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Independence Day is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family and fire up the grill! Sure, hot dogs and hamburgers are always delicious, but we think they’re a little boring. Luckily we’ve got some ideas to spice up your patriotic festivities. Check out our favorite summertime recipes featuring kefir below.
Seamus Mullen’s Grilled Chicken Skewers with Kefir Cucumber Raita
![](https://lifewaykefir.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Seamus_chicken_skewer_kefir_raita_blog.png)
Chef Seamus Mullen has some secrets. Check out the video below at 3:00 to see him dish about why he loves marinating chicken in kefir! Recipe here.
Ancho Chili Avocado Kefir Dip
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This spicy take on guacamole is the perfect dip for fresh summer veggies while you’re waiting for the grill to heat up. Recipe here.
Cucumber Kefir Raita
![](https://lifewaykefir.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Kefir-Raita-590x390.png)
Our cucumber kefir raita is the light and refreshing dressing that you need for your grilled vegetables and mixed green salads. Recipe here.
Rigatoni with Kefir Avocado Pesto and Spring Vegetables
![Lifeway Kefir, Rigatoni with Kefir Avocado Pesto and Spring Vegetables](https://lifewaykefir.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Avocado_Pesto_Rigatoni_blog.png)
Nothing like a pasta salad to keep things fresh and light! This simple dish is the perfect side to anything you’ve got grilling. Recipe here.
No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake
![Lifeway Kefir, Blueberry Farmer Cheese Cheesecake](https://lifewaykefir.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/blueberry_cheesecake_jar_blog.png)
Keep things light and fruity with this summery spin on a no-bake cheesecake. Try topping each jar with strawberries or raspberries for a patriotic parfait! Recipe here.