Red, white, and barbecue! Chef Emily Susman sat down with ET to share her 4th of July party essentials while celebrating the launch of her new Emma Claire’s Kitchen [Not So] Simple Spices designed to make summer dishes uncomplicated. 

“The Fiesta Blend, Zen Blend, and Mediterranean Blend are perfect for summer BBQs and 4th of July celebrations because they take the guesswork out of seasoning,” she notes.

“Each one was created to make cooking flavorful, easy, and approachable using just one spice. All the blends start with my original mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dry mustard, and are elevated with clean ingredients,” Susman continues.

Once you have your seasoning, you can enliven everything from roasted veggies, grilled meats, soups, salads, and snacks.

“Sprinkle the Fiesta Blend over grilled corn with butter and lime for an instant flavor bomb or mix into ground beef or turkey for burgers with a Tex-Mex twist. Use the Zen Blend for Asian-inspired BBQ sides like grilled bok choy, eggplant, or zucchini. The Mediterranean Blend is incredible on lamb or beef kabobs, grilled pita bread, or even tossed into a fresh cucumber-tomato salad with olive oil and lemon. Finally, my secret to the perfect hamburger and tater tots is the Original Blend,” the cook shares.

After solidifying your menu options, Susman recommends incorporating special touches to your bash.

“For the 4th of July, I love blending casual comfort with elevated details. … Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a dressed-up dinner party, create an atmosphere that feels warm, welcoming, and easy to enjoy. It doesn’t have to be over the top to be memorable. … String lights, throw blankets, citronella candles in pretty jars to keep it stylish and mosquito-free, simple floral arrangements, and a great playlist go a long way,” she explains.

The Get Stuffed author also suggests setting up DIY stations to keep guests entertained throughout the evening.

“People love to graze and serve themselves. … It keeps things flowing and takes pressure off you to serve everyone. Create a spice your-own snack station where guests can mix their own seasoning combos onto bowls of plain popcorn or kettle chips, or set up an elevated condiment tray beyond ketchup and mustard and include small bowls of herbed aioli, spicy mayo, chimichurri, or tzatziki.”

And to get into the spirit of the holiday, a cute colored theme will do the trick.

“A DIY drink station with festive red, white, and blue garnishes including fresh berries, herbs, and citrus keeps things interactive and fun, or mini berry trifles in mason jars, red velvet cupcakes with sparklers, or ice cream sandwiches rolled in festive sprinkles are a playful and fun way to end the night,” the entrepreneur says.

Regardless of what you choose, the goal is to make attendees feel at home.

“The best hosts make their guests feel seen, relaxed, and well-fed. … Entertaining should feel like a warm hug. If people leave smiling, full, and inspired to cook, then you’ve truly captured the magic,” she says.

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