7 Tips for an Inexpensive 4th of July Cookout

The good news is prices are settling back down after last year's spike in food costs. Whereas food rose an average 5% across the board during the 2008 summer, it has now deflated to more reasonable costs. But it still doesn't change the cha-ching price tag on feeding a group of people this Independence Day. The median price for a pound of hamburger patties, lettuce, cheese, tomato, and pickle is $11. If you are the lucky host this year, give more to your guests while staying within your budget using the tips below:

1. Buy food in bulk
Dust off the Sam's Club or Costco membership and buy your buns, burgers, pickles, tomatoes and chips in bulk. Buying cuts separately can double your cost according to Patrick Johnson, owner of D&R Supermarket. Opt for cheese, lettuce, onions and other sides at the regular grocery store to reduce waste.  

2. Let your guests bring something
You aren't a bad host by letting your friends pitch in. No one likes to show up empty handed, so rather than say "yeah, no thanks, I think we have everything," tell them to bring sodas or a side of beans--the more specific the better. They will enjoy contributing just as much as you do.  

3. Sale away
Most stores are vying for your dollar around popular cookout times. Right now Kroger is offering $.99 16 oz. packages of strawberries and a 12 slice packages of Kraft singles for $1.47. Head to Tom Thumb for $.99 Ball Park franks (16 oz.) and 93% lean ground meat for just $3.99. Check out weekly specials at your preferred store's website.  And don't forget about Walmart's price match guarantee!

4. Hit the dollar store and thrift shop for decorations
Display your delicious goodies on a mix of red, white and blue plates purchased from the thrift store--they are much cuter and more Martha Stewarty than the boring plastic variety. Clean old glass containers, fill with one inch of sand, and bury festive votives in the bottom. Wrap raffia around the top--but make sure nothing is directly above the lit candle to cause a burning hazard.  If you are at a loss for creativity, Walmart will come to the rescue with the dollar plates/cups/silverware/tablecloths aisle.

5. Select more economical food
Did you know that a big bowl of potato salad is cheaper than buying several bags of potato chips? And when it comes to meat, unless you are made of money opt for hamburgers and hot dogs rather than pork chops and steaks. Chicken breasts (when on sale) make great additions to the menu as well. Take advantage of seasonal fruit and buy juicy watermelon, pineapple, grapes, strawberries and peaches to make a delicious fruit salad rather than a store bought apple pie.

6. Make it unique
If store-bought buns are too bland for you, brush them with egg whites and sprinkle poppies, onions and sesame seeds to create a home-cooked taste or try a simple bun recipe. Make sure to do them a day in advance.  Offer your own lemonade by combining cubed watermelon, strawberries, sugar and lemon juice. You can also easily make a one-of-a-kind tablecloth by laying a white sheet (I found a simple twin sheet on sale for just $2.40) on the table and then cut two long strips of blue and red cloth to layer on top. Use pinking shears for a nice border.  

7. Offer healthy options
Serving nutritious cookout fare need not call for a spree through Whole Foods. Consider serving veggie burgers , turkey dogs, baked beans, salsa and skewered veggies instead of ground beef patties, potato chips and ranch dressing. For a sweet treat, angel food cake topped with fresh berries and light Cool Whip is a delicious way to end the cookout!