Memorial Day is a time to honor the heroes who have served in the military, but it’s also the perfect occasion to gather with loved ones and enjoy some delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a picnic in the park, or a simple family dinner, having the right dishes is essential. In this article, we’ll explore 10 Memorial Day feast recipes that are sure to make your gathering memorable. From savory casseroles to decadent desserts, these recipes are both easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests. Let’s dive into these perfect Memorial Day recipes!
1. Hashbrown Casserole
Start your Memorial Day feast with a comforting and satisfying side dish: Hashbrown Casserole. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines crispy hashbrowns with creamy cheese and a blend of seasonings that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: The creamy and cheesy texture pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and BBQ dishes, making it a great addition to your holiday spread.
Ingredients:
- Frozen hashbrowns
- Sour cream
- Cream of chicken soup
- Cheddar cheese
- Onion
2. Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie
For dessert, what better way to celebrate Memorial Day than with a fresh, fruity pie? Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a nostalgic favorite that’s sweet, tangy, and perfect for the season.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: Packed with fresh strawberries and a light, flaky crust, this pie is a refreshing treat for a hot day. It’s also simple to prepare, leaving you with more time to enjoy the holiday.
Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Pie crust
3. Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls
If you’re looking to mix things up with a unique appetizer, try these Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls. They offer a fun twist on the traditional crab rangoon, and their crispy exterior is perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: These bite-sized delights are great for casual outdoor eating, and they’re easy to prepare ahead of time. Plus, who doesn’t love crispy food with a rich filling?
Ingredients:
- Crab meat
- Cream cheese
- Green onions
- Egg roll wrappers
4. Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken
If you’re craving something savory with a touch of sweetness, Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish for your Memorial Day feast. This chicken is crispy on the outside with a sticky honey garlic sauce that will have everyone reaching for more.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: This dish is full of flavor and pairs wonderfully with other BBQ favorites like grilled corn on the cob or potato salad. It’s also super easy to make, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs
- Honey
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
5. Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Add some zing to your Memorial Day spread with Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken. This dish features tender chicken coated in a tangy, sweet sauce that will balance out the richness of other dishes on the table.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: The combination of sweet and sour flavors makes it a unique choice for a holiday feast. It’s also baked, making it a healthier option compared to fried versions.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast
- Pineapple chunks
- Bell peppers
- Sweet and sour sauce
6. Cheesy Chicken Fritters
Who doesn’t love a cheesy, crispy fritter? These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are loaded with flavor and make for a hearty side or appetizer that will wow your guests.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: They’re small and easy to eat, making them great for serving at a party. The cheesy filling adds richness, while the crispy exterior adds crunch.
Ingredients:
- Ground chicken
- Cheese
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
7. Pink Velvet Cookies
Looking for a sweet treat that’s both festive and delicious? Pink Velvet Cookies are a beautiful addition to your Memorial Day dessert table, and they’re easy to make.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: The vibrant pink color makes them ideal for a Memorial Day celebration, and the soft, chewy texture will leave everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- Cake mix (red velvet or vanilla)
- Eggs
- Butter
- Powdered sugar
8. Chocolate No-Bake Cookies
For a dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven, Chocolate No-Bake Cookies are the way to go. These rich and fudgy cookies are made with simple ingredients and can be prepared in no time.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: No baking means less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends. These cookies are the perfect bite-sized dessert for a Memorial Day gathering.
Ingredients:
- Cocoa powder
- Peanut butter
- Oats
- Butter
9. Classic Tiramisu
A classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu is a perfect indulgence for your Memorial Day feast. It’s light, creamy, and has just the right amount of coffee flavor to keep things interesting.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: Tiramisu can be made ahead of time, which means less stress on the day of your celebration. Plus, it’s a sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- Ladyfingers
- Mascarpone cheese
- Espresso
- Cocoa powder
10. Green Shakshuka
For something a little different, try Green Shakshuka. This dish is made with eggs poached in a spicy, flavorful green sauce that’s packed with spinach, kale, and herbs.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: It’s a great option for brunch or a light lunch. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with nutrients to balance out the more indulgent dishes on the table.
Ingredients:
- Eggs
- Spinach
- Kale
- Green chilies
FAQs
Q: Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
Yes, many of these dishes can be prepared in advance. For example, the Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie and Chocolate No-Bake Cookies can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
Q: Are these Memorial Day recipes easy to make?
Absolutely! These recipes are all designed to be simple and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. With step-by-step instructions and minimal prep time, you can focus on enjoying your holiday.
Q: Can I adjust these recipes for dietary restrictions?
Most of these dishes can be easily adapted for dietary preferences. For example, you can make the Green Shakshuka vegan by omitting the eggs and using tofu or chickpeas instead.
Conclusion
Memorial Day is a time to relax, honor those who have served, and enjoy good food with great company. These 10 Memorial Day feast recipes offer a delicious variety of dishes that will suit any palate. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or preparing a savory casserole, these recipes are sure to make your holiday gathering special. From appetizers like Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls to desserts like Pink Velvet Cookies, you’ll find the perfect dishes to elevate your Memorial Day celebration.
So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the holiday with your loved ones!