Memorial Day Menu is a time to remember and honor those who have served in the military and sacrificed their lives for our freedom. It’s also a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy each other’s company. One way to do that is by having a delicious meal. While grilling is a popular Memorial Day tradition, not everyone has access to a grill or wants to deal with the hassle of using one. Fortunately, there are plenty of Memorial Day menu ideas that don’t require a grill. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite recipes and tips for a memorable Memorial Day menu.
Table of Contents
- Why a No Grill Memorial Day Menu?
- Appetizers and Sides
- Caprese Skewers
- BBQ Chicken Dip
- Grilled Corn Salad
- Watermelon Feta Salad
- Baked Beans
- Main Dishes
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
- Beer Can Chicken in the Oven
- Smoked Brisket in the Oven
- Desserts
- No-Bake Cheesecake
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- Fruit Kabobs
- Drinks
- Sangria
- Lemonade
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. Why a No Grill Memorial Day Menu?
Grilling is a popular Memorial Day activity, but not everyone has access to a grill or wants to deal with the hassle of using one. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious Memorial Day menu ideas that don’t require a grill. By choosing a no-grill menu, you can save time, money, and effort. Plus, you can still have a great meal that everyone will enjoy.
2. Appetizers and Sides
No meal is complete without some tasty appetizers and sides. Here are a few ideas that are easy to make and don’t require a grill.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a great appetizer that can be made in advance. To make them, simply thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve.
BBQ Chicken Dip
This delicious dip is sure to be a hit with your guests. To make it, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese together in a bowl. Bake in the oven until bubbly and serve with tortilla chips.
Grilled Corn Salad
While this dish may sound like it requires a grill, you can actually make it in the oven. To make it, roast corn in the oven until tender. Then, cut the kernels off the cob and mix them with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Watermelon Feta Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for a warm Memorial Day afternoon. Simply chop up some watermelon and feta cheese and mix them together. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with chopped mint.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic Memorial Day side dish that can be made in the oven. To make them, mix canned navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and diced onion together in a baking dish. Bake in the oven until bubbly and serve.
3. Main Dishes
While grilling may be the traditional way to cook main dishes on Memorial Day, there are plenty of alternatives that are just as delicious. Here are a few ideas that don’t require a grill.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a crowd-pleaser that can be made in the slow cooker. To make it, simply rub a pork shoulder with your favorite seasoning blend and place it in the slow cooker with some apple cider vinegar and chicken broth. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the pork is tender and falls apart easily. Shred the pork with a fork and serve with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Beer Can Chicken in the Oven
Beer can chicken is a classic grilled dish, but you can also make it in the oven. To make it, simply season a whole chicken with your favorite spices and place it on top of a half-full can of beer. Bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Smoked Brisket in the Oven
Brisket is another popular grilled dish that can be made in the oven. To make it, simply season a brisket with your favorite spices and place it in a roasting pan with some beef broth. Cover the pan with foil and bake in the oven for several hours until the brisket is tender and falls apart easily.
4. Desserts
No Memorial Day meal is complete without a sweet treat. Here are a few ideas that are easy to make and don’t require a grill.
No-Bake Cheesecake
This delicious dessert can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it. To make it, simply mix cream cheese, whipped cream, and sugar together in a bowl. Pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust and chill in the fridge until set.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
These sweet treats are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Simply dip fresh strawberries in melted chocolate and let them cool on a sheet of parchment paper.
Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are a refreshing and healthy dessert option. Simply chop up your favorite fruits and thread them onto skewers. Drizzle with honey and serve.
5. Drinks
No Memorial Day meal is complete without some delicious drinks. Here are a few ideas that are easy to make and perfect for a warm afternoon.
Sangria
Sangria is a refreshing and fruity drink that’s perfect for Memorial Day. Simply mix your favorite red or white wine with some fruit juice and chopped fruit. Chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Lemonade
Homemade lemonade is a classic drink that’s perfect for a Memorial Day picnic. Simply mix fresh-squeezed lemon juice with sugar and water. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices.
6. Conclusion
While grilling is a popular Memorial Day tradition, it’s not the only way to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family. With these no-grill Memorial Day menu ideas, you can create a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy. From appetizers and sides to main dishes and desserts, there are plenty of tasty options to choose from. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy a delicious meal together this Memorial Day.
7. FAQs
- Can I make these dishes in advance?
Yes, many of these dishes can be made in advance to save time on the day of your Memorial Day celebration.
- Can I make these dishes for a large group of people?
Yes, these dishes can easily be scaled up to feed a large group of people.
- Can I use a slow cooker for the main dishes?
Yes, slow cookers are a great way to cook main dishes like pulled pork.
- Can I use different fruits for the fruit kabobs?
Yes, feel free to use any fruits that you like for the fruit kabobs.
- Can I make the sangria without alcohol?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of sangria by using fruit juice