro if you like.

Tip: This pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or grilled proteins — and it’s even better the next day!

✨ 5-Ingredient Base Scone Recipe (Sweet or Savory)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups self-rising flour
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
• 1/2 cup milk (plus a little extra for brushing)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use your fingertips to rub it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour into the flour mixture and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat or roll to about ¾-inch thick. Cut into rounds or wedges.
5. Place on baking sheet and brush tops with a little milk. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden.

🍓 For Sweet Scones:

• Add 1–2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• Mix in: chocolate chips, blueberries, chopped strawberries, or dried fruit
• Top with: a dusting of sugar or a light glaze after baking

🧀 For Savory Scones:

• Mix in: shredded cheddar, herbs (like chives, thyme), crumbled bacon, or sun-dried tomatoes
• Top with: flaky sea salt or extra cheese before baking

From the bright burst of blueberries and basil to the smoky tang of street corn and the endless scone possibilities, each of these 5-ingredient recipes brings something fresh to the table. Keep them on hand for easy entertaining, simple sides, or a cozy baking moment. Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor — and all totally doable, even on your busiest day.