Fire Up the Flavor: Fourth of July Picnic & Grilling Roundup with Select Brands

The Fourth of July is the perfect time to gather your favorite people, head outside, and enjoy a meal that’s as festive as the fireworks. This summer celebration calls for good food, easy prep, and reliable kitchen tools that help you pull it all off without a hitch. From savory kabobs to sweet desserts, Select Brands has your back with a collection of appliances built for holiday entertaining.

A Quick Look Back: The History of the Fourth of July

Independence Day marks the anniversary of July 4, 1776, when the thirteen American colonies declared their freedom from British rule with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It was the beginning of a new nation—and has since grown into a day to celebrate freedom, reflect on the country’s roots, and enjoy traditions like fireworks, parades, and, of course, great food.

Celebrate with Flavor and Time Together

As you honor the spirit of the holiday, there’s no better way to connect with family and friends than around the table. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or bringing a dish to the picnic, these simple recipes and small appliances will make prepping easy and delicious.

Main Course Lineup

1. Grilled Kabobs on the Toastmaster Electric Griddle

 Colorful, customizable, and always a crowd favorite.

What You Need:

• Cubed chicken or steak
• Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, cut into chunks and squares
• Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder

How To:
Toss everything in oil and seasoning. Thread onto skewers and grill on the preheated Toastmaster Electric Griddle until meat is cooked through and veggies are charred.

2. Balsamic Grilled Mushroom Skewers (Healthier Option)

 A plant-forward favorite with bold flavor.

What You Need:

• Whole cremini mushrooms
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, Italian herbs

How To:
Marinate mushrooms for 15 minutes. Skewer and grill on the Toastmaster Electric Griddle until tender and golden, about 6–8 minutes.

3. Grilled Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef (Toastmaster Electric Skillet + Grill Combo)

 Savory, cheesy, and ideal for prepping ahead.

What You Need:

• 3 bell peppers, halved and seeded
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 chopped onion
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder

How To:
Brown beef and onion in the Toastmaster Electric Skillet, seasoning to taste. Stir in cheese and spoon the mixture into pepper halves. Transfer to the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes until the peppers are softened and the tops are lightly charred.

Fresh & Fun Sides

4. Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with the Toastmaster Air Fryer

 Sweet, juicy, and just the right amount of crisp.

What You Need:

• Corn on the cob
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt

How To:
Brush corn with oil or butter, season lightly, and air fry in your Toastmaster Air Fryer at 370°F for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through.

5. Grilled Corn Salsa (Chop with the Toastmaster Chopper)

Zesty, colorful, and perfect with chips or tacos.

What You Need:

• 2 cups grilled corn (cut from 2–3 ears)
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

How To:
Chop the onion, jalapeño, tomatoes, and cilantro in the Toastmaster 3-Cup Chopper. Combine with grilled corn and lime juice in a bowl. Add salt to taste and chill before serving.

6. Lemonade Italian Ice in the Toastmaster Blender

Cool off with a refreshing citrus treat.

What You Need:

• 2 cups lemonade
• 2 cups ice
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• Lemon zest (optional)

How To:
Blend all ingredients until smooth and slushy in the Toastmaster Blender. Serve immediately or freeze until scoopable.

7. Creative Picnic Popcorn in the Toastmaster Stir Popcorn Maker

Easy to make and fun to flavor.

Ideas to Try:

• Melted white chocolate with red, white & blue sprinkles
• Ranch seasoning with parmesan
• Cinnamon sugar with sea salt

How To:

Pop your kernels in the Toastmaster Stir Popcorn Maker. Add toppings while warm and let cool before packing.

Sweet Treats with Babycakes

8. Cupcakes, Mini Donuts & Cake Pops in the Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker

One batter, three bite-sized treats.

Vanilla Batter (Makes about 35 cake pops, 25 mini donuts, or 20 mini cupcakes)

Ingredients:

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker using your desired plate (cake pop, donut, or cupcake).

2. Prepare the batter according to the cake mix package instructions

3. Fill each cavity about 2/3 full using a piping bag or small spoon (avoid overfilling).

4. Close the lid and bake:

• Cake pops: 4–6 minutes

• Mini donuts: 3–5 minutes

• Mini cupcakes: 5–8 minutes

5. Remove treats carefully with a non-metal utensil. Let cool before decorating.

Fourth of July Decorating Ideas:

• Cake Pops: Dip in melted white chocolate and top with red and blue sprinkles. Insert a paper treat stick and display upright.
• Mini Donuts: Glaze with powdered sugar icing and drizzle with red and blue colored icing.
• Mini Cupcakes: Frost with vanilla buttercream and top with patriotic sprinkles or tiny flags.

Red, White, and Yum

This Fourth of July, celebrate freedom with food that’s full of flavor and fun. Whether you’re serving up grilled favorites, frozen drinks, or sweet treats, Select Brands appliances are your go-to helpers for making it all easy. With just a few tools and simple ingredients, you can create a holiday menu that brings everyone together and makes memories that last long after the fireworks fade.

Happy Fourth from everyone at Select Brands!

FAQs

Q: Can I use the Toastmaster griddle indoors and outdoors?

Yes! The Toastmaster griddle is electric and designed for indoor use, but it’s portable enough to take outside to your patio or picnic table with access to an outlet.

Q: How do I clean the Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker?

Once the appliance is cool, simply wipe the nonstick plates with a damp cloth. Avoid using metal tools or abrasive sponges to keep the surface in top condition.

Q: Can the Toastmaster air fryer handle more than just corn?

Definitely. It’s great for fries, chicken wings, veggies, and even desserts. The basket is spacious enough for everyday meals and holiday sides.

Q: What’s the difference between the Toastmaster skillet and a regular frying pan?

The Toastmaster electric skillet offers consistent, adjustable heat and a large cooking surface. It’s ideal for cooking multiple portions at once without needing a stovetop.