(BPT) - As Fourth of July nears and grills fire up across the country, pork is claiming its place at the center of the celebration. Grilling isn't just about cooking, it's a summer ritual steeped in flavor, connection and laid-back joy. And no protein delivers on that promise quite like pork. From smoky ribs to juicy chops and tenderloin, pork brings bold, crowd-pleasing flavor to every flame-kissed bite. This Independence Day, don't just grill, make pork the hero of your holiday table.

Grilling influencer and Fourth of July fanatic Darryl Postelnick (@cookingwithdarryl on TikTok) shines a spotlight on how pork brings unmatched flavor, variety and creativity opportunities to the summer table. From casual get-togethers to full-on family dinners, Darryl's message is simple: "When you grill with pork, you're not just making food - you're making memories."

Pork Cuts That Bring the Boom

For Darryl, pork isn't just one thing, it's everything. "Pork's got range," Postelnick says. "It can be juicy, smoky, spicy, sweet, fancy, messy, you name it." Here are the seven cuts Darryl keeps on deck for the Fourth of July, and why he believes they deserve a spot on your grill.

Pork Ribs: The Star-Spangled Showstopper

"Nothing says 'Fourth' like ribs," Darryl says. "They bring the drama. They bring the 'wow.' And when people see a rack hit the grill, they know it's a party." Whether sweet-glazed or spice-crusted, pork ribs are the kind of dish that gets people talking - and licking their fingers.

Pork Chops: The Quiet MVP

Too often overlooked, pork chops are Darryl's secret weapon for fast, flavorful grilling. "Chops are that cut that can go from zero to hero in no time," he says. "You can dress 'em up with fancy seasonings or keep it simple with salt, pepper and smoke." Either way, they cook fast and eat big.

Pork Tenderloin: Elegant, but Easy

"Pork tenderloin is for when you want to impress without the stress," says Darryl. Lean, tender, and ready to take on any marinade or rub, it's the kind of cut that earns a place at the center of the table - and disappears just as quickly. "Slice it up, serve with grilled peaches, and watch folks go quiet. That's how you know you nailed it."

Pork Shoulder: Slow and Worth Every Second

For those willing to play the long game, pork shoulder delivers deep, smoky satisfaction. "It's the cut that feeds the whole block," says Darryl. "You throw it on early in the morning, and by fireworks time, it's tender, pull-apart perfection." Put a new twist on the classic slider and serve as street tacos with crema and coleslaw - pickles included.

Bacon: The Comeback Hero

Darryl doesn't just save bacon for breakfast. "I use it to wrap, top, layer, or just serve crispy on the side," he says. "It's a flavor booster that takes everything up a notch." From bacon-wrapped veggies to smoky toppings for mac and cheese, bacon adds crunch and crave to any dish.

Pepperoni: The Sleeper Hit

Think pepperoni's just for pizza? Not in Darryl's backyard. "Grilled pepperoni? Game changer," he says. Whether skewered with pineapple or chopped into pasta salad, it delivers spicy, savory fireworks with every bite.

Pork Sausage: The Griller's Playground

Finally, there's sausage: hot, juicy, and endlessly customizable. "Sausage lets you play," says Darryl. "Different flavors, different styles, all delicious." From bratwurst to spicy Italian to smoky chorizo, there's a sausage for every guest and every plate.

Darryl's Fourth of July Mantra: Keep It Real, Keep It Pork

Beyond cuts and technique, Darryl's biggest tip for the holiday is to stay present. "Grilling pork isn't about perfection," he says. "It's about bringing people together. It's about the smell in the air, the kids running around, the music, the laughter. Pork just happens to be the perfect centerpiece for all that."

So, whether you're smoking ribs all day or tossing chops on after a swim, remember Darryl's golden rule: "If it sizzles, smells amazing, and makes your guests say 'whoa' - you're doing it right."

Fire Up the Flavor

This Fourth of July, make pork the centerpiece of your grill. For more tips, stories and summer inspiration, follow @cookingwithdarryl and visit Taste What Pork Can Do.

Because when you grill pork, you bring people together - and that's worth celebrating.