Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor the brave men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is also a time to gather with family and friends, enjoy the warm weather, and indulge in some delicious barbecue. But with so many BBQ ideas out there, it can be overwhelming to decide what to cook. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best BBQ ideas for Memorial Day that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to make. All you need are some large shrimp, skewers, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Simply thread the shrimp onto the skewers, brush with olive oil and minced garlic, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill for about 3 minutes on each side until they are pink and slightly charred. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
2. Classic Cheeseburgers
You can never go wrong with a classic cheeseburger. To make the perfect burger, start with high-quality ground beef, mix in some salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, and form into patties. Grill the patties over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. Add a slice of cheese in the last minute of cooking for a melty finish. Serve on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
3. BBQ Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are always a hit at any BBQ, and these BBQ chicken wings are no exception. Marinate the wings in a mixture of BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, and garlic for at least an hour. Then grill over medium heat for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally until they are crispy and cooked through. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a staple at any BBQ, and for good reason. The heat of the grill brings out the sweetness of the corn and gives it a delicious charred flavor. Simply brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until it is cooked and slightly charred.
5. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are a BBQ favorite and perfect for feeding a crowd. Rub a boneless pork shoulder with a mixture of brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Smoke on low heat for about 8 hours until it is tender and falls apart easily. Shred the pork and mix with your favorite BBQ sauce. Serve on a toasted bun with coleslaw for a classic Southern BBQ sandwich.
6. Grilled Vegetables
Don’t forget the veggies! Grilled vegetables are a healthy and delicious addition to any BBQ. Simply brush your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred. Serve as a side dish or on top of a salad for added crunch.
7. Watermelon Salad
Cool off on a hot day with a refreshing watermelon salad. Simply cube some watermelon and mix with crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve chilled for a sweet and tangy side dish.
8. Grilled Pineapple
For a sweet and tropical treat, grilled pineapple is a perfect addition to any BBQ spread. Cut fresh pineapple into rings and brush with honey and cinnamon. Grill over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized and golden brown. Serve as a dessert or as a side dish to complement savory flavors.
9. BBQ Ribs
BBQ ribs are a classic American dish that always satisfies. Rub baby back or spare ribs with a mixture of brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Smoke on low heat for several hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sticky and delicious finish.
10. Grilled Salmon
For a healthier BBQ option, grilled salmon is a perfect choice. Brush salmon fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until it is cooked through and slightly charred. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs for added flavor.
11. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish that is always a hit. Boil diced potatoes until tender and mix with mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped onion, and diced hard-boiled eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste and refrigerate until chilled. Serve as a side dish to complement grilled meats and vegetables.
12. BBQ Pulled Chicken
Pulled chicken is a flavorful and easy BBQ dish that is perfect for sandwiches or as a topping for salads. Mix boneless chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce and seasonings. Grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes on each side until it is cooked through and slightly charred. Shred the chicken and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
13. Grilled Steak
Grilled steak is a classic BBQ dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. Season your favorite cut of steak with salt and pepper and grill over high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Serve with a pat of garlic butter or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
14. BBQ Meatballs
Meatballs are a fun and easy BBQ dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. Mix ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, and your favorite BBQ sauce. Roll into small balls and grill over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly charred. Serve as a main dish or as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.
15. S’mores
No BBQ is complete without a sweet treat, and s’mores are a classic dessert that everyone loves. Toast marshmallows over a fire pit or grill until they are golden brown and gooey. Sandwich between graham crackers with a piece of chocolate for a delicious and nostalgic dessert.
In conclusion, these BBQ ideas for Memorial Day are sure to impress your guests and make your celebration a success. Whether you prefer classic burgers and hot dogs or want to try something new like grilled pineapple or BBQ meatballs, there’s something for everyone on this list. Don’t forget to celebrate the true meaning of Memorial Day by taking a moment to honor and remember our fallen heroes.
FAQs:
Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
- Yes, most of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time and reheated on the grill or in the oven.
Can I use different types of meat for these recipes?
- Absolutely! You can substitute the meats in these recipes for your preferred protein, whether it’s beef, chicken, pork, or even vegetarian options like tofu or tempeh.
How do I prevent my BBQ meats from sticking to the grill?
- Make sure to preheat your grill before adding any meat, and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. You can also marinate the meat beforehand to add flavor and prevent sticking.
What sides can I serve with these BBQ dishes?
- There are plenty of options for sides to complement these BBQ dishes, including coleslaw, baked beans, grilled vegetables, potato salad, and more.
How do I make sure my meat is cooked to the correct temperature?
- Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your meat is cooked to the correct temperature. Different types of meat require different internal temperatures to be considered safe to eat, so make sure to check the recommended temperatures for your chosen protein.
With these tips and recipes, you’re sure to have a successful and delicious Memorial Day BBQ. Enjoy the warm weather, spend time with loved ones, and honor our fallen heroes in the best way possible – with good food and good company.