Fire up the grill, and gather your family and friends for a Memorial Day celebration! This collection of All-Amercian Recipes has everything from drinks and appetizers to BBQ sauces, main dishes, and desserts, along with helpful tips for hosting!
In This Post
How I Plan a Celebration Menu That Works
When I’m getting ready to host a big celebration, I pause and ask myself a few tried-and-true questions to make sure I’m not overdoing it:
- What dishes can I fix ahead of time and tuck in the fridge or freezer?
- How much cooking will I be doing once folks start showing up?
- Am I serving food that’s friendly, familiar, and something everybody will feel good about piling on their plate?
Hosting Tips to Make Your Memorial Day Party a Success
After hosting more backyard gatherings than I can count, I’ve learned a few simple tricks that always make the day run smoother. These tips help cut down on stress, keep your food fresh, and let you actually enjoy the party right along with your guests! Here are four quick tips I swear by:
- Stock up on extra ice. You’ll need more than you think—grab two extra bags so drinks stay cold all day long.
- Use disposable partyware. It makes cleanup a breeze and adds a fun, festive touch with themed plates and napkins.
- Keep salad dressing separate. Toss salads right before serving so they stay fresh and crisp.
- Watch the clock on dairy. Don’t leave dressings, dips, or creamy sides out for more than 2 hours in the sun.
You know I like to do things easy and stress-free, so choose recipes that work for you! As tempting as it is to go overboard with your cooking, you’ll spread yourself too thin. In the long run, choosing tried-and-true, easy-to-make recipes with great flavors is better. I’ve compiled this collection of the best recipes to help you make this the best Memorial Day ever!
Easy To Make Appetizers and Drinks
Hosting Tip: Don’t Skimp on the Ice
When you’re hosting a party, you’ll always need more ice than you think you will. I recommend buying at least 2 more bags than you were originally planning.
Make Cleanup Easy with Disposable Party Supplies
Skip the post-party pileup. Stock up on themed plates, napkins, and utensils to make setup festive and cleanup fast.
Homemade BBQ Sauces
Make-Ahead Salads
Keep Salads Fresh by Serving Dressing on the Side
Store dressing separately and toss just before serving for that fresh, crunchy bite every guest will appreciate.
Pasta Salads For A Crowd
Food Safety Tip: Watch the Clock on Dairy-Based Dishes
Warm weather and dairy don’t mix for long. Keep dressings, dips, and creamy dishes out for no more than 2 hours max.
Best Side Dishes For A Cookout
Memorial Day Main Dishes
Delicious Desserts For Summer
Even though we will be celebrating with family and friends, we always stop to remember the real reason for this special day ~ honoring the men and women who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. I am so very thankful to those who chose the country over self and have given all for my freedom.
Happy Memorial Day!
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