20 Red, White, and Blue Patriotic Foods to Celebrate Dad

Father’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate Dad, and what better way to do that than with a festive, patriotic feast? 

But sometimes, we get stuck in a rut with the same old Father’s Day meals. We want to make it special and memorable, but we’re short on creative ideas. 

It can be a challenge to find dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing, especially when trying to incorporate a theme.

The solution? Let’s add a splash of red, white, and blue to our Father’s Day celebrations! 

I’ve put together 20 recipes that are not only delicious but also beautifully incorporate these patriotic colors. 

Get ready to surprise Dad with a festive and flavorful tribute he’ll never forget!

Here are three quick and easy red, white, and blue recipe ideas to get you started:

• Red, White, and Blue Fruit Skewers: A refreshing and healthy appetizer or side dish that’s easy to assemble.
• Patriotic Potato Salad: A classic cookout staple with a colorful twist.
• Triple Berry Trifle: A show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Let’s explore these and many more red, white, and blue recipes to make your Father’s Day celebration extra special!

1. Red, White, and Blue Fruit Skewers

These fruit skewers are a simple, refreshing, and healthy way to start any Father’s Day celebration. Thread strawberries, blueberries, and chunks of white melon (like cantaloupe or honeydew) onto skewers for a colorful and patriotic treat. You can even add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for extra flavor.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Best for: The health-conscious dad

2. Patriotic Potato Salad

This classic cookout side dish gets a festive makeover with the addition of red potatoes, a creamy white dressing, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The vibrant colors make it a perfect addition to any Father’s Day spread. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a touch of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of paprika.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serving Size: 6-8 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who loves classic cookout food

3. Triple Berry Trifle

This dessert is a showstopper! Layers of red berries (strawberries, raspberries), white cake or pudding, and blueberries create a beautiful and delicious treat. Serve it in a clear trifle dish to showcase the vibrant colors. A splash of Grand Marnier or other liqueur (optional) can add a sophisticated touch.

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 8-10 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad with a sweet tooth

4. Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad

This colorful twist on a classic Italian salad is both refreshing and elegant. Alternate slices of red tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on a platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a simple yet flavorful dish.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 4-6 servings
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Best for: The dad who appreciates fresh flavors

5. Patriotic Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for a Father’s Day cookout. Use tri-color rotini pasta (red, white, and blue) and toss it with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, white beans, and red onion. A light vinaigrette dressing ties it all together.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Serving Size: 6-8 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who loves pasta

6. Firecracker Hot Dogs

These festive hot dogs are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Cut slits into the hot dogs before grilling or cooking them to create a “firecracker” effect. Serve them on white buns with red and blue toppings like ketchup, mustard, and relish.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Best for: The dad who loves classic American food

7. Red, White, and Blue Sliders

These mini burgers are perfect for a Father’s Day cookout. Use red onion jam, white cheddar cheese, and a vibrant blue cheese to create a colorful and flavorful slider. Serve them on small white buns for a truly patriotic presentation.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Best for: The dad who loves burgers

8. Patriotic Pizza

Turn pizza night into a Father’s Day celebration with a red, white, and blue pizza! Use a classic pizza dough and top it with red tomato sauce, white mozzarella cheese, and blue cheese crumbles. You can even arrange the toppings in a star pattern for an extra festive touch.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who loves pizza

9. Stars and Stripes Fruit Tart

This elegant dessert is a showstopper. A buttery crust is filled with a creamy white filling (like vanilla pastry cream or mascarpone) and topped with red strawberries and blue blueberries arranged in a star and stripe pattern.

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Serving Size: 8-10 servings
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Best for: The dad with a sweet tooth

10. Red, White, and Blue Sangria

This festive cocktail is perfect for a Father’s Day gathering. Combine red wine, white rum, and blue curaçao with chopped red berries, white peaches, and blueberries. Let it chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1-2 hours (chilling time)
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who enjoys a refreshing cocktail

11. Patriotic Parfaits

These layered parfaits are a simple and delicious dessert that’s easy to customize. Layer red berries (like raspberries or strawberries), white yogurt or whipped cream, and blue blueberries in clear glasses or jars.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Best for: The dad who loves light desserts

12. Red, White, and Blue Brownies

These fudgy brownies get a patriotic twist with the addition of red, white, and blue sprinkles or candies. You can even swirl in red and blue frosting for a more vibrant look.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who loves chocolate

13. Firecracker Popsicles

These homemade popsicles are a refreshing treat for a hot Father’s Day. Layer red, white, and blue fruit juices or purees in popsicle molds and freeze until solid.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (freezing time)
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Best for: The dad who enjoys frozen treats

14. Red, White, and Blue Layer Cake

This show-stopping cake is perfect for a Father’s Day celebration. Bake three separate cake layers (red, white, and blue) and frost them with a creamy white frosting. Decorate with fresh berries or patriotic sprinkles.

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Serving Size: 10-12
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Best for: The dad who loves cake

15. Patriotic Pancakes

Start Father’s Day with a festive breakfast! Make your favorite pancake batter and add red and blue food coloring to create red and blue pancakes. Serve them stacked with whipped cream and fresh berries.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Serving Size: 4-6
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who loves breakfast

16. Red, White, and Blue Quesadillas

These quesadillas are a fun and easy lunch or dinner option. Use white tortillas and fill them with red salsa, white cheese, and either shredded chicken or black beans. Serve with a side of blue corn tortilla chips.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Serving Size: 4-6
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who loves Mexican food

17. Patriotic Pinwheels

These colorful pinwheels are a great appetizer or snack. Spread a layer of cream cheese or hummus on a tortilla, then top with layers of red bell peppers, white cheese, and spinach. Roll up tightly and slice into pinwheels.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The dad who likes easy appetizers

18. Red, White, and Blue Salad with Grilled Chicken

This hearty and healthy salad is perfect for a Father’s Day lunch or light dinner. Combine grilled chicken with red tomatoes, white cannellini beans, and blue cheese on a bed of mixed greens. A light vinaigrette dressing completes the dish.

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serving Size: 4-6
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best for: The health-conscious dad

19. Patriotic Rice Krispie Treats

These classic treats get a festive makeover with red, white, and blue sprinkles or melted chocolate. Cut them into star shapes for an extra touch.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Best for: The dad who loves classic treats

20. Red, White, and Blue Jello Cups

These layered Jello cups are a fun and easy dessert that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Prepare red, white, and blue Jello and layer them in clear cups. Top with whipped cream and sprinkles for an extra festive touch.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours (setting time)
• Serving Size: varies
• Difficulty: Beginner
• Best for: The dad who is a kid at heart

FAQ Section

Q: What if Dad has dietary restrictions?

A: Many of these recipes can be adapted to fit different dietary needs. For example, you can use gluten-free bread or tortillas, vegetarian fillings, or dairy-free cheese and yogurt.

Q: How can I make these recipes ahead of time?

A: Many components of these dishes can be prepped ahead of time. You can chop vegetables, make dips, or assemble skewers in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Desserts like trifles and parfaits can also be assembled ahead of time.

Q: What are some good drinks to serve with these dishes?

A: Consider serving a variety of drinks, including lemonade, iced tea, beer, and wine. You can also offer a signature cocktail or mocktail with a red, white, and blue theme.

Menu Planning Tips

• Patriotic Brunch: Red, White, and Blue Fruit Skewers, Patriotic Pancakes, Red, White, and Blue Parfaits
• Festive Lunch/Light Dinner: Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad, Patriotic Pasta Salad, Red, White, and Blue Quesadillas, Patriotic Salad with Grilled Chicken
• All-American BBQ: Firecracker Hot Dogs, Red, White, and Blue Sliders, Patriotic Potato Salad, Red, White, and Blue Brownies
• Red, White, and Blue Dessert Bar: Triple Berry Trifle, Stars and Stripes Fruit Tart, Firecracker Popsicles, Red, White, and Blue Jello Cups, Patriotic Rice Krispie Treats

Last-Minute Options

• Store-bought fruit salad with red, white, and blue fruits
• Red, white, and blue-themed ice cream or popsicles
• Quickly assembled red, white, and blue skewers or appetizers
• Decorated store-bought cake or cupcakes