When Memorial Day rolls around, it’s more than just a long weekend—it’s a chance to honor heroes, soak up sunshine, and bring everyone together over food that sings of summer. If you’re looking for Memorial Day feast recipes that will steal the show at your celebration, you’ve just found the ultimate lineup.
From fresh salads and charred veggies to nostalgic casseroles and sweet bites, we’ve rounded up ten unbeatable dishes that scream sunshine and good vibes. Whether you’re firing up the grill or laying out a big buffet spread, these recipes will hit the spot.
Let’s dig in!
1. Green Shakshuka
You’ve heard of classic shakshuka with tomatoes and eggs, but Green Shakshuka gives this dish a bright, herby twist that’s perfect for brunching on Memorial Day morning.
This vibrant skillet meal features leafy greens like spinach and kale, cooked down with garlic, onion, and green chili, then finished with soft eggs and fresh herbs. The pop of color alone will impress your guests—but wait until they take a bite.
Why it belongs at your Memorial Day feast:
It’s light, healthy, and ideal for a sunny late-morning start. Pair it with toasted sourdough or pita for the full experience.
2. Upside-Down Sheet-Pan Asparagus Tart
Crispy, cheesy, and gorgeously golden, this Upside-Down Asparagus Tart is your new favorite side dish (or appetizer). Puff pastry is layered with cheese, mustard, and seasonal asparagus, then baked upside down for a caramelized finish.
It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive without the stress. One sheet pan, a handful of ingredients, and voilà—you’ve got a crowd-pleaser.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day:
It’s an easy yet elegant way to showcase spring produce at your outdoor gathering.
3. Charred Broccoli with Taleggio Sauce
Broccoli on a holiday table? Only if it’s like this. Charred Broccoli with Taleggio Sauce transforms the humble veggie into a rich, smoky, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
The Taleggio cheese brings an indulgent, funky creaminess, while charring the broccoli delivers crispy, flavorful edges. A drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes finish the dish.
Why you need this for your feast:
It’s sophisticated, unexpected, and adds a unique touch to your side dish spread.
4. Sheet-Pan Spiced Cauliflower with Tofu
If you’re catering to plant-based eaters, or just want to lighten things up, this Spiced Cauliflower with Tofu is a winner. Roasted on a sheet pan with smoky cumin, turmeric, and paprika, it’s packed with flavor and protein.
The cauliflower gets irresistibly crispy, while tofu soaks up all the spices. Add a squeeze of lemon or a swirl of yogurt on top for brightness.
Why it’s great for Memorial Day:
It’s hearty enough to be a main dish and can be served warm or at room temp—perfect for picnics!
5. Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges
Level up your veggie game with Miso Butter Cabbage Wedges—a bold, umami-loaded dish that’s crispy on the edges and buttery inside.
Cabbage is sliced thick and brushed with miso-infused butter, then roasted until caramelized. The flavor is deeply savory, with just enough sweetness to keep you coming back for more.
Why it deserves a spot at your feast:
It’s a simple prep that delivers big flavor, and it’s totally unexpected for a holiday cookout.
6. Street Corn Chopped Salad
This isn’t your average corn salad. Think of it as a deconstructed elote—Street Corn Chopped Salad blends charred corn with creamy dressing, lime juice, cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a touch of chili powder.
Toss it with romaine or serve it as a standalone side. Either way, it’s bold, zesty, and totally addictive.
Why it’s a Memorial Day MVP:
It’s bright, refreshing, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or tacos.
7. Simple Red Potato Salad with Mayo and Dijon
It wouldn’t be a true Memorial Day feast without a Classic Potato Salad, and this one hits all the right notes. Creamy, tangy, and just a little zippy thanks to the Dijon, it’s everything you want in a nostalgic side dish.
Red potatoes hold their shape beautifully, while mayo, mustard, and fresh herbs create that rich, familiar flavor.
Why you need it:
Every cookout needs a killer potato salad—and this one always gets seconds.
8. Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
When you need something crisp, cooling, and quick, this Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad has your back. Fresh veggies get tossed in a tangy vinegar dressing for the ultimate summer side.
No mayo, no cream—just bright, hydrating flavor that keeps things light and fresh on a hot day.
Why it works so well:
It balances the richness of other dishes and doubles as a palate cleanser between bites.
9. Cotton Candy Grapes
Okay, this one’s not exactly a “recipe,” but Cotton Candy Grapes deserve a seat at your holiday table. These naturally sweet, almost dessert-like grapes taste just like cotton candy—and kids and adults alike can’t resist them.
Serve them chilled as a snack, thread them onto skewers, or freeze them for a frosty treat.
Why they’re a genius addition:
No prep needed, and they’ll vanish in minutes. Sweet, refreshing, and pure fun!
10. Johnny Marzetti Casserole
To round out your Memorial Day feast, why not serve a beloved American classic? Johnny Marzetti Casserole is rich, meaty, cheesy, and absolutely comforting. Ground beef, tomato sauce, pasta, and loads of melted cheese—all baked to bubbly perfection.
It’s hearty, nostalgic, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
Why it’s a hit:
It’s make-ahead friendly, feeds a crowd, and brings serious comfort food vibes to your summer gathering.
FAQs About Memorial Day Feast Recipes
Q: Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Dishes like Johnny Marzetti Casserole, Potato Salad, and Miso Butter Cabbage Wedges are perfect for prepping in advance.
Q: Are there any vegetarian Memorial Day recipes here?
Yes! The Green Shakshuka, Charred Broccoli, Spiced Cauliflower, and more are all vegetarian-friendly.
Q: What’s a good sweet treat for a Memorial Day picnic?
Besides Cotton Candy Grapes, try packing individual portions of fruit salads, mini cheesecakes, or icebox pies.
Q: How do I transport these dishes to a park or beach?
Opt for airtight containers, keep hot items in insulated bags, and bring a cooler for anything perishable.
Q: Can I double these recipes for a larger group?
Yes! These dishes are easy to scale up, especially sheet-pan meals and casseroles.
Conclusion: Crafting the Perfect Memorial Day Feast
Whether you’re hosting in your backyard, heading to a potluck, or setting up by the beach, these Memorial Day feast recipes will guarantee a table full of happy, well-fed guests. From crisp veggies and refreshing salads to nostalgic casseroles and easy sweet bites, this lineup hits every flavor note.
The best part? You don’t need to be a chef to pull it off. These dishes are simple, delicious, and crowd-tested—the kind of recipes you’ll return to again and again.
So fire up the grill, grab your sun hat, and let’s celebrate summer the best way we know how: with food, friends, and flavor-packed memories.