Memorial Day’s one of those times when everyone just wants to get together, hang out outside, and take a moment to remember those who served. It’s hard to imagine these gatherings without food—it’s honestly what brings people closer.
With the right recipes, you can actually keep your Memorial Day meal simple, fun, and, yeah, memorable. Whether you’re planning a laid-back picnic or going all-in with a backyard cookout, having good food just makes everything better.
Table of Contents
- 1) Grilled Cajun Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
- 2) Fall-Apart BBQ Ribs
- 3) Caprese Turkey Burgers
- 4) Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad
- 5) Pigs In A Quilt
- 6) Thai Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers
- 7) Bacon and Egg Potato Salad
- 8) Classic Deviled Eggs
- 9) Carne Asada
- 10) Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Butter
- Planning the Perfect Memorial Day Menu
- Techniques for Outdoor Cooking
- Frequently Asked Questions
1) Grilled Cajun Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Grilled Cajun Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are packed with flavor and honestly couldn’t be easier for your Memorial Day spread. You’ll toss whole wings with Cajun spices, lemon zest, fresh parsley, and a good hit of black pepper. Throw them on the grill until the skin gets that crispy char and the inside stays juicy—so good.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s the mix of smoky, spicy, and citrusy flavors. Grilling gives you that deep flavor and, let’s be real, it’s a little lighter than deep frying. Plus, you can always dial the spice up or down depending on who’s coming over.
Chicken wings have always been a go-to party food in the U.S., right? They’re perfect for outdoor cookouts—easy to grab, no fuss. Grilling lets you cook a bunch at once, which is a lifesaver if you’ve got a crowd.
The flavors here—Southern and Cajun—are basically American classics. Cajun seasoning, straight outta Louisiana, is all about bold spices, and the lemon pepper keeps things fresh and bright.
Serve these wings with crunchy veggies, coleslaw, or whatever dip you’re into. They’re great hot, but honestly, they’re just as tasty at room temp. Super flexible for backyard parties or bigger gatherings.
If you want something easy to prep and easy to share, these grilled wings are always a hit. They’re filling, full of flavor, and honestly, they just make hanging out with friends and family even better on Memorial Day.
2) Fall-Apart BBQ Ribs
BBQ ribs are just classic for Memorial Day. The best ones? They’re cooked slow, so the meat basically melts, and you finish them off with a sticky layer of your favorite barbecue sauce. That’s the good stuff.
Start by peeling off the membrane on the back—it’s not hard, just a little annoying, but it makes a difference. Dry them off, then rub with a mix of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and maybe a bit of brown sugar if you’re feeling it.
Bake the ribs low and slow in the oven. Some folks wrap them in foil for extra juiciness. When they’re tender, brush on the sauce and finish on the grill or under a broiler until you get that caramelized crust.
Ribs are a Memorial Day favorite because you can make them ahead, and they feed a crowd without fuss. Works indoors or out, so if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’re still good. You can even season them the night before to save time.
Cooking ribs is more than just food—it’s tradition. BBQs are a big part of summer in the U.S., and ribs have their own spot in regional American cooking. Sauces and rubs change depending on where you are, which is kinda cool.
If you want something to share with friends and family, BBQ ribs are tough to beat. They’re hearty, loaded with flavor, and just bring that classic barbecue vibe to the party.
3) Caprese Turkey Burgers
Caprese Turkey Burgers are a lighter twist on your usual burger. You use lean ground turkey for the patties, then top them with mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, and fresh basil. A little balsamic glaze on top? Yes, please.
This recipe mashes up the juicy, savory side of a turkey burger with the fresh, summery flavors of a Caprese salad. The cheese and basil go perfectly with the rich tomatoes. Serve them on buns—easy to eat, easy to love.
Turkey burgers are a solid pick for Memorial Day. They’re lighter than beef but still fill you up. The Caprese toppings make them look and taste like summer, which is just what you want for the holiday.
There isn’t a deep history tying Caprese turkey burgers to Memorial Day, to be honest. But burgers in general? Total staple at American cookouts. Adding Caprese flavors just gives the classic a fresh spin most people will appreciate.
You can make the patties ahead and just grill them when you’re ready. Easy to double, easy to tweak with whatever toppings you like best.
Bringing Caprese Turkey Burgers to your Memorial Day lineup adds something different. They’re a hit with folks who want something a little lighter but don’t want to miss out on taste. Plus, they’re easy—no need to overthink it.
4) Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad
Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is exactly what it sounds like—pasta, roasted broccoli, and creamy Caesar dressing all tossed together. Don’t forget a generous handful of fresh Parmesan. Some folks throw in diced tomato or croutons for crunch, too.
Serve it warm or cold, whatever works. It comes together fast—like, 20 minutes or so. You don’t need a bunch of fancy stuff, either, which is always a plus.
This salad’s a go-to for Memorial Day because it’s easy to make, travels well, and everyone knows those Caesar flavors. The roasted broccoli gives it a little something extra, so it feels special without being a pain.
Caesar salad’s been around since the early 1900s, with Italian-American roots. Adding pasta and broccoli turns it into a side that’s actually filling. It fits right in at American cookouts, where pasta salads have been showing up for ages.
If you want a side that’s both fresh and hearty, Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad’s a safe bet. It goes well with grilled stuff, burgers, or pretty much anything picnic-y. Plus, it holds up outside, which is kind of important for Memorial Day.
5) Pigs In A Quilt
Pigs in a Quilt are about as easy—and crowd-pleasing—as it gets for Memorial Day. Just wrap little sausages in biscuit or crescent dough, bake until golden, and you’re done. They come out warm, soft, and just a bit crispy outside.
They’re perfect finger food for outdoor parties, picnics, or family barbecues. Serve with dips—mustard, ketchup, cheese sauce, whatever you’ve got.
Pigs in a Quilt have been a staple at American parties for ages. They’re quick, kid-friendly, and honestly, you don’t need to be a chef to pull them off.
This recipe comes from classic comfort food traditions in the U.S. Sure, sausages wrapped in dough exist all over the world, but the American version really took off at parties in the last century.
For Memorial Day, these bites bring back memories of summer and family traditions. Kids can help make them, which is fun. You can switch up the dough or sausages if you want to mix things up.
If you need something fast and foolproof that everyone will eat, Pigs in a Quilt are the way to go. They’ve been a party favorite for a reason—familiar, tasty, and just right for the holiday weekend.
6) Thai Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers
Thai Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers are one of those flavor-packed dishes that just work for a Memorial Day cookout. You marinate the shrimp in lemon juice, olive oil, and a hit of jerk or Thai seasoning. Then all you have to do is thread the shrimp onto skewers, toss them on the grill, and brush on a glossy sweet chili glaze at the end. Easy, right?
You can serve these skewers as a main or just pass them around as an appetizer. The glaze is sweet, a little tangy, and has a gentle kick—perfect for letting the shrimp still shine. Plus, these are a breeze to prep ahead, which is a lifesaver if you're feeding a crowd outside.
Honestly, these skewers are a hit at Memorial Day parties because they’re light, fresh, and super quick to cook. Shrimp grill up in minutes, so you’re not stuck babysitting the barbecue. That sweet chili glaze gives them a bit of a global twist, which is kind of fun on a classic American holiday.
Sweet chili sauce is straight out of Thai cuisine, where they’re all about balancing sweet, sour, and spicy. Bringing those flavors to Memorial Day? Why not. American cookouts have gotten more adventurous over the years anyway. It’s a small way to shake up the usual menu.
Kids and adults both seem to love these. They’re great with rice, salads, or a pile of grilled veggies. No fancy equipment needed—just some skewers and a basic grill or grill pan, and you’re set.
Memorial Day is basically the unofficial kickoff to summer, so why not celebrate with something as bright and lively as these Thai sweet chili shrimp skewers? They’re a fresh way to mix things up and get everyone in the summer spirit.
7) Bacon and Egg Potato Salad
Bacon and egg potato salad is just one of those classic sides that never gets old at a cookout. It’s got soft potatoes, crispy bacon, and chopped hard-boiled eggs, all tossed in a creamy mayo (sometimes with sour cream) dressing to pull it together.
If you want to jazz it up, try adding green onions or pickled banana peppers for a pop of flavor and tang. The bacon brings in smokiness, while the eggs make it extra filling. Every bite is creamy, salty, and just plain satisfying.
This salad is always a crowd-pleaser for Memorial Day. You can make it ahead and serve it cold—super convenient for picnics and outdoor parties. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also perfect as a side.
Potato salad has been showing up at American picnics since the 1800s. Every region has their own spin, but honestly, bacon and egg are favorites almost everywhere. It’s all about making something simple and familiar that still feels special.
Making this dish is a way to keep an old American tradition alive. You can tweak the add-ins however you want, but the base is what everyone looks forward to at Memorial Day. It’s classic, but you don’t have to overthink it—just good food, done well.
8) Classic Deviled Eggs
Classic deviled eggs are, let’s be honest, pretty much expected at any Memorial Day spread. They’re creamy, simple, and you can make them the night before—what’s not to love? All you really need are hard-boiled eggs, mayo, a little mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Just slice the eggs in half, pop out the yolks, and mash them up with the mayo, mustard, and vinegar until it’s nice and smooth. Season to taste and spoon (or pipe, if you’re feeling fancy) the filling back into the whites.
Some folks like to dust the tops with paprika or dill, or add a splash of pickle juice for a little zing. They’re best served cold—especially when it’s hot out and you want something refreshing.
Deviled eggs go way back in American food history, popping up at picnics and holidays since the 1800s. If anything, they’ve only gotten more popular over time.
For Memorial Day, they’re a go-to because you can pick them up with your fingers—no forks or knives needed. Plus, their mild flavor means just about everyone’s happy to grab one (or three).
You can keep them classic or get creative with toppings. If you’re a traditionalist, stick with the basics. Either way, you’ll see deviled eggs at cookouts, reunions, and potlucks all over the country.
Bringing a platter of deviled eggs to a Memorial Day picnic is kind of like a nod to the past. They’re a familiar favorite that connects generations—kids, grandparents, everyone.
9) Carne Asada
Carne asada is a grilled beef dish straight out of Mexican cuisine. You start with steak—usually flank or skirt steak—and let it soak in a marinade of citrus juice, oil, garlic, salt, and a bunch of spices. After marinating, just grill it until it’s charred on the outside but still juicy inside. Simple, but so good.
The marinade is easy: orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and a little cumin. Let the steak hang out in there for at least half an hour (longer if you want more flavor). Grill it hot and fast, then slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Carne asada is a perfect fit for Memorial Day because it’s made for outdoor cooking and it feeds a crowd. Serve it with warm tortillas, salsa, or fresh pico—everyone can build their own tacos or plates. Grilled veggies on the side? Always a good idea.
This recipe is a party favorite: it’s bold, unfussy, and quick to cook. Carne asada has deep roots in Mexican celebrations, and by bringing it to your Memorial Day cookout, you’re adding a bit of cultural flavor to the mix.
Sharing carne asada at your gathering is an easy way to enjoy traditional flavors and keep the vibe relaxed and festive. The combo of grilled steak, fresh toppings, and DIY serving makes it a hit for any outdoor holiday.
10) Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Butter
Grilled artichokes with garlic butter are one of those sides that feel a little special but aren’t actually hard to make. Trim fresh artichokes, steam them until they’re tender, then finish them on the grill for that smoky flavor. Brush them with a simple garlic butter sauce and you’re done.
This dish is made for sharing—people love pulling off the leaves and dipping them in that garlicky butter. It works as a side or an appetizer, and fits in with whatever else you’ve got on the grill.
Grilled artichokes are a smart pick for Memorial Day because they’re in season in late spring, which means they’re fresh and not crazy expensive at the market. They’re a nice way to add some variety and a lighter option to the usual barbecue lineup.
Serving artichokes has roots in Mediterranean food traditions, where sharing vegetable dishes is just part of the meal. American cookouts have picked up on this, especially as grilling veggies has gotten more popular.
If you’re looking to mix things up with a new veggie this Memorial Day, grilled artichokes are worth a try. They’re tender, a little smoky, and that garlic butter makes them totally craveable.
Artichokes are also great because they look good on the table and taste even better. They’re simple, wholesome, and don’t take forever to prep. Whether you’ve got a big group or just a few friends, they fit right in.
Planning the Perfect Memorial Day Menu
Putting together a Memorial Day menu isn’t just about picking tasty dishes—it’s about finding things that go well together and work for everyone at the table. You’ll want to think about flavor, nutrition, and any special diets your guests might have (because, let’s face it, there’s always at least one).
Balancing Flavors and Nutrition
The best Memorial Day menus have a little bit of everything: sweet, savory, and something fresh. Grilled meats like chicken, burgers, or ribs are a given, but don’t forget colorful salads and fruit bowls. A veggie side—maybe grilled corn or roasted veggies—adds balance and a pop of color.
Try to mix up textures and colors. Crunchy coleslaw next to soft baked beans? Yes, please. Keep nutrition in mind, too—throw in some whole grains, lean proteins, and fruit. Maybe skip the super heavy, fried stuff and offer lighter bites like grilled chicken skewers or watermelon slices for a change.
Here’s one way to build a balanced plate:
| Protein | Veggies | Grains | Fruits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Corn on cob | Rolls | Strawberries |
| Burgers | Salad | Quinoa | Watermelon |
| Veggie Skewers | Coleslaw | Brown rice | Grapes |
Accommodating Dietary Preferences
Chances are, someone at your party avoids certain foods for allergies, religious reasons, or just personal preference. It’s worth asking ahead about any restrictions. The usual ones: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free.
Offer a few easy swaps, like:
- Vegetarian: Black bean burgers instead of beef burgers
- Gluten-free: Corn tortillas or lettuce wraps
- Dairy-free: Use olive oil in place of butter
Label dishes with little cards so nobody has to guess. Leave dressings on the side for salads and sides—let people pick what works for them. Grill up extra veggies and offer fruit-based desserts so everyone has options.
Taking a little time to plan ahead means everyone feels welcome and can actually relax and enjoy the day. Isn’t that the whole point?
Techniques for Outdoor Cooking
Cooking outside on Memorial Day? It’s honestly a lot more fun when you know a few tricks and don’t have to stress about food safety. A little planning and some attention to detail—especially with side dishes and the grill—goes a long way toward keeping everyone happy (and healthy) at the table.
Grilling Safety and Best Practices
Let’s be real: grilling can get messy if you’re not careful. First off, always set up your grill on a flat, sturdy spot, away from anything flammable—no one wants a backyard mishap. And it’s worth taking a few minutes to clean the grill before you get started. Old grease? That stuff can flare up out of nowhere.
Grab some long-handled tools to keep your hands safe, and keep a spray bottle of water nearby for those pesky little flare-ups. And this should go without saying, but don’t walk away from a hot grill—ever. If you’re lighting charcoal, skip the lighter fluid (no one likes food that tastes like chemicals) and use a chimney or electric starter instead.
When it comes to doneness, don’t just guess—use a food thermometer. Poultry needs to hit 165°F, and burgers should be at least 160°F. Once you’re finished, make sure everything’s turned off or fully out, then let it cool before tackling the cleanup. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Grill Safety Quick Checklist:
- Keep the grill outside and away from anything that might catch fire
- Scrub the grill before each use
- Always check meat temps with a thermometer
- Don’t leave the grill alone, even for a second
Side Dishes That Shine at Picnics
Honestly, the best side dishes for a picnic are the ones that don’t fuss if they sit out for a bit. Simple, sturdy, and not too fussy—those are the winners.
Pasta salads, potato salads, and coleslaw are classics for a reason—they hold up. If you want something lighter, toss together a fruit salad or put out a tray of raw veggies with dip. And if you’re craving something warm, baked beans are surprisingly forgiving even after they’ve cooled off a little.
Don’t be afraid to mess with tradition. Try swapping in vinaigrette for mayo in a pasta salad—less risky in the sun, honestly. Pack sides in tight containers and use ice packs or frozen water bottles to keep things cool until you’re ready to eat.
Easy Picnic Sides:
| Dish | Tips |
|---|---|
| Pasta Salad | Oil-based dressings keep it fresher, longer |
| Potato Salad | Fresh herbs add a pop—just keep it cold till serving |
| Fruit Salad | A splash of lemon juice keeps everything bright |
| Veggie Platter | Pair with hummus or ranch, and keep it chilled |
| Baked Beans | Stash in a thermal container if you want them warm |
Frequently Asked Questions
On Memorial Day, it’s usually all about grilled meats, fresh salads, and those easy, shareable finger foods. And don’t forget desserts—something simple and crowd-pleasing always hits the spot at an outdoor get-together.
What are the top dishes to serve at a large Memorial Day gathering?
Grilled Cajun Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings seem to be a real crowd favorite—super flavorful and you don’t even need a fork. Fall-Apart BBQ Ribs and Caprese Turkey Burgers also tend to disappear fast when you’ve got a lot of hungry folks.
Which Memorial Day recipes are highly rated by culinary experts?
BBQ Ribs and Caprese Turkey Burgers usually get top marks for taste and how good they look on the table. If you want a side, Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is one of those dishes people actually ask for the recipe—it’s creamy, packed with flavor, and you can make it ahead.
What are some simple yet popular menu options for a Memorial Day celebration?
Pigs In A Quilt are super quick and, honestly, kids go nuts for them. Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is both fresh and hearty. And those Cajun Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings? You’ll probably wish you made extra.
Which desserts are favorites for a Memorial Day event?
Fruit salad, brownies, and good old berry shortcake are always a hit. Ice cream and cookies are also easy to hand out (and you don’t have to worry much about cleanup).
What are some traditional side dishes to complement a Memorial Day meal?
Potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans—can’t really go wrong with those. Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is a newer favorite, and it’s a nice way to balance out all the heavier mains.
What are some ideal food choices for a Memorial Day picnic?
Honestly, you can't go wrong with stuff that's easy to toss in a cooler—think Pigs In A Quilt or maybe some Caprese Turkey Burgers. Both of those hold up pretty well on the go, and they're not fussy to eat outside, which is always a win.
And let's be real, chilled pasta salads or just a big bowl of cut-up fruit? Always a hit. They're light, refreshing, and you don't have to overthink it.
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