There’s something magical about gathering outdoors—bare feet in the grass, laughter drifting through the air, and a table full of fresh, feel-good food. For Melissa, hosting a Fourth of July cookout is about more than fireworks and flag cakes—it’s a chance to slow down, connect, and savor the simple joy of summer.
This year, she’s putting a fresh spin on the classic cookout with a vegetarian menu that’s bursting with color, flavor, and a whole lot of love. It's a spread that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful.
We know a lot of people LOVE to fire up the grill, so we made sure these selections pair well with good old-fashioned BBQ, too!

And what’s a celebration without a little style? Melissa set the scene with our brand-new Magnolia collection—a red, white, and blue tribute to summer’s most timeless moments.
Get the Recipes
Here are Melissa’s go-to recipes for a celebration that’s festive, fresh, and entirely meat-free! From our prairie to yours—Happy Fourth!
Watermelon Tomato Salad with Feta & Mint

Juicy watermelon and sun-ripened tomatoes meet salty feta and cooling mint for the most refreshing bite of summer. Sweet, savory, and made for hot days.
Green Bean & Celery Salad with Tofu & Chili Crisp

Crisp, snappy veggies tossed with golden tofu and a bold chili crisp dressing—this one brings the heat and the crunch.
Phyllo Pie with Spinach, Feta, & Green Onion

Flaky, golden layers wrapped around a savory, herb-laced filling—like spanakopita’s laid-back cousin, perfect warm or room temp.
Cathead Biscuits

Big, tender, flaky clouds of biscuit goodness. Tear one open, slather with green onion butter, and serve alongside just about anything.
Blueberry Galette with Chamomile Whipped Cream

Rustic, juicy, and just sweet enough—this open-faced pie sings with summer blueberries and dreamy chamomile cream on top.
Fresh Nectarine Iced Tea

Sun-steeped tea meets ripe nectarine for a perfectly peachy sip—cool, floral, and made to be enjoyed in the breeze.
6 comments
LOVE all the recipes, photos and the brand! I’d like to purchase the overalls that Melissa is wearing but i don’t see them on the website. Are they available?
Lovely spread ❤️…looks wonderful 😍
I will definitely try these recipes! It’s so nice to have good meatless dishes to serve guests. Thank you so much!
Love all your recipe but maybe should add PINTEREST on your recipe
All of these recipes look scrumptious! I absolutely LOVE Modern Prairie! Thank you to everyone on board in creating such a special business and site!
And Melissa, I really enjoy your daily inspirations!
Have an amazing day!
Jenn