The 4th of July is fast approaching. Chances are you either have a party to go to or are hosting one. The common denominator is that there are going to be mouths to feed. Finding it hard to think of a good idea to cook? Need a little inspiration? There are a thousand websites with recipes, but that’s not you. You’re in need of a jumping-off point for gathering together some simple and delicious 4th of July food. As someone far from chef status but loves to be a home cook, I get it, and 4th of July food is arguably the best of all the holidays – I’ll die on that hill, Thanksgiving lovers. Even if you’ve seen it before, we’re not looking to reinvent the wheel here, we’re here to help you gather your thoughts and put together a meal people will still be talking about come Labor Day. No long story about whatever those food bloggers are talking about, here are some great 4th of July food ideas to help you get the party started! Related read: 33 of the Best 4th of July Ideas for 2022 - Food, Cocktails, Decor, & More!

Five Basic 4th of July Food Ideas

Simplicity is best when it comes to 4th of July food. Some of it might take some time and prep, but at the end of the day, it should be just like America: bold, beautiful, and free. From the stovetop to the BBQ pit, we’ve got great ideas for 4th of July recipes for you to enjoy this year.

4th of July Appetizers to Get You Started

Wings

You can’t go wrong with this food classic and there's a lot that can be done here sauce-wise. It doesn’t matter if you smoke them, fry them, bake them, or grill them, wings are always a crowd-pleaser. The key to making your wings unforgettable? Use a unique sauce. Everyone’s had buffalo, but what about a tangy teriyaki? Fish sauce with lime? Pineapple and jalapeno? Get creative! Recipes:Sauced and tossed to perfection.

Salad

This isn’t about a healthy kick on the day dedicated to slow-cooked smoked meats. No, having a fresh item is simply a great way to have a bit of a palate cleanser in between some of the meatier options. If you really want to wow your friends, do something unexpected. Quick pickle some veggies a few days before, make a fresh fruit salad with mint, or switch things up with homemade croutons bursting with flavor. There's always the option of going completely off the salad rails and using the word lightly. Potato salad lovers, we’re looking at you, but we aren’t judging because it’s an absolute BBQ cookout staple and deserves a seat at the table just as much as the main course. Recipes:Salads you'll love! Suggested read: The Weirdest Recipes From WWII People Had to Make Because of Food Rationing

4th of July Desserts for Your Sweet Tooth

Pound Cake but Patriotic

Chances are, if you’re a cook, you aren’t a baker. Additionally, your local supermarket of choice probably has a decent pound cake available that won’t win the best baking competition but will get the job done when you’re looking for something sweet. However, if you really want to take it to the next level, simply make a strawberry reduction, blueberry reduction, and a dollop of whipped cream for a simple 4th of July dessert your guests will love. Recipes:Simple and sinful desserts.

4th of July Foods: Main Courses

Burgers and Hot Dogs

If you’re having a party to celebrate this country without the most American of foods, please just don’t invite your real friends because they will resent you. Of course, these foods are pretty basic, so if you’re serving a frozen patty with ketchup and a slice of processed cheese, they likely still won't think the best of you. Here’s how you elevate it easily; spring for quality ingredients. It’s a simple fix that can be the key to virtually any recipe, but when you’re talking about a delicious yet ultra-simple staple, this goes a long way. Use prime ground beef with an 80/20 mix for a juicier burger. Skip the regular franks and find a quality sausage filled with great flavors to put between the bun. Oh, and when offering condiments and toppings, be sure to stop by the international aisle, always offer a fruit and grab an extra hot sauce or two for a new, fun experience. Recipes:Americana between two buns.

Smoke Something (100% Legal)

Are you going to have to get up early? It’s likely. Will you need to dedicate 10 to 18 hours for a meal? If you’re doing it right, it’s possible. But will it be worth it? We both know the answer. If you want to save time, a beer can chicken can be done in about 4 hours and still provides mouthwatering smokey meat that is sure to be a crowd pleaser. However, if you want to go for something safe but delicious, pulled pork is time-consuming, but the way to go. No matter what you’re smoking, a great way to go is to inject it, and there are a million recipes for that. But you don’t even need to bother with those. A reduced salt broth is going to give you a moist finished product that imparts flavor, is simple, and doesn’t take away from the product. Recipe:Sauce? Dip? Dry? Either way, it’ll be the perfect 4th of July food. Read next: The 20 Best 4th of July Quotes To Get You Pumped for Independence Day