With the unofficial kickoff to summer right around the corner, now is the perfect moment to start planning a crowd-pleasing Memorial Day menu. Long weekends, sunshine, and outdoor gatherings call for food that’s easy, festive, and full of flavor.
To help you get ready, I’ve gathered 21 of our favorite Memorial Day recipes in one place.
This collection covers everything you need for a memorable cookout, from fresh appetizers and vibrant salads to classic sides like potato salad, refreshing drinks, indulgent desserts, and hearty mains.
You’ll find options that pair perfectly with grilled burgers and dishes that shine all on their own.
These recipes aren’t just for one holiday, either. They’re the kind of reliable favorites you’ll want to bring out again and again for backyard barbecues, picnics, and casual summer get-togethers.
I already know several of these will be on repeat at my table all season long — and I hope you discover a few new go-to summer favorites too.
21. Blueberry Cream Pie – Memorial Day Make-ahead Dessert Idea
Why settle for either fruit pie or cream pie when you can enjoy the best parts of both in one showstopping dessert? This blueberry cream pie layers a buttery crust, silky vanilla custard, and a vibrant blueberry topping for a perfectly balanced bite.
The juicy blueberries add freshness and a touch of tartness, while the smooth custard brings richness and comfort.
This recipe is made in three simple stages—crust, cream filling, and fruit topping—but it does require patience, as each layer needs time to chill and set properly.
That make-ahead nature actually makes it ideal for holidays and gatherings, since you can prepare it in advance and serve it stress-free when guests arrive.
20. Red Sangria – Refreshing Summer Drink
Sangria is a beloved Spanish wine punch with roots stretching back to ancient civilizations.
Early Greeks and Romans mixed wine with water, sugar, and spices to make drinking water safer, and over time this practice evolved into what we now recognize as sangria.
While wine-based drinks exist across Europe, only Spain and Portugal can officially market theirs as sangria today.
There’s no single “correct” recipe, but traditional versions typically include red wine, sugar, fresh fruit, and a splash of brandy or orange liqueur, sometimes finished with soda water.
Light, fruity, and endlessly customizable, red sangria is a summer staple that’s perfect for warm evenings and festive gatherings.
19. Halfsies Chicken – Perfect Memorial Day Main Dish!
This is the recipe my family turns to whenever we’re hosting friends or relatives—it’s practically automatic at this point. Halfsies Chicken is simple, flavorful, and nearly impossible to mess up.
The magic lies in the marinade, which uses just four ingredients, all measured at half portions—half a cup, half a tablespoon, and so on—making it incredibly easy to remember.
You simply toss everything together with the chicken, let it marinate overnight, and let time do the work. The result is tender, juicy chicken packed with flavor, perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
18. Easy Fruit and Yogurt Parfait With Granola – Delicious and Healthy Breakfast!
This fruit and yogurt parfait is a simple yet nourishing way to start your day. Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh fruit, and crunchy granola, it’s both satisfying and nutrient-rich.
One of the best things about parfaits is how adaptable they are—you can use whatever fruit is in season or already in your fridge. They’re quick to assemble, visually appealing, and perfect for busy mornings, brunches, or even a light dessert.
Whether you’re focused on balanced nutrition or just want something delicious and fresh, this parfait checks all the boxes.
17. Berry Keto Bundt Cake – Best Memorial Day Dessert
This berry-studded keto bundt cake is a beautiful and delicious option for patriotic celebrations like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July.
Moist, tender, and naturally low-carb, it’s decorated with a drizzle of melted white chocolate blended with coconut oil and topped with fresh berries for a red, white, and blue finish.
The presentation is impressive, yet the process is surprisingly simple. Just melt the chocolate in short microwave bursts, drizzle, decorate, and serve. It’s proof that festive desserts can be both visually stunning and diet-friendly.
16. Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon-herb Dressing
As BBQ season kicks off, this Greek-inspired pasta salad offers a lighter alternative to traditional creamy sides.
Packed with fresh vegetables and classic Mediterranean flavors, it’s tossed in a bright lemon-herb dressing that keeps everything fresh and vibrant.
Inspired by the ingredients of a classic Greek salad, this dish is perfect for warm spring and summer days. It travels well, pairs beautifully with grilled meats, and adds a refreshing element to any cookout spread.
A guaranteed hit for guests looking for something flavorful but not heavy.
15. Red, White, and Blue Kale Salad Recipe for BBQ
This colorful kale salad is a festive and wholesome addition to any patriotic celebration. Featuring fruit, crunchy croutons, and hearty kale, it balances freshness with texture.
While BBQs are often heavy on indulgent foods, this salad brings in much-needed greens without sacrificing flavor. It’s easy to prepare, holds up well during travel, and looks stunning on the table.
Healthy, vibrant, and celebratory, it’s a side dish that feels just as special as it is nourishing.
14. Hatch Peppers Stuffed with Ground Turkey
These stuffed Hatch peppers are bold, smoky, and packed with flavor. Filled with seasoned ground turkey, black beans, corn, salsa, and topped with melty Monterey Jack cheese, they make a satisfying main or hearty side.
Roasting the Hatch peppers is incredibly simple—just broil until charred, steam them briefly, and peel. Once prepared, they can be added to countless dishes, but stuffing them turns them into something truly special.
Perfect for spice lovers and anyone looking to elevate their dinner routine.
13. Farro Salad with Cranberries, Feta, and Pecans – Easy Make-ahead Side Dish Recipe Idea
This farro salad is an ideal make-ahead side dish that works just as well for holidays as it does for weekday lunches. Nutty farro is tossed with dried cranberries, tangy feta, crunchy pecans, and a light lemon dressing.
The flavors feel festive yet fresh, making the dish satisfying without being heavy. It stores beautifully, so you can prepare it in advance or enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Add grilled chicken on top and you’ve got a complete, balanced meal.
12. Easy One Pot Vegan Baked Beans Recipe
Smoky, sweet, and deeply comforting, these vegan baked beans are as easy as they are delicious. Made in just one pot, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
Beans are a cornerstone of a plant-based diet, and this dish makes it effortless to enjoy them regularly. Whether served as a BBQ side or a main dish, these baked beans deliver rich flavor that everyone—vegan or not—will appreciate.
Easy Vegan Baked Beans Recipe (1 Pot!)
11. 5-Ingredient Vegan Jalapeno Poppers – Perfect Memorial Day Appetizer!
Creamy, spicy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, these vegan jalapeño poppers are a guaranteed crowd favorite. With just five ingredients, they’re quick to assemble and perfect for game days, movie nights, or party appetizers.
The contrast between the heat of the peppers and the smooth filling makes them incredibly addictive. Even non-vegans will reach for seconds, making them a reliable go-to snack for any gathering.
10. Best Ever Macaroni Summer Salad
This macaroni salad is everything a summer side should be—creamy, tangy, packed with crunchy vegetables, and bursting with flavor.
The dressing is so good you’ll want to use it on other salads, too. It’s an excellent make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen and improve after chilling in the fridge.
Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, this salad consistently earns rave reviews and empty bowls.
9. Greek Pasta Salad for Memorial Day Cookout
Loaded with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and feta cheese, this Greek pasta salad is both filling and refreshing. It’s dressed with a simple homemade vinaigrette made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
The dressing is quick to mix and brings all the ingredients together beautifully. For convenience, store-bought dressing works too, making this recipe flexible and stress-free for busy hosting days.
8. KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe – Best Side Dish for Memorial Day Weekend!
Few side dishes are as iconic as KFC coleslaw. Creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly crunchy, it completes any fried chicken meal. This copycat version captures that familiar flavor, making it easy to recreate the experience at home.
While mashed potatoes and gravy may define KFC for some, the coleslaw has earned its own legendary status. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear just as quickly as the main dish.
7. Smoked Beef Ribs for Memorial Day Menu
These smoked beef ribs are tender, juicy, and practically fall off the bone. A homemade beef rub and a slow smoking method using fruitwood pellets or chips create deep, rich flavor. While they take time, the results are well worth the wait.
Serve them with classic barbecue sides for a meal that feels indulgent, comforting, and perfect for special occasions or long holiday weekends.
6. Crisp and Cheesy Instant Pot Taco Zucchini Boats
These taco-inspired zucchini boats prove that lighter meals can still be incredibly satisfying. Hollowed zucchini halves are filled with a savory, cheesy taco mixture and cooked quickly in the Instant Pot.
The result is a low-carb, veggie-packed alternative to traditional tacos that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Fast, convenient, and family-friendly, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something fun and wholesome.
5. Guacamole Without Cilantro, with Creamy Avocado, Crisp Onions, and Juicy Tomatoes!
Not everyone loves cilantro, and this guacamole proves you don’t need it for amazing flavor. Creamy avocado, crisp onions, and juicy tomatoes come together in a simple, fresh dip that’s perfect for chips or tacos.
With just a handful of ingredients, it’s quick to make and endlessly satisfying. Every bite delivers a balance of richness and freshness without overpowering herbs.
4. Honey Bourbon Grilled Chicken Skewers from Kansas City
These honey bourbon chicken skewers are sweet, smoky, and packed with classic barbecue flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for grilling season.
Inspired by Kansas City barbecue culture, this recipe reflects a love for bold flavors, good food, and gathering around the grill. Ideal for parties, cookouts, or relaxed summer dinners.
3. Extra Delicious Grilled Sausage Grazing Board
This grilled sausage grazing board turns a simple meal into something special. Smoked sausages, grilled vegetables, and bread come together to create a hearty, shareable spread.
Inspired by a nostalgic college staple, this version elevates the flavors while keeping the comfort intact. Everything is cooked on the grill, making it perfect for outdoor meals and casual entertaining.
2. Tomato-Basil and Vidalia Onion Salad – Memorial Day Recipe from Georgia
This fresh summer salad highlights sweet Georgia Vidalia onions, juicy grape tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Marinated in store-bought Italian dressing, it comes together in minutes and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again while Vidalia onions are in season.
Light, refreshing, and perfect for hot days.
1. Air Fryer Tomatoes for Memorial Day
These air fryer roasted tomatoes are bursting with Mediterranean flavor and ready in just 12 minutes. Juicy on the inside and lightly caramelized on the outside, they’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a simple side dish.
Once you try roasting tomatoes in the air fryer, you may never go back to the oven.
Quick, flavorful, and endlessly versatile.
20+ Easy Memorial Day Recipes for a Delicious Celebration
20+ easy Memorial Day recipes for a delicious celebration! Find burgers, salads, desserts & more perfect for your holiday weekend gathering.
Ingredients
- Blueberry Cream Pie - Memorial Day Make-ahead Dessert Idea
- Red Sangria - Refreshing Summer Drink
- Halfsies Chicken - Perfect Memorial Day Main Dish!
- Easy Fruit and Yogurt Parfait With Granola
- Berry Keto Bundt Cake
- Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon-herb Dressing
- Red, White, And Bleu Kale Salad Recipe
- Stuffed Hatch Peppers
- Farro Salad with Cranberries, Feta, and Pecans
- Easy Vegan Baked Beans Recipe (1 Pot!)
- 5-Ingredient Vegan Jalapeno Poppers
- Best Ever Macaroni Salad
- Greek Pasta Salad
- KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe
- Smoked Beef Ribs
- Instant Pot Taco Zucchini Boats
- Guacamole Without Cilantro
- Honey Bourbon Grilled Chicken Skewers
- Grilled Sausage Grazing Board
- Tomato-Basil and Vidalia Onion Salad
- Air Fryer Tomatoes
Instructions
- Choose any Memorial Day Recipes from the post that you like.
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Memorial Day Recipes and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!
I’m Anastasia and I’m a full-time blogger, online entrepreneur, and Pinterest marketing strategist. I help digital entrepreneurs and bloggers drive targeted traffic from Pinterest either through my online courses or through Pinterest consultancy.