Memorial Day is a time to honor those who’ve sacrificed for our freedom while gathering with loved ones to celebrate. This year, take your Memorial Day feast to the next level with these 10 incredible recipes that are as delicious as they are memorable. From savory baked goods to fresh salads and refreshing beverages, these dishes are perfect for a festive cookout, a cozy brunch, or a casual outdoor gathering.
Here’s a round-up of 10 Memorial Day recipes that will not only impress your guests but also ensure that your celebration stands out. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or mixing up refreshing drinks, these recipes will help you serve a memorable spread.
1. Zucchini Scarpaccia
Zucchini Scarpaccia is an Italian-style vegetable bake that’s light yet full of flavor. Featuring thinly sliced zucchini, fresh herbs, and a custard-like egg mixture, this dish is a perfect addition to your Memorial Day menu.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Eggs, Parmesan cheese, and flour
- Fresh thyme and basil
- Onion and garlic
Instructions:
- Slice the zucchini and sauté it with onions and garlic until soft.
- Whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese together, then pour over the zucchini mixture.
- Bake until the custard sets, and serve warm.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: Zucchini Scarpaccia is a healthy, savory dish that pairs well with grilled meats and fresh salads. It’s light enough for a warm-weather meal and satisfying enough to complement your barbecue spread.
See the Recipe for a step-by-step guide.
2. Layered Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits with Salted Honey Butter
Add a spicy kick to your Memorial Day spread with Layered Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits. These biscuits are made with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños, then topped with a drizzle of salted honey butter for the ultimate combination of flavors.
Ingredients:
- Flour, baking powder, and butter
- Cheddar cheese
- Jalapeños
- Honey and sea salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the biscuit dough by mixing dry ingredients and incorporating cold butter.
- Fold in the cheese and jalapeños, then bake until golden.
- Serve the biscuits warm with salted honey butter drizzled on top.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: These biscuits bring a touch of heat and richness, making them an excellent side for a summer feast. Pair them with grilled meats or enjoy them on their own.
See the Recipe to make them at home.
3. Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby
A Dutch baby pancake is the perfect dish to kick off your Memorial Day brunch. This Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby combines the freshness of blueberries with the bright zing of lemon, creating a light and fluffy breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
- Eggs, milk, and flour
- Fresh blueberries
- Lemon zest and juice
- Powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Whisk together eggs, milk, and flour, then pour into a hot skillet.
- Bake until puffed and golden, then top with fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: The light, airy texture and refreshing flavor of the Dutch baby are perfect for brunch or a casual Memorial Day breakfast.
See the Recipe for a detailed guide.
4. Asparagus and Goat Cheese Breakfast Tart
For a savory breakfast treat, try this Asparagus and Goat Cheese Breakfast Tart. This tart is made with a buttery pastry crust, tender asparagus, and creamy goat cheese, making it a perfect addition to your Memorial Day feast.
Ingredients:
- Puff pastry
- Fresh asparagus
- Goat cheese and eggs
- Fresh herbs (like thyme)
Instructions:
- Roll out the puff pastry and bake until golden.
- Sauté the asparagus and mix with goat cheese and beaten eggs.
- Pour the mixture into the tart shell and bake until set.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: This tart offers a delightful balance of creamy and fresh, with asparagus bringing a seasonal touch to your Memorial Day menu.
See the Recipe to prepare this perfect brunch dish.
5. Lemon and Blueberry Sheet Pan Pancakes
When you need to feed a crowd, these Lemon and Blueberry Sheet Pan Pancakes are a lifesaver. The bright lemon flavor and sweet blueberries make them a refreshing breakfast choice, while the sheet pan method makes it easy to serve many people at once.
Ingredients:
- Pancake mix or homemade batter
- Fresh blueberries
- Lemon zest and juice
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
- Pour the pancake batter onto a sheet pan and top with blueberries and lemon zest.
- Bake until fluffy and golden, then slice into squares.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: These pancakes are easy to make, and the sheet pan method makes serving large groups a breeze. The fruity, zesty flavor will energize you for the day’s festivities.
See the Recipe to make this simple yet delicious dish.
6. Breakfast Biscuit Bundt Cake
If you love biscuits and breakfast cakes, this Breakfast Biscuit Bundt Cake is a must-try. Made with layers of fluffy biscuits and a hint of cinnamon, this cake is perfect for Memorial Day brunch or even a casual picnic.
Ingredients:
- Biscuits (store-bought or homemade)
- Cinnamon, sugar, and butter
- Eggs and vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Layer the biscuit dough in a bundt pan, sprinkling cinnamon and sugar between the layers.
- Bake until golden, then drizzle with icing for a sweet finish.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: The breakfast bundt cake is an easy yet impressive way to enjoy a biscuit-inspired treat. Perfect for brunch or as an afternoon snack.
See the Recipe to try it yourself.
7. Asparagus Pasta
For a lighter yet flavorful Memorial Day meal, Asparagus Pasta is the perfect option. The combination of tender asparagus, al dente pasta, and a garlic-infused olive oil sauce makes this dish fresh, vibrant, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Fresh asparagus
- Pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- Garlic and olive oil
- Parmesan cheese and lemon zest
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta and sauté the asparagus with garlic and olive oil.
- Toss the pasta and asparagus together, then garnish with Parmesan and lemon zest.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: This pasta is a simple, seasonal dish that celebrates the best of spring produce. It’s light but flavorful, making it an excellent side or main dish for your holiday feast.
See the Recipe for more details.
8. Sugar Snap Pea Salad with Lemon and Dill
A fresh and crunchy salad is always a welcome addition to any Memorial Day meal. This Sugar Snap Pea Salad with Lemon and Dill is refreshing, with the crispness of sugar snap peas and the bright flavors of lemon and dill.
Ingredients:
- Sugar snap peas
- Lemon juice and zest
- Fresh dill
- Olive oil and honey
Instructions:
- Blanch the sugar snap peas to maintain their crisp texture.
- Toss them with lemon, dill, olive oil, and honey for a light and tangy dressing.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: This salad is a great side dish that’s light, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavors. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or other barbecue favorites.
See the Recipe to create this fresh salad.
9. Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole
Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that adds a spicy twist to the traditional potato casserole. Creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and the heat from jalapeños come together in this unforgettable casserole.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes
- Jalapeños, cream cheese, and cheddar
- Bacon and green onions
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes and mash them with cream cheese and cheese.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños and bacon, then bake until golden.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: This casserole is rich and indulgent, perfect for those who love a little heat with their comfort food. It’s a great addition to any cookout or picnic.
See the Recipe for step-by-step instructions.
10. Strawberry Jalapeño Margarita
For a refreshing drink to accompany your Memorial Day meal, this Strawberry Jalapeño Margarita adds a kick to the classic margarita. The combination of sweet strawberries and spicy jalapeños is perfect for sipping on a warm holiday afternoon.
Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- Jalapeños, lime juice, and tequila
- Simple syrup and ice
Instructions:
- Muddle fresh strawberries and jalapeños, then mix with lime juice and tequila.
- Shake well, then strain into a glass with ice and garnish with a strawberry slice.
Why It’s Perfect for Memorial Day: This margarita is a unique twist on a classic and will be a hit at your holiday gathering. It’s sweet, spicy, and perfect for sipping outdoors.
See the Recipe to make your own.
FAQs About Memorial Day Recipes
Q: Can I prepare these Memorial Day recipes in advance?
Yes! Many of these dishes can be prepared ahead of time. For instance, the Zucchini Scarpaccia and Jalapeño Popper Potato Casserole can be made a day before, then reheated on the day of your event. The Strawberry Jalapeño Margarita can be prepped and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Q: Are these recipes good for a large group?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd. For example, the Lemon and Blueberry Sheet Pan Pancakes are perfect for feeding a large group, and the Layered Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits can be made in batches.
Q: Can I make these recipes vegetarian?
Yes, many of these recipes are already vegetarian, such as the Asparagus Pasta and Sugar Snap Pea Salad with Lemon and Dill. For others, you can substitute plant-based ingredients for meat and dairy.
Conclusion
These 10 Memorial Day recipes are the perfect way to celebrate with friends and family. From fresh salads to hearty casseroles and refreshing cocktails, each dish brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back barbecue or an elegant brunch, these recipes will ensure that your Memorial Day feast is one to remember. Enjoy, and happy Memorial Day!