Memorial Day is an important holiday in the United States that is dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives while serving the country. It’s also the unofficial start of summer, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious food with family and friends. If you’re planning a Memorial Day BBQ, here are some great Memorial Day recipes that are sure to impress your guests and make your celebration even more memorable.
1. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
If you’re a fan of steak, this grilled steak with chimichurri sauce recipe is a must-try. The chimichurri sauce is a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil that adds a burst of flavor to the perfectly grilled steak. It’s a simple recipe that’s easy to prepare, but the end result is absolutely delicious.
2. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Nothing says BBQ quite like pulled pork sandwiches. This recipe calls for slow-cooking the pork until it’s tender and juicy, then shredding it and serving it on a bun with your favorite BBQ sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for feeding a large group.
3. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
For a lighter option, try these grilled shrimp skewers. They’re easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them a great choice for busy hosts. The shrimp are marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. Serve them with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad
This refreshing watermelon feta salad is the perfect complement to any BBQ meal. It’s a simple recipe that combines juicy watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and fresh mint for a burst of summer flavor. It’s also a great vegetarian option for guests who don’t eat meat.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side dish, and grilling it takes it to the next level. This recipe calls for brushing the corn with a mixture of butter and garlic, then grilling it until it’s slightly charred and crispy. It’s a simple dish that’s always a hit with guests.
6. Red, White, and Blueberry Trifle
For a patriotic dessert, try this red, white, and blueberry trifle. It’s a layered dessert that combines angel food cake, whipped cream, and fresh berries for a sweet and refreshing treat. It’s also a great make-ahead option that can be prepared the day before your BBQ.
7. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a simple and delicious dessert that’s perfect for a summer BBQ. Simply slice a pineapple into rings, brush them with a mixture of honey and cinnamon, then grill them until they’re caramelized and tender. Serve them on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
8. BBQ Chicken Kabobs
These BBQ chicken kabobs are a fun and easy way to serve grilled chicken. Simply skewer the chicken with your favorite veggies, brush them with BBQ sauce, and grill them until they’re cooked through. They’re a great option for guests who prefer white meat over red meat.
9. Classic Potato Salad
No BBQ is complete without potato salad, and this classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple dish that combines boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy mayo-based dressing for a classic and comforting side dish.
10. Grilled Veggie Skewers
For a vegetarian option, try these grilled veggie skew These grilled veggie skewers are a colorful and flavorful addition to any BBQ meal. Choose your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions, and skewer them onto wooden or metal skewers. Brush them with a mixture of olive oil and herbs, then grill them until they’re tender and slightly charred.
11. BBQ Ribs
BBQ ribs are a classic American dish that are perfect for Memorial Day. This recipe calls for slow-cooking the ribs in a mixture of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and spices until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. It’s a time-consuming process, but the end result is worth it.
12. Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is another classic BBQ side dish that’s always a hit with guests. This recipe calls for cooked macaroni, diced veggies, and a creamy dressing made with mayo, vinegar, and spices. It’s a simple and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a large crowd.
13. Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a classic summer dessert that’s perfect for Memorial Day. This recipe calls for freshly baked shortcakes, sliced strawberries, and whipped cream. It’s a simple and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
14. Grilled Vegetarian Burgers
For a vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying as a traditional burger, try these grilled vegetarian burgers. Made with black beans, quinoa, and spices, these burgers are packed with flavor and protein. Serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
15. Sangria
No BBQ is complete without a refreshing beverage, and sangria is the perfect choice for Memorial Day. This recipe calls for red wine, fruit juice, and chopped fruit, such as oranges, apples, and berries. It’s a sweet and refreshing drink that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
In conclusion, these great Memorial Day recipes are sure to make your BBQ celebration a success. Whether you’re a fan of classic dishes like BBQ pulled pork and grilled corn on the cob, or prefer lighter options like grilled shrimp skewers and watermelon feta salad, there’s something for everyone on this list. So fire up the grill, gather your family and friends, and enjoy a delicious and memorable Memorial Day celebration.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of meat in the grilled steak with chimichurri sauce recipe?
- Yes, you can use any type of steak or even chicken if you prefer.
- Can I make the BBQ pulled pork sandwiches in advance?
- Yes, you can make the pork ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- How long does it take to grill the shrimp skewers?
- The shrimp skewers only take a few minutes to cook on each side, so keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook.
- Can I use frozen corn for the grilled corn on the cob recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen corn, but make sure to thaw it first before grilling.
- How long does it take to cook the BBQ ribs?
- The ribs need to be cooked low and slow for several hours until they’re tender and falling off the bone. Plan for at least 3-4 hours of cooking time.