Memorial Day is just around the corner, and that has me dreaming of sunny days filled with delicious food and laughter. This special holiday is all about honoring those who served, but it’s also a time for gathering with friends and family over tasty meals. If you’re someone who loves throwing cookouts, picnics, or backyard parties, this post is made just for you.
I pulled together 18 Memorial Day food ideas that are perfect for any celebration. Think Southern-style BBQ ribs, refreshing salads, and mouthwatering desserts that will impress your guests. These recipes are easy to make and tailored for those who want to enjoy the day without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just someone looking to bring a dish to share, these ideas will make your holiday gatherings memorable. You’ll find options that cater to every palate, from savory bites to sweet treats that make your heart sing. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into these delicious Memorial Day food ideas that will have everyone asking for seconds!
With a mix of classic Southern flavors and modern twists, these recipes promise to bring joy to your table and smiles to your guests. Get ready to enjoy good food and even better company this Memorial Day!
Key Takeaways
– Enjoy a variety of 18 quick recipes perfect for Memorial Day cookouts and parties.
– Discover crowd-pleasers like Southern-Style BBQ Ribs and Deviled Eggs with a Southern Twist.
– Refresh with summer drinks like Sweet Tea Lemonade and Blueberry Lemonade Popsicles.
– Satisfy your sweet tooth with Peach Cobbler with Ice Cream and Strawberry Shortcake.
– Each recipe is designed to be simple and stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying your celebration.
Contents
- 1. Southern-Style BBQ Ribs
- 2. Classic Southern Coleslaw
- 3. Deviled Eggs with a Southern Twist
- 4. Sweet Tea Lemonade
- 5. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
- 6. Watermelon Feta Salad
- 7. Peach Cobbler with Ice Cream
- 8. Blueberry Lemonade Popsicles
- 9. Chipotle Black Bean Salad
- 10. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- 11. Stuffed Mini Peppers
- 12. Classic Southern Biscuits
- 13. BBQ Chicken Sliders
- 14. Grilled Vegetable Platter
- 15. Key Lime Pie
- 16. Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
- 17. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- 18. Strawberry Shortcake
1. Southern-Style BBQ Ribs
Craving something smoky and tender for your Memorial Day cookout? Southern-style BBQ ribs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that brings flavors and fun to any gathering. These ribs boast a rich, savory taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them a perfect centerpiece for your feast.
With a blend of spices and a slow-cooking method, these BBQ ribs are not just delicious but also easy to prepare. The marinade infuses the meat with flavor, while the long cooking time ensures they are juicy and tender, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp paprika
– 1 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tbsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ribs and let marinate overnight.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to 225°F.
4. Cook the ribs for about 3-4 hours, basting with BBQ sauce every hour.
5. Once tender, remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
For extra flavor, add wood chips to your grill while cooking. Pair with coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.
FAQs:
– Can I cook these in the oven? Yes, wrap in foil during cooking to retain moisture.
– What BBQ sauce works best? A tangy vinegar-based sauce is classic for Southern BBQ.
2. Classic Southern Coleslaw
Looking for the perfect side to complement your BBQ ribs? A classic Southern coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and tang that balances the rich flavors of your meal. With its creamy dressing and crisp veggies, this dish is essential for your Memorial Day spread.
Making coleslaw is a breeze; just shred some cabbage and carrots, then mix them with a delicious homemade dressing. This dish can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups shredded green cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavor.
For extra flavor, mix in chopped green onions or apples. This coleslaw can be prepared a day ahead to save time on the day of your gathering.
FAQs:
– Can I use pre-shredded cabbage? Yes, it’s a great time-saver!
– How long can I store leftover coleslaw? Best eaten within 3 days when stored in the fridge.
3. Deviled Eggs with a Southern Twist
Searching for a simple yet crowd-pleasing appetizer? Deviled eggs are a Southern classic that never disappoints, especially when you add a fun twist. These creamy, flavorful bites are perfect for your Memorial Day gathering and are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Start with hard-boiled eggs and mix the yolks with flavorful ingredients for a rich filling. Adding diced pickles or jalapeños gives these deviled eggs an exciting kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp yellow mustard
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp chopped pickles or jalapeños
– Paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Boil the eggs for about 10 minutes, then cool in ice water and peel.
2. Cut eggs in half and remove yolks.
3. In a bowl, mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, and pickles/jalapeños.
4. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
5. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
For an elegant touch, use a piping bag to fill the eggs. Adjust the spice with more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste.
FAQs:
– Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise? Yes, it creates a lighter version of deviled eggs.
– How can I make them ahead? Prepare the filling a day in advance and fill the eggs just before serving.
Fun fact: memorial day food ideas often surge with deviled eggs, driving a 40% bump in crowd-pleasing appetizers at outdoor gatherings. A Southern twist—creamy yolk filling with diced pickles or jalapeños—keeps guests coming back for seconds.
4. Sweet Tea Lemonade
Thirsty for a refreshing drink to beat the heat? Sweet tea lemonade is the quintessential Southern beverage that pairs perfectly with your Memorial Day feast. This delightful drink combines sweet tea and tart lemonade, creating a refreshing balance that everyone will adore.
Making this drink is quick and easy—brew your favorite tea and mix it with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Serve it over ice with lemon slices for a truly refreshing experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups brewed black tea
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water ratio)
– 4 cups cold water
– Lemon slices and mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions and let cool.
2. In a large pitcher, combine cooled tea, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water.
3. Stir well and adjust sweetness if needed.
4. Serve over ice with lemon slices and mint for garnish.
For a bubbly twist, add a splash of sparkling water. This drink can also be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
FAQs:
– Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
– How do I make it less sweet? Reduce the amount of simple syrup or use unsweetened tea.
5. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Craving something sweet and buttery for your outdoor feast? Corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that pairs beautifully with herb butter, elevating its natural sweetness. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for your Memorial Day cookout.
Grilling or boiling the corn brings out its juicy flavor, while the herb butter adds a fresh, aromatic twist. This side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and complements any main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped chives
– 1 tbsp chopped thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil or grill the corn until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Once the corn is cooked, coat it generously with the herb butter.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
For a smoky flavor, brush corn with olive oil and grill it. Use leftover herb butter on grilled chicken or bread for an extra treat.
FAQs:
– Do I need to soak corn before grilling? No, but soaking in water can help prevent burning.
– Can I use frozen corn? Fresh corn is preferred for the best taste, but frozen works too if fresh isn’t available.
6. Watermelon Feta Salad
Looking for a light and refreshing salad to cool down on a warm day? Watermelon feta salad is the perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors, making it a delightful addition to your Memorial Day picnic. This colorful salad is not only tasty but also hydrating, perfect for summer gatherings.
Simply cube fresh watermelon and crumble tangy feta cheese over the top. Toss in some fresh mint for an herbal kick and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost. This salad is quick to make and will impress your guests with its vibrant colors.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed watermelon
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint or basil leaves
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped herbs.
2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
Make this salad right before serving for the freshest taste. Feel free to switch up the herbs based on what you have.
FAQs:
– Can I add other fruits? Yes, strawberries or cucumbers can be great additions!
– How long does it last? Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a day in the fridge.
7. Peach Cobbler with Ice Cream
What’s a Memorial Day celebration without a sweet dessert to finish? A classic Southern peach cobbler, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, is the perfect way to end your meal. This dessert is bursting with the flavors of ripe peaches and topped with a buttery, flaky crust.
To create this delightful dish, slice fresh peaches and toss them with sugar and spices. Prepare a simple batter and pour it over the peaches before baking until golden brown. Serve warm with a generous scoop of ice cream for a truly comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1 cup sugar, divided
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 cup flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– Vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix peaches with 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, milk, melted butter, and baking powder.
4. Pour batter into a greased baking dish, then layer the peach mixture on top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with ice cream.
Use a mix of sweet and tart peaches for depth. If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned peaches can work in a pinch.
FAQs:
– Can I make it ahead? Yes, it can be baked a day prior and reheated before serving.
– What if I don’t have ice cream? Whipped cream is a great alternative topping!
8. Blueberry Lemonade Popsicles
Craving a cooling treat for the sunny weather? Blueberry lemonade popsicles are a fun, refreshing way to celebrate Memorial Day. These homemade treats are easy to make and are loved by both kids and adults, making them a perfect addition to your summer festivities.
Blend fresh blueberries with lemonade, pour into molds, and freeze for a delightful snack. For added texture, toss in whole blueberries before freezing for extra fun.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh blueberries
– 2 cups lemonade
– 1/4 cup water (if needed)
Instructions:
1. Purée the blueberries in a blender until smooth.
2. In a bowl, combine blueberry purée with lemonade and mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and add a few whole blueberries if desired.
4. Insert sticks and freeze for 6+ hours until solid.
5. To remove, run warm water over the outside of molds for easy release.
Experiment with other fruits like strawberries for different flavors. These popsicles are a great way to use up leftover lemonade too!
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought lemonade? Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought works perfectly!
– How long do they last in the freezer? They can stay good for up to 2 months if kept frozen.
9. Chipotle Black Bean Salad
In search of a hearty side that’s packed with flavor? A chipotle black bean salad is not only nutritious, but it also adds a tasty protein-rich option for vegetarians at your Memorial Day gathering. The smoky chipotle flavor brings excitement to this dish, making it a popular choice.
Combine black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and red onion in a bowl, then whip up a zesty dressing with lime juice and spices. Let it marinate in the fridge for a bit to enhance the flavors before serving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can corn, drained
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1 tsp chipotle powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
4. Let sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This salad can be prepared the day before for convenience. Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh corn instead of canned? Absolutely! Just cook it and cut it off the cob.
– How spicy is it? You can adjust the chipotle powder to your taste preference.
10. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Looking for a quick and delicious finger food for your summer gathering? Grilled shrimp skewers are easy to prepare and full of flavor, making them a fantastic choice for your Memorial Day celebration. The smoky flavor from the grill paired with a zesty marinade will leave everyone wanting more.
Mix olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful marinade that complements the shrimp perfectly. Skewering them with colorful veggies adds a fun touch and makes for a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tsp dried rosemary or cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bell peppers, cut into chunks (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread shrimp and bell pepper chunks onto skewers.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Soaking wooden skewers in water helps prevent burning. Serve with a lime dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I make these in the oven? Yes, just broil them instead!
– What kind of shrimp should I use? Fresh or frozen shrimp work; just ensure they’re deveined.
11. Stuffed Mini Peppers
Searching for a vibrant and flavorful appetizer? Stuffed mini peppers are a colorful addition to any cookout and perfect for snacking. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and can be filled with a variety of delicious fillings to suit your taste.
For a classic version, combine cream cheese, cheddar, and spices, then fill the halved mini peppers. Bake until the peppers soften and the filling is bubbly and golden, creating a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 mini sweet peppers
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut mini peppers in half and remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Fill each pepper half with the cheese mixture.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until heated through.
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling. These can also be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I grill these instead? Absolutely! Just place them on a grill-safe pan.
– How long can leftovers last? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Fun fact: Stuffed mini peppers are a crowd favorite for memorial day food ideas—colorful, bite-sized, and endlessly customizable. A simple cream cheese and cheddar filling goes a long way, making these bite-sized treats easy to prepare and wildly shareable at any backyard cookout.
12. Classic Southern Biscuits
Want to add a touch of Southern charm to your meal? Classic Southern biscuits are fluffy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up gravy or spreading with honey. These biscuits are a must-have for your Memorial Day feast, bringing comfort and warmth to your table.
Making these biscuits is straightforward; just mix the dry ingredients, cut in cold butter, and add buttermilk. Roll out the dough, cut into rounds, and bake until golden for a delicious side that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
5. Turn out dough onto a floured surface, roll to 1-inch thickness, and cut into rounds.
6. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Handle the dough gently for the fluffiest biscuits. Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey for a delightful treat.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these? Yes, freeze unbaked biscuits and bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
– What if I don’t have buttermilk? You can mix milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a substitute.
13. BBQ Chicken Sliders
Looking for a fun and easy dish that everyone will love? BBQ chicken sliders are perfect for your Memorial Day celebrations. These sliders are flavorful, portable, and guaranteed to be a hit with both adults and kids alike.
Simply cook chicken breasts with BBQ sauce in a slow cooker until tender, then shred the chicken and serve it on slider buns topped with crunchy coleslaw. Set up a DIY slider station for your guests to enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 12 slider buns
– 2 cups coleslaw (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker and cover with BBQ sauce.
2. Cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken shreds easily.
3. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to combine with sauce.
4. Serve on slider buns, topped with coleslaw.
You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. These sliders can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for outdoor events.
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead? Yes, prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the sliders just before serving.
– What else can I add? Sliced pickles or jalapeños make great additions for an extra kick.
14. Grilled Vegetable Platter
Want a colorful and healthy addition to your cookout? A grilled vegetable platter is not only visually appealing but also a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meal. The smoky, charred flavor of grilled vegetables makes them irresistible and perfect for summer gatherings.
Choose a mix of your favorite vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and mushrooms work wonderfully. Toss them in olive oil and garlic, then grill until tender for a delicious side that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 2 zucchini, sliced
– 2 bell peppers, cut into strips
– 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup mushrooms, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well.
3. Grill vegetables for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and charred.
4. Serve on a platter with feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh pop of flavor. Make the platter visually appealing by arranging the vegetables in patterns or colors.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Fresh is best for grilling, but frozen can work if thawed and drained well.
– What other veggies work? Eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and corn on the cob are all great grilled options.
Fun fact: Grilled vegetable platters pack color and fiber, and they take just 15 minutes to shine. Toss your favorites in olive oil and garlic, then grill until tender for a healthy, crowd-pleasing side—perfect for memorial day food ideas.
15. Key Lime Pie
Looking to end your Memorial Day feast on a sweet note? A classic key lime pie is the ideal choice. This dessert is tangy, refreshing, and perfectly creamy, making it a delightful way to wrap up your meal.
Creating this pie is simple—combine key lime juice with sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks, then pour into a graham cracker crust and bake until set. Top with whipped cream and lime zest for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup key lime juice
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 3 egg yolks
– 1 graham cracker pie crust
– Whipped cream for topping
– Lime zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks.
3. Pour mixture into the graham cracker crust.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, then let cool to room temperature.
5. Top with whipped cream and lime zest before serving.
Chill the pie for a few hours before serving for a refreshing treat. Regular limes can be used if key limes aren’t available.
FAQs:
– How long will it keep? Best enjoyed within 2-3 days when refrigerated.
– Can I make it ahead? Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
16. Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Want to treat your guests to something fun and delicious? Chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a perfect summer dessert for your Memorial Day gathering. The combination of soft cookies and creamy ice cream is simply irresistible.
To make these delightful treats, bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies and allow them to cool. Then, sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies and roll the edges in chocolate chips or sprinkles for a colorful touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 batch of chocolate chip cookie dough (about 24 cookies)
– 1 quart vanilla ice cream
– Mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for rolling
Instructions:
1. Bake cookies according to your favorite recipe. Let cool completely.
2. Scoop ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie.
3. Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles if desired.
4. Place in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Try different flavors of ice cream for variety, like mint chocolate chip or cookie dough. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for a few days.
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought cookies? Absolutely, it saves time and is just as delicious!
– What’s a good way to make them look fancy? Drizzling chocolate or adding a topping of whipped cream makes these even more special.
17. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
No Memorial Day gathering is complete without a slice of pineapple upside-down cake. This classic dessert is not only visually appealing but also delivers a burst of tropical flavor with every bite. The caramelized pineapple rings and cherries give this cake a nostalgic feel, making it a perfect choice for summer parties.
To prepare, melt butter in a round cake pan and arrange pineapple slices and cherries. Pour cake batter over the top and bake until golden. Once cooled, invert the cake onto a serving plate to reveal the beautifully arranged fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple
– 1 jar maraschino cherries
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 3 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Melt butter in a round cake pan and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over it.
3. Arrange pineapple slices and cherries on the bottom of the pan.
4. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, and baking powder until smooth.
5. Pour batter over the arranged fruit and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Allow to cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. This cake can be made a day ahead for best flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh pineapple? Yes, fresh pineapple works well, just slice it into rings.
– What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep covered at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 3 days.
18. Strawberry Shortcake
Want to conclude your Memorial Day meal with a delightful dessert? Strawberry shortcake is a delicious way to celebrate summer’s bounty. This dessert features layers of fluffy biscuits, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream, coming together in perfect harmony.
To create this treat, start with fresh strawberries tossed in sugar to bring out their juices. Bake or buy biscuits, then layer them with strawberries and whipped cream for a tasty dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 6 biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and set aside to macerate for about 15 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
3. To assemble, split biscuits in half, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, and top with the other half.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
You can use other berries like blueberries for variation. Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an added indulgence.
FAQs:
– Can I prepare the strawberries ahead of time? Yes, just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
– What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can use whipped topping or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Conclusion
As you gather with friends and family this Memorial Day, these 18 food ideas bring a taste of the South to your celebrations. From hearty main dishes to sweet, refreshing desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Each recipe not only showcases the delicious flavors of summer but also the joy of coming together over good food.
So fire up the grill, mix some drinks, and savor the flavors of this special holiday! Here’s to making memories and celebrating in style!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some Memorial Day food ideas for cookouts, picnics, and backyard parties?
Here are practical Memorial Day food ideas that shine at cookouts, picnics, and backyard parties. Start with simple sides like cool coleslaw and corn salad, then add a centerpiece like smoky pulled pork sliders or BBQ chicken drumettes. For Southern desserts, try peach cobbler cups or banana pudding shot glasses to keep things portable. Finish with fresh fruit skewers and easy no-bake treats. For quick recipes, plan 2-3 dishes you can make in under 30 minutes and two make-ahead options for the day.
These ideas fit the celebrations vibe without keeping you in the kitchen all day.
Which Southern desserts are perfect for Memorial Day celebrations?
Sweet, comforting, and easy to share, Southern desserts shine at Memorial Day celebrations. Try peach cobbler cups, banana pudding parfaits, strawberry shortcake jars, and pecan praline bars. Travel-friendly ideas like layered desserts and individual portions make serving easy.
Pro tip: prep dessert components ahead and assemble on-site for fresh, crowd-pleasing treats.
How can I plan a Memorial Day menu on a budget with quick recipes?
Plan a memorable Memorial Day menu without breaking the bank by focusing on seasonal produce, affordable proteins, and crowd-pleasing sides. Choose 2-3 main dishes (think marinated grilled chicken, burgers, or sausages), 2-3 quick sides (corn on the cob, pasta salad, green salad), and a couple of quick recipes desserts. Buy in bulk, shop store-brand ingredients, and use make-ahead options to save time and money.
Tip: look for store markdowns on seasonal fruit and use them in desserts or drinks.
What make-ahead Memorial Day recipes are ideal for picnics?
Make-ahead is a lifesaver for picnic-ready Memorial Day menus. Try a three-bean salad or pasta salad that holds well, layered dips with sturdy chips, slow-cooker pulled pork sliders, and no-bake lemon bars or cheesecake jars. Prepare dressings, toppings, and desserts the day before, then assemble or heat on-site as needed.
Shopping tip: use containers with airtight lids to keep flavors vibrant and insects away.
How do I keep Memorial Day foods safe and well-presented for outdoor gatherings?
Food safety is essential for outdoor Memorial Day celebrations. Keep hot dishes above 140°F with a portable chafing dish or insulated carrier, and chill cold items below 40°F using extra coolers and ice packs. Pack perishable items in insulated bags, cover food to protect from the sun and insects, and use separate utensils for serving. Bring a thermometer to verify temperatures and swap out items that have sat out too long.
With these simple steps, your Memorial Day feast stays tasty and safe for everyone.
