18 Memorial Day Food Ideas So Good, You’ll Make Them Twice

Summer grilling season is finally here, and I couldn’t be more excited! There’s just something special about gathering with family, enjoying delicious food, and soaking up the sunshine. Whether you’re planning a big backyard cookout or a simple family dinner, I’ve got some easy and tasty ideas to make it unforgettable.

Think juicy burgers, flavorful skewers, and light, refreshing salads—all perfect for warm summer days. And let’s not forget dessert! Fun, festive treats will have everyone reaching for seconds. The best part? Many of these recipes can be prepped ahead, so when it’s time to fire up the grill, you can actually relax and enjoy the moment.

Want to try something new? How about Root Beer Baked Beans for a fun twist on a classic or Korean Chicken Skewers for a bold, flavorful bite? And if you’re looking for vegetarian options, don’t worry—fresh veggie pasta salads and grilled tofu are just as delicious!

So grab your apron, gather the family, and let’s make this summer one to remember!

• Perfect for summer gatherings with easy-to-follow recipes.
• Mix of make-ahead dishes and fresh grilling ideas.
• Includes vegetarian and crowd-pleasing options.
• Features patriotic desserts for a festive touch.
• Tips for juicy burgers, tender skewers, and crispy wings.

Memorial Day is the perfect time to welcome summer with a delicious outdoor feast, surrounded by family, friends, and, of course, sunshine. It doesn’t really matter if you’re hosting a big backyard barbecue or a cozy picnic over the weekend, planning ahead can make your gathering stress-free and enjoyable (well, especially if you have kids who loves to play around every time).

But don’t worry, here are some proven and tested planning tips you can apply in your preparation.

• Plan your menu in advance to reduce last-minute stress. Decide on your dishes a few days in advance, make a grocery list, and prep as much as possible before the big day. This way, you can spend more time celebrating and less time rushing in the kitchen!
• Incorporate a mix of classic and modern dishes to please all guests. Stick to traditional crowd-pleasers like burgers and hot dogs but add a twist with dishes like grilled veggie flatbreads or spicy skewers.
• Prepare make-ahead salads and sides, like German Potato Salad and Red Cabbage Slaw. Sides are just as important as the main course, and prepping them ahead of time saves you from last-minute chaos.
• Include a variety of grilling options, such as skewers and veggie flatbreads. While juicy steaks and chicken skewers are always a hit, adding veggie-packed options like grilled flatbreads or marinated tofu ensures that everyone at your gathering—vegetarians included—can enjoy a flavorful meal fresh off the grill
• Don’t forget to add seasonal fruits and vegetables for freshness. Celebrate the best flavors of the season by incorporating fresh summer produce into your spread, and don’t hesitate to explore new salad recipes to elevate your menu.

Now Let’s Get Started with the Recipe ideas

Start your celebration with easy, flavorful grilled appetizers that will wow your guests. These simple recipes pack bold flavors with minimal effort—perfect for busy moms who want a stress-free gathering!

Every kid loves hot dog, isn’t it? Hot dogs are a grilling classic, but you know what? The right toppings can take them to the next level! Whether you love a little heat or prefer a crunch of crispy shallots, these loaded hot dogs are sure to be a hit.

Plus, there’s an easy vegetarian swap and a kid-friendly option, so everyone is happy!

• 6 hot dogs
• 6 hot dog buns
• ½ cup quick-pickled onions
• ¼ cup sriracha mayo
• ¼ cup crispy shallots
• 2 jalapeños, sliced (optional for spice lovers)
• ¼ cup horseradish cream (optional)
• 2 large portobello mushrooms (for a vegetarian option)
• Mini sausages and ketchup (for kids)

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place hot dogs (or portobello mushrooms for a veggie option) on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning often to get an even char.
3. Toast the buns on the grill for 30 seconds to 1 minute until golden.
4. Load up the hot dogs with your favorite toppings—quick-pickled onions, sriracha mayo, crispy shallots, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
5. Serve immediately with mini sausages and fruit skewers for kids!

Looking for a light and refreshing starter? These melon Caprese skewers are sweet, salty, and creamy all in one bite! The chilled skewers keep the melon crisp, while the balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish. Perfect for balancing out the smoky flavors of grilled dishes!

• 1 small cantaloupe, cut into cubes
• 1 cup mozzarella pearls
• 6 slices prosciutto, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 12 metal or wooden skewers (chill in the fridge for a crisp effect)

1. Take your chilled skewers and thread cantaloupe cubes, mozzarella pearls, and prosciutto, alternating for a nice color pattern.
2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil.
3. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately. (Tip: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh!)

Grilled starters are the secret to getting the party started right. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or a cozy group, these bites pack bold flavors with minimal fuss. We’ve got smoky, spicy, and fresh options to suit every taste.

There has always been a debate between burger and steak regarding the main star of memorial day celebrations and the ideal memorial day menu. But why choose, if you can cook both? Is it possible? Even if you’re busy with kids around? Absolutely!

If you’re looking for ideas, you can get recipe suggestions that fit your needs.

Don’t worry, I will also add some expert grilling tips to ensure every bite is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.

This bold and savory burger combines juicy beef, spicy jalapeños, and crispy pepperoni for the ultimate bite. The secret? An 80/20 beef blend that keeps the patties moist and flavorful!

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp seasoning salt
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup pickled jalapeños
• ¼ cup crispy pepperoni slices
• 4 brioche buns
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (for toasting buns)
• 1 cup arugula
• 1 large tomato, sliced

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning salt until just combined. Form into four equal patties.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temp of 160°F.
3. In the last minute of grilling, top each patty with cheddar cheese to melt.
4. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on brioche buns and toast them on the grill for 30 seconds until golden.
5. Assemble the burgers with arugula, tomato slices, pickled jalapeños, and crispy pepperoni. Serve hot and enjoy!

For a lighter but equally flavorful option, these cheddar-stuffed chicken burgers bring a melty, spicy kick! Since ground chicken is leaner, adding breadcrumbs helps keep the patties moist while grilling.

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
• 1 small jalapeño, diced
• 4 burger buns (or lettuce wraps/pretzel rolls)
• ½ cup yogurt-feta sauce (or any cooling dip)

1. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until combined. Fold in cheddar cubes and diced jalapeños. Shape into four patties.
2. Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temp of 165°F.
3. Toast the buns or swap them for lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
4. Serve the burgers with yogurt-feta sauce for a cool contrast to the spicy jalapeños.
5. Want a vegetarian twist? Try grilled eggplant patties with the same toppings for a delicious meat-free alternative!

These easy, flavorful burgers are guaranteed to be the star of your Memorial Day cookout(fight me). Whether you go for beefy richness or a cheesy chicken bite, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple to make and full of bold flavors!

The grill isn’t just for burgers (steak lovers, enter!). I also got some standout main dishes that are packed with flavor and easy-to-master techniques. So now you can host like a pro without the stress, but probably more grease.

Let’s check it out.

These tender, smoky ribs use the famous 3-2-1 method to lock in flavor and ensure they literally fall off the bone. Plus, we’ll explore regional BBQ sauces to find your perfect match!

• 1 rack of baby back ribs
• 2 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• ½ cup apple juice
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, or your favorite)
• 1 tbsp liquid smoke (optional, for oven method)

1. Prep the ribs by removing the membrane from the back. Rub with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Smoke the ribs uncovered at 225°F for 3 hours (or bake at 275°F for 3 hours if no smoker).
3. Wrap the ribs in foil, add apple juice, and cook for another 2 hours.
4. Unwrap, brush with BBQ sauce, and grill or broil for 1 hour, basting occasionally for a sticky glaze.
5. Pro Tip: Save the drippings to season baked beans for extra smoky goodness!

These sticky, caramelized skewers are packed with bold sweet and spicy flavors from Korean gochujang paste and sesame oil. Marinating the chicken for 24 hours makes a huge difference in flavor!

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
• ¼ cup gochujang paste
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• Bamboo skewers, soaked overnight

1. Mix gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and rice vinegar to make a marinade.
2. Toss the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours.
3. Thread chicken onto soaked bamboo skewers. Grill over medium heat, basting with reserved marinade, for 6-8 minutes per side.
4. Pro Tip: Serve with quick-pickled veggies (carrots, cucumbers, and radishes) for a crunchy contrast.

Rainy day plan? Broil skewers 6 inches from heat, turning every 5 minutes for caramelized edges and a sticky-sweet crunch!

Not a fan of heavy meats? This bright, zesty salmon is packed with flavor and heart-healthy benefits. The citrus marinade keeps the fish moist, while a quick grill time makes this dish perfect for busy hosts.

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

1. Marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and cook another 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve with grilled asparagus and quinoa salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tip: If grilling directly on the grates makes you nervous, use a grill mat or foil to keep the salmon from breaking apart. Yes, thank me later.

How about your vegan friends? Worry no more. i have main dish that’s still hearty and satisfying for them. This grilled flatbread is loaded with smoky vegetables, creamy hummus, and tangy feta for a perfect summer meal.

• 2 naan or flatbreads
• ½ cup hummus (garlic or roasted red pepper)
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze

1. Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and onion in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the veggies over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly charred.
3. Warm the flatbreads on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
4. Spread each flatbread with hummus, then top with grilled veggies, feta, and balsamic glaze.
5. Slice and serve warm with a side of Greek salad!

Pro Tip: Want to make it heartier? Add grilled chickpeas or tofu for extra protein!

Your memorial day recipes will become more balance and perfect if you will add some greens on the dish. Hold on! Before you react, I want to let you know that these are not your ordinary pasta salad. So, feel free to take note of the recipes below.

This crunchy, tangy slaw gets a delicious boost from sweet dates, salty peanuts, and fresh mint. Massaging the cabbage with salt softens it just right, while a zesty lime dressing ties everything together.

• ½ head red cabbage, thinly sliced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup chopped dates
• ⅓ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves (or basil)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Juice of 1 lime

1. Massage the cabbage with salt for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Add dates, peanuts, and mint to the bowl.
3. In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and lime juice.
4. Toss everything together and let sit for 30 minutes before serving to meld the flavors.
5. Pro Tip: Double the recipe—it vanishes fast at BBQs!

This juicy, refreshing salad brings together the best summer flavors: sweet watermelon, ripe peaches, and crisp cucumber. A sprinkle of Tajín spice adds a zingy, sweet-heat kick, while feta cheese provides a creamy contrast.

• 3 cups watermelon, cubed
• 2 ripe peaches, sliced
• 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or almond-based feta for vegan)
• ½ tsp Tajín seasoning (or chili-lime salt)
• ¼ cup fresh basil or mint, chopped
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)

1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon, peaches, cucumber, and feta.
2. Sprinkle with Tajín seasoning and toss gently.
3. Garnish with basil or mint and drizzle with honey if desired.
4. Pro Tip: Serve in a hollowed-out watermelon for an eye-catching presentation!

Now, to make your table more interesting and, seriously, more Instagrammable, add some side dishes. Side dishes make or break your summer spread, and these bold, flavorful recipes are designed to complement grilled mains effortlessly.

This rich, caramelized take on baked beans gets a unique depth from molasses and root beer. Slow-cooked for smoky-sweet perfection, this dish is a must-have for BBQ lovers.

• 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup root beer
• ¼ cup molasses
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 4 slices bacon, chopped (or smoked coconut flakes for vegetarians)
• ½ cup chopped onions

1. Sauté bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, cook onions until soft, then add root beer, molasses, ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard, and smoked paprika.
3. Stir in beans and bacon, then transfer to a baking dish.
4. Bake at 325°F for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. Pro Tip: Let sit overnight—the flavors deepen beautifully! Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This tangy, bacon-infused potato salad is the perfect side for rich grilled meats. Unlike traditional mayo-based versions, this one stays fresh and light, making it ideal for hot summer days.

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• ½ cup diced onions
• ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a milder taste)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes), then drain and let cool slightly.
2. Cook bacon in a pan until crispy, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté onions, then add vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper, stirring until combined.
4. Toss warm potatoes in the warm dressing, then fold in bacon and parsley.
5. Pro Tip: Use waxy potatoes so they hold their shape when tossed. Reduce vinegar and add honey mustard for kid-friendly appeal!

Tender grilled artichokes with a zesty lemon-basil vinaigrette make for an elegant and flavorful summer side. This dish is perfect for those who love a mix of smoky and citrusy flavors.

• 4 large artichokes, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional topping: ¼ cup shaved Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative

1. Steam artichokes for 20-25 minutes until tender, then pat dry.
2. Brush cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill cut-side down over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until charred.
4. Whisk together lemon juice, basil, garlic, and olive oil for the vinaigrette.
5. Drizzle vinaigrette over the grilled artichokes before serving.
6. Pro Tip: Serve on slate boards with grilled lemon wedges for a rustic touch!

This grilled corn recipe takes a classic summer staple and gives it an elevated, gourmet twist with a flavorful basil Parmesan drizzle.

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• ¼ cup shaved Parmesan
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (for Mexican-style option)
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill directly on grates for 10-12 minutes, turning often for even char marks.
4. For Mexican-style elote, slather with mayo, sprinkle with cotija cheese, and dust with chili powder.
5. For Italian-inspired corn, drizzle with basil oil and top with shaved Parmesan.
6. Pro Tip: Marinate corn in olive oil and basil for 30+ minutes before grilling to enhance flavor!

Bonus Tip:

Using smaller veggies like cherry tomatoes or asparagus? Use a perforated grill pan so they cook evenly without falling through the grates!

Your memorial day menu will never be complete without the final touch of some tasty desserts. Just by the thoght of it, I already now that you’re actually craving to grab these recipes now.

So, the wait is over, feel free to save it.

This festive pie celebrates summer berries in a stunning flag design, making it the perfect patriotic dessert for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July.

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1½ cups fresh blueberries
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Optional: Whipped cream or coconut cream for topping

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix strawberries, blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lime zest.
3. Roll out pie crust and press into a pie dish. Chill for 15 minutes.
4. Pour the berry mixture into the crust. Arrange strawberries on one side and blueberries on the other for a flag-like effect.
5. Create a lattice crust with strips of dough (or use crumble for a rustic look).
6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden.
7. Pro Tip: Pre-bake the crust a day prior for extra crispness. Serve with whipped cream swirls for added flair!

Smoky, caramelized peaches with drizzled honey and creamy vanilla ice cream make for a simple yet elegant dessert.

• 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tbsp local honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream (or bourbon pecan for a twist)
• Optional: Edible flowers (like pansies) for garnish

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Brush peach halves with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Grill cut-side down for 3-4 minutes until caramelized. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with flaky salt.
5. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.
6. Pro Tip: Broil instead of grilling if it’s a rainy day—just watch closely to prevent burning.

This no-fuss dessert practically makes itself—just layer the ingredients and bake! Simple, right? Why not try it for tonight’s dinner?

• 1 can cherry or peach pie filling
• 1 box yellow or white cake mix
• ½ cup melted butter
• ½ cup chopped nuts or coconut (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread pie filling evenly in a greased baking dish.
3. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over the fruit—no mixing needed!
4. Drizzle melted butter on top, covering as much dry mix as possible.
5. Add chopped nuts or coconut if using.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Pro Tip:

For an adults-only twist, mix 1-2 tbsp bourbon into the fruit filling before layering. Kids? Add rainbow sprinkles to the dry mix for extra fun!

A nostalgic classic, this cool and creamy dessert is always a hit.

• 1 box vanilla wafers
• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box vanilla pudding mix (prepared as per package instructions)
• 1½ cups whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)

1. Layer vanilla wafers on the bottom of a pie dish.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top.
3. Pour prepared pudding over the layers, smoothing it out.
4. Chill for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld.
5. Top with whipped cream just before serving for a light, fluffy finish.

Pro Tip:

• Gluten-free? Use almond flour wafers instead of traditional vanilla wafers.
• For an extra treat, serve in individual mason jars so guests can customize toppings like chocolate shavings or caramel drizzle.
• Extra-ripe bananas add natural sweetness, meaning less added sugar is needed!

We hope these recipes bring joy to your table and create moments worth repeating. From smoky grilled favorites to refreshing salads, each dish is designed to make hosting effortless, whether it’s a cookout or a formal gathering. Pair these dishes with chips and a nice wine for a complete memorial day menu experience.

Snap photos of your spread—they’ll inspire next year’s menu. Share extras with neighbors or freeze leftovers for easy meals later. Always check internal temps for safety, especially with grilled meats.

The best gatherings blend good food with laughter and connection. As you celebrate with family, take a moment to honor those who serve our country. Their sacrifices make these sweet moments possible.