Juneteenth is a time to reflect, spend time with family and of course enjoy some good food!
Juneteenth is a holiday celebrating the emancipation of African Americans from slavery in the United States.
The name Juneteenth comes from combining “June” and “nineteenth.”
Photo: Andrea Mathis
West Philadelphia is said to have the largest celebration, typically hosting about 25,000 people.
Food plays an integral part in Juneteenth, as certain foods hold strong significance.
How to Celebrate Juneteenth
Juneteenth is a joyous time to spend with family and friends.
Andrea Mathis
It’s also a great time to reflect and educate others about this holiday.
Most people like to celebrate this holiday by having family cookouts and attending events to honor African American history.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, my family likes to have a Juneteenth cookout.
Andrea Mathis
Every year, I venture to keep our cookout menu traditional but still exciting.
What’s on the Menu?
Grilled Chicken with Citrus-BBQ Glaze
The key to a great cookout is choosing a great entree!
Andrea Mathis
Easy Pineapple Coleslaw
The second most important component to a cookout is the side items.
This pineapple coleslaw is a fresh take on the traditional coleslaw recipe.
It contains those familiar savory flavors, and a touch of sweetness thanks to the pineapple.
Andrea Mathis
It’s basted with a spicy butter blend and grilled to perfection in about 20 minutes.
For a fun serving idea, tie back the husks with a little piece of twine.
This will allow your guests to conveniently pick up the corn by the husks and enjoy!
Andrea Mathis
Marinated Cucumber & Tomato Salad
Next on the menu is this marinated cucumber and tomato salad.
It’s the perfect summer salad.
It’s both sweet and tangy and contains the perfect combination of flavors.
Cucumbers are so versatile and inexpensive, especially during the summer months.
They have a very high water content which is a great way to stay hydrated during those hot months.
Banana pudding is always a great dessert option for any outdoor gathering.
It’s super easy to make and requires zero cooking.
Plus, the individual portions are a fun way to serve it.
I like to serve mine in small Mason jars or martini glasses.
Now that our Juneteenth menu is complete, it’s time to sit back, relax and dig in!
