Summer might officially start in late June, but as far as we’re concerned, Memorial Day is the real opener to the summer season. Memorial Day signals the opening of the beaches, a long weekend off of work, and the first big excuse of the season to get together with friends for a warm weather, summery cookout. Whether you’re just celebrating the return of BBQing or remembering those who died serving in the military, take this holiday as an opportunity to get your grill on. It’s also a great time for a picnic or potluck—don’t be that person who just brings a stack of cups (unless you’re also bringing a big-batch summer cocktail for sharing)! Instead, check out this list of 91 delicious Memorial Day sides, mains, salads, and more for ideas.
We’ve included tons of burgers and hot dogs, of course, including some fun spins on the classics like our Big Mac hot dogs, our caprese turkey burgers, our firecracker burgers with strawberry-miso salad, our pigs in a quilt, and our hot dog Cubans. Not a bun fan? No worries, we’ve got tons of chicken, seafood, and steak recipes that are perfect on the grill too, like our butterflied grilled chicken drumsticks, our cowboy steak, our grilled honey-chipotle salmon foil packets, our carne asada, and more.
Lots of salads here as well, and we don’t just mean the green ones (though we love leafy summer salads like our grilled plum & pancetta panzanella salad and grilled peach salad). We’ve got tons of potato salad recipes, pasta salads, and bean salads here as well, like our black bean & corn salad, our cowboy pasta salad, our tzatziki potato salad, and our antipasto potato salad.
Speaking of greens, don’t be tempted to skip the veggies at your BBQ. While everyone loves the meaty options, it’s the vegetarian sides and mains recipes they consistently ask for, like our Thai-inspired cauliflower steaks, our tomato gnocchi skewers, our grilled broccoli, or our veggie kabobs. Plus, your plant-based friends will be SO thankful you thought of them!
Now you’ve got all your savory options down, don’t forget about dessert! Check out our fave grilled fruits (if you’ve never had a grilled peach, get ready), our best summer desserts, and our top easy fruit desserts too.
Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce
If there is one copycat recipe I wanted to get absolutely perfect, it’s this one. Cane’s juicy, fried chicken strips dunked in tangy, peppery sauce is the kind of fast food meal I dream about. Plus, this recipe is so easy to scale-up for a large party.
Get the Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce recipe.
PHOTO: MURRAY HALL; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Caprese Turkey Burgers
We’ve Caprese-d everything from pasta salad to focaccia to stuffed peppers, but these Caprese turkey burgers are something special. Crowned with melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil, this fresh twist on America’s perennial favorite will be a smash hit at every backyard BBQ and cookout around.
Get the Caprese Turkey Burgers recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad
If Caesar salad took a vacation to the Midwest, she would become this broccoli Caesar pasta salad. Bright green crisp-tender broccoli is tossed with cavatappi, shredded parm, and shards of crispy croutons in a silky homemade Caesar dressing for an unforgettable spin on the classic cookout staple.
Get the Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Pigs In A Quilt
Pigs in a blanket are one of the best make-ahead party bites, but it’s time they get an upgrade. Here, we swap crescent dough wrapped around the hot dog with a quilt made with woven crescent dough. All you need is some hot dogs, classic crescent dough, and egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
Get the Pigs In A Quilt recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Carne Asada
Carne asada is an undisputedly delicious, classic Mexican preparation for steak where the marinade is as important as the meat. This recipe employs the must-haves of garlic, cilantro, citrus, and chipotle chiles in adobo, which will come alive and bring wild flavor to your grilled meat.
Get the Carne Asada recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burger
A classic beef cheeseburger (smashed, with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, ketchup, and mayo on a toasted potato bun) will always have its place in my heart, but sometimes you gotta branch out of your standard burger operation and switch up the flavor palate. This Thai-inspired sweet chili turkey burger is just the break from boring you’ve been waiting for.
Get the Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burger recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Chicken Burgers
These patties are spiced with smoked paprika and loaded with crunchy, bright coleslaw. We promise these burgers rival even the best hamburgers.
Get the Chicken Burgers recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs
Inspired by the bold and creamy flavors of elote, these Mexican street corn deviled eggs are the perfect bite-sized twist on a classic appetizer. With smoky paprika, adobo chile sauce, charred corn, lime, cotija, and a sprinkle of hot Cheeto dust, you’re going to wonder why elote hasn’t been made into deviled eggs all these years.
Get the Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grilled Fish Sandwich With Slaw & Tzatziki
This fish sandwich not only has everything going on, but it comes together in a flash. The marinade is made with ginger, garlic, paprika, and turmeric, the latter lending the fish a beautiful golden hue when cooked. This is the perfect summer grilling recipe to shake up your burger and hot dog game.
Get the Grilled Fish Sandwich With Slaw & Tzatziki recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON
Best-Ever Burger
There are about a million ways to top a burger, and we’re not here to tell you what goes into yours. We just want to make sure that you’re cooking your burgers as deliciously as possible. With our few super-simple techniques and shopping tips, you’ll be a burger master in no time.
Get the Best-Ever Burger recipe.
Hearst Owned
Sonoran Hot Dogs
This tasty Mexican-inspired hot dog is one of our favorites, and it’s not just because it’s bacon-wrapped… it’s also the condiments, like warm pinto beans, fresh jalapeño salsa, onion, tomato, mustard, and mayo.
Get the Sonoran Hot Dogs recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: RILEY WOFFORD
Coconut Shrimp Burger
To make this unforgettable app-turned-entrée, ground shrimp are spiked with garlic, ginger, and scallions, then coated with coconut flakes and deep fried. The crispy patties are layered onto a toasted potato bun, topped with cabbage slaw, and smothered in spicy-sweet chili mayo.
Get the Coconut Shrimp Burger recipe.
PHOTO: LINDA PUGLIESE; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Italian Pasta Salad
In our opinion, pasta salad is a Memorial Day must. We have plenty of beloved variations of this staple side dish, but this Italian-inspired recipe is our guaranteed go-to when we need a reliable BBQ side.
Get the Italian Pasta Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Summer Squash Sheet Pan Tacos
Put squash, hummus, and pickled shallots in front of us, and we’ll make one mean taco. These vegetarian tacos have layers of tender summer squash, whipped garlicky hummus, smoky tahini sauce, and za’atar pickled shallots layered in warm corn tortillas.
Get the Summer Squash Sheet Pan Tacos recipe.
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Watermelon Caprese
During the summer, we can’t get enough of simple, refreshing salads that put fresh fruit at the forefront. Two of our favorites? The classic caprese, and our watermelon feta salad. We loved these two summer sides so much, we decided to combine them into one refreshing recipe.
Get the Watermelon Caprese recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Elote: Mexican Street Corn
Elote is an unbelievably popular antojito that you can find sold on the street in Mexico. It’s often served on a stick, though you could skip the skewer and make it the same way you’d boil or oven bake regular corn on the cob.
Get the Elote: Mexican Street Corn recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Grilled Plum & Pancetta Panzanella Salad
Since plums are their best in the summer, it’s only right to toss them on the grill. The lightly-charred plums get tossed with crispy pancetta, tangy goat cheese, fresh cherry tomatoes, and grilled sourdough bread, then drizzled with a maple-Dijon dressing, turning this humble salad into a work of art.
Get the Grilled Plum & Pancetta Panzanella Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER
Firecracker Burgers With Strawberry-Miso Salad
This burger is everything there is to love about a summer cookout, all in one. Beef patties, chili-jam brushed thick-cut bacon, cheddar cheese, a slightly spicy Korean-inspired aioli, and a umami-rich dressing, all combine for one powerhouse burger worthy of Memorial Day celebrations.
Get the Firecracker Burgers With Strawberry-Miso Salad recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON
Honey Lime Grilled Corn
Nothing says summertime like the smell of corn on the grill. It also happens to be the easiest side you’ll make all season. For this recipe, juicy ears of corn get some char on a hot grill, then get brushed with an irresistible honey-lime butter that you’ll want to put on everything.
Get the Honey Lime Grilled Corn recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Korean BBQ Cheesy Corn
There’s nothing more exciting than the cheese pulled from a warm corn dip. We love our recipes filled with cheese, and I can assure you this one is loaded. Korean BBQ cheesy corn is the gooiest side dip to your grilled pork tenderloin or BBQ entrées.
Get the Korean BBQ Cheesy Corn recipe.
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grilled Peach Salad
With so much juiciness and just a hint of acidity, peaches—like their summery friend the tomato—are amazing in all sorts of salads. Next up on our peach salad agenda? This summery spin on the iconic wedge salad.
Get the Grilled Peach Salad recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Cheddar, Bacon & Pea Pasta Salad
The best part about this pasta salad isn’t the crispy bacon, but how strikingly simple it is. Cooking your bacon in the oven frees up your hands to mix the dressing together while the pasta and peas boil in the same pot.
Get the Cheddar, Bacon & Pea Pasta Salad recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers
They have all the flavors and textures you’d expect from a chicken tender and can stand alone with their crispy exterior and juicy interior. When paired with this sweet, smoky, tangy honey-chipotle sauce, you might eat a few too many, which is definitely a good thing!
Get the Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER
Antipasto Potato Salad
Potato salad is about as classic a summer side as it gets, and we love experimenting with different flavor combinations. If you’re looking to lighten up your usual potato salad, look no further—this version is bursting with all the flavors of your favorite antipasto.
Get the Antipasto Potato Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Zucchini Bun Hot Dogs
Grilling zucchini not only turns it smoky and delicious, but makes it soft enough to serve as a perfect vessel for your grilled hot dog. The zucchini isn’t trying to replace the bun by any means—think of this BBQ main as a perfect way to get your main and veggies in one.
Get the Zucchini Bun Hot Dogs recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grilled Teriyaki Cauliflower Steaks
Looking for a vegetarian centerpiece for your summer grill-out? Make these teriyaki cauliflower steaks. Slathered in a brown sugar and soy glaze and showered with scallions and toasted sesame seeds, these saucy cauliflower steaks might just upstage the ribs.
Get the Grilled Teriyaki Cauliflower Steaks recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Big Mac Hot Dogs
Love a Big Mac? Us too! So much so that we’re not consigning their delicious flavor to just burgers. These hot dogs are everything you love about them (mm, Mac sauce), with a twist!
Get the Big Mac Hot Dogs recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Watermelon Pizza
As you take your first bite of this unusual combination, you’ll quickly discover the magic. The sweetness of the watermelon provides a refreshing base that perfectly complements the savory toppings, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that dance across your palate.
Get the Watermelon Pizza recipe.
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers
Get your grill out: This is a chicken dish that goes with everything! Get the marinade and grilling technique down, then turn these cilantro-and-lime chicken skewers into a variety of meals, each with different flavor profiles so they never get boring.
Get the Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Summer Couscous Salad
Here we’re using couscous as the base for a confetti of colored vegetables, doused in a creamy lemon Dijon dressing. We’ve also added tangy feta and sun-dried tomatoes, crunchy toasted almonds, and nutty, earthy chickpeas to give it a little added oomph.
Get the Summer Couscous Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
These grilled shrimp piccata skewers are the perfect combination of juicy, charred shrimp, bright lemon zest, briny capers, and white wine butter sauce that will make your friends beg you for the recipe. Since it only takes 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for everything from a backyard bash to a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers recipe.
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Caprese Chicken Foil Packs
This recipe combines three things we love—Caprese, chicken, and foil packets—for a SUPER-easy and bright chicken dinner that only takes about 30 minutes to make. Whether you’re throwing a BBQ or having a chill family meal, everyone will love them!
Get the Caprese Chicken Foil Packs recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Hawaiian Mac Salad
Hawaiian macaroni salad is a creamy, tangy, iconic comfort food that is practically synonymous with the state. It’s very simple to prepare—you might already have all the ingredients on hand!—making it the perfect easy side to bring to any Memorial Day celebration.
Get the Hawaiian Mac Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Greek Salad
When you’re looking for simple, refreshing, and reliable, you’d be hard pressed to find a dish better than classic Greek salad. Filled with fresh veggies, tangy feta, and a simple dressing, this simple salad makes for a perfect last-minute addition to your Memorial Day celebration.
Get the Greek Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING BARRETT WASHBURNE
Watermelon Quinoa Salad
With mint, feta, red onion, cucumber, and a balsamic glaze, this one’s got everything you love about traditional watermelon salad, but with an additional protein boost from one of our favorite grains, fluffy and nutritious quinoa.
Get the Watermelon Quinoa Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Harissa Grilled Chicken
In the world of powerhouse pantry staples, harissa is a flavor bomb. We’re no strangers to its magic here at Delish, and now we’re tapping it again for this easy, throw-together marinade for grilled chicken that’s perfect for Memorial Day.
Get the Harissa Grilled Chicken recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Classic Potato Salad
A classic potato salad is a must-have at every picnic and BBQ, and Memorial Day is no different. Ours is the best—it’s creamy and tangy, with a little bit of crunch from the onion and pickles. If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss potato salad that won’t disappoint, this is it.
Get the Classic Potato Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Green Chile Cheeseburger
When roasted over an open flame, the peppers here take on new life, going from crisp and verdant to velvety tender and seductively smoky. You end up with condiment gold, transforming the humble cheeseburger into a transcendent experience between two buns that must be tasted to be believed.
Get the Green Chile Cheeseburger recipe.
Joel goldberg
Butterflied Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Served with a tangy creamy Alabama white sauce, these grilled drumsticks are the perfect blend of spicy, smokey, and sweet that will impress the guests at your next backyard BBQ.
Get the Butterflied Grilled Chicken Drumsticks recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI ; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grilled Cabbage “Steaks”
Grilled cabbage is an excellent “blank canvas” to carry out any other flavors that you may have your heart set on, so feel free to customize as you see fit to find your true cabbage soulmate. Spoon it with honey mustard dressing, dollop it with garlicky romesco, or drizzle some prik nam pla for a spicy kick.
Get the Grilled Cabbage “Steaks” recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Greek Chickpea Salad
We’re no strangers to a great chickpea salad, so coming up with a Greek-inspired one was a no-brainer. It’s got all the flavors you love from Greek salad, turned into something more substantial and filling that pairs well with almost anything.
Get the Greek Chickpea Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Baked Beans
Baked beans are sweet, tangy, savory, and the best part, surprisingly easy to make. Not to mention, they’re a one-pot wonder! Put them on your hot dogs, pair them alongside your cornbread, or enjoy them all on their own this Memorial Day.
Get the Baked Beans recipe.
PHOTO: NICO SCHINCO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Pulled Pork
Sandwiched between a soft potato bun, piled on top of a baked potato or even eaten on its own, pulled pork is the versatile dish that’s welcome at any BBQ. Extremely tender with a sweet yet tangy homemade BBQ sauce, this oven-baked pulled pork is our go-to to serve for a crowd.
Get the Pulled Pork recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grilled Honey-Chipotle Salmon Foil Packets
Grilling fish can be intimidating, but with foil packs, there’s no need to stress. It’s not just fish inside, either—there’s a medley of zucchini and yellow summer squash with a smoky honey-chipotle sauce.
Get the Grilled Honey-Chipotle Salmon Foil Packets recipe.
RACHEL VANNI
Best Homemade Coleslaw
No summer potluck is complete without a big bowl of coleslaw, and we happen to think our recipe is the absolute best. Whether you’re hungry for a last-minute side dish or the perfect topping, follow our top tips to ace this dish.
Get the Best Homemade Coleslaw recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Cowboy Pasta Salad
Think of this as a better taco salad (because pasta!), that’s perfect for potlucks and BBQS. Trust us, once you add ground beef to pasta salad, you won’t be able to stop—it’s that good.
Get the Cowboy Pasta Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Grilled Chicken Kebabs
Many cookouts are plagued by folks using breasts and not knowing how to grill them. Chicken thighs, however, are a lot more forgiving due to their natural tenderness and flavor. They taste even better when slid on skewers alongside bok choy and scallions, then glazed with a hoisin BBQ sauce.
Get the Grilled Chicken Kebabs recipe.
Andrew Bui
Homemade Cornbread
Here at Delish, we want our perfect cornbread to be thick, tender, just a little bit sweet, and not at all dry. We also believe that cornbread should be simple, a side you can whip up quickly to serve with chili or smoky beans that takes way less time than making homemade rolls.
Get the Homemade Cornbread recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Smash Burger
If you’ve never had a smash burger, get ready—because it cooks so fast, the two patties are impossibly juicy and have perfectly crispy edges you’ll love. We love ours topped with mayo, pickles, lettuce, and tomato, but go with whatever you like!
Get the Smash Burger recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN: FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Pinwheel Sandwiches
These retro sandwiches are easy to assemble, look great on a platter, and are ideal for a Memorial Day party. To make them, you’ll layer flour tortillas with ranch-flavored mayonnaise, sliced cheese, deli meats, and lettuce. All that’s left to do is roll them up tightly and slice.
Get the Pinwheel Sandwiches recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Tzatziki Potato Salad
This tzatziki-inspired version of potato salad is very dill-forward and nicely lemony and bright with yogurt, crunchy cucumber—both fresh and pickled—and creamy boiled baby red potatoes. Add in a bit of zesty red onions and a pinch of MSG, and you’ve got a paradox of refreshing indulgence.
Get the Tzatziki Potato Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs
The gnocchi paired with blistered grilled tomatoes and tender red onion make for a perfect summer snack. They come together in minutes, and if you’re really pressed for time, you can skip the homemade salsa verde and opt for store-bought.
Get the Tomato Gnocchi Kebabs recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Cowboy Steak With Grilled Red Onion Salad
This steak is inspired by Nigerian beef suya, which is typically served with a spread of fresh tomatoes, red onions, and sliced cucumbers to cut through the spicy, fatty meat. We threw our onions on the grill to bring out their natural sweetness and give them a softer texture to contrast with the crisp cucumbers.
Get the Cowboy Steak With Grilled Red Onion Salad recipe.
Erik bernstein
Spicy Coconut Grilled Chicken
Get these spicy coconut chicken thighs on the grill ASAP, you won’t regret it. They’re insanely tender thanks to a tasty duo of coconut milk and tenderizing pineapple juice in the marinade. We bet you’ll revisit this simple recipe again and again this summer, so why not start on Memorial Day?
Get the Spicy Coconut Grilled Chicken recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Corn Salad
While we love celebrating the versatile ingredient in all its forms, a fresh salad has to be one of our favorite ways to enjoy sweet summer corn. Not only is it completely adaptable to what you have on hand, it’s so easy to prepare—simply toss to combine, season to taste, and serve!
Get the Corn Salad recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs
Chicago is as picky about hot dogs as New York is about pizza. The toppings aren’t just specific, but the order they go on is important too. Poppy seed hot dog buns and sport peppers are hard to find outside of the Windy City, so we made our own buns and used another pickled green pepper in its place.
Get the Chicago-Style Hot Dogs recipe.
Joel goldberg
Greek Orzo Salad
Move aside plain ol’ pasta salad—orzo is here to shake things up. While we love it in comforting, warming dishes, it also makes for a great salad base. This easy, fresh recipe is filled with bright Mediterranean flavors and mix-ins, but feel free to swap in and out your faves.
Get the Greek Orzo Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Succotash-Inspired Gnocchi
Inspired by delicious and oh-so-summery succotash, this colorful side is extra hearty and full of fresh flavors. Though this rendition doesn’t include beans, we think the chewy boiled gnocchi are the perfect stand-ins.
Get the Succotash-Inspired Gnocchi recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Thai-Style Slaw
Although we love a classic mayo-based coleslaw, we also can’t sing the praises enough of a peanut butter, lime, soy-based version. This right here is what slaw should be all about! Trust us—you’re going to want to drink this sweet, sour, umami, salty dressing.
Get the Thai-Style Slaw recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Thai-Inspired Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower steaks demand a place on your grill! We found the perfect funky balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy in this Thai-inspired sauce to blanket them. Try the sauce and if needed, balance it out to your taste with brown sugar for more sweetness, red pepper flakes for more heat, lime juice for more pucker, and salt.
Get the Thai-Inspired Grilled Cauliflower Steaks recipe.
Andrew bui
Lobster Salad
Lobster rolls are a classic summer meal, but the truth is, you don’t really need the split-top hot dog buns. Lightly dressed with mayo and finished off with a big squeeze of lemon juice, lobster salad tastes incredible on its own, especially paired with slices of creamy avocado.
Get the Lobster Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This summery salad is our forever plus one for Memorial Day cookouts, picnics, and pool parties. Loaded with cucumbers, feta, kalamata olives, and red onion, it’s all at once refreshing and satisfying.
Get the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: PEARL JONES
Chipotle Tofu & Pineapple Skewers
Tofu is so much more than a meat substitute, it’s the perfect base to soak up tasty sauces, like this chipotle and guajillo chili marinade inspired by a popular Mexican street food, tacos al pastor.
Get the Chipotle Tofu & Pineapple Skewers recipe.
Andrew bui
Mahi Mahi Tacos
Being a meaty, tender fish, mahi mahi stands up well to the grill and is even better when marinated. Throw the fish on a tortilla with some spicy pineapple-jalapeño salsa, and you’ll have an amazing summer taco night.
Get the Mahi Mahi Tacos recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Corn and Tomato Gnocchi Foil Packs
Why do we love potato gnocchi in foil packets so much? It’s an easy way to cook this pasta dish from start to finish on the grill—no boiling water necessary and barely any dishes in the sink at the end of it all!
Get the Corn and Tomato Gnocchi Foil Packs recipe.
Andrew bui
Grilled Green Beans
If you’re cooking over an actual grill, place a heavy duty piece of foil over the grates before adding the green beans. It’ll prevent the veg from falling through the cracks.
Get the Grilled Green Beans recipe.
Parker feierbach
Classic Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is one of our favorite things to pair with pulled pork or ribs, which is why it’s such a disappointment when it is too dry or soggy. Not to fear—this recipe guarantees perfection ever time.
Get the Classic Macaroni Salad recipe.
PHOTO: NICO SCHINCO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grilled Chicken Street Tacos
Nothing beats a street taco—super-juicy, tender grilled meat in a quick grab-and-go format, typically made possible by doubling up two smaller corn tortillas. This makes them easier to eat on the side of the street, in the car, anywhere you find yourself this Memorial Day!
Get the Grilled Chicken Street Tacos recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Copycat Chili’s Baby Back Ribs
This copycat mimics Chili’s rib flavor by first slow cooking the ribs in the oven with a peppery spice rub, then drenching them in a rich homemade BBQ sauce. Next up, add the ribs to the grill for a quick char, adding a final layer of smoky flavor.
Get the Copycat Chili’s Baby Back Ribs recipe.
Andrew bui
Lobster Rolls
This lobster roll is Connecticut-style, which means absolutely no mayo in sight—just melted butter and some chives for freshness. We think this version really lets the lobster take center stage so, crustacean-lovers, this is the sandwich for you.
Get the Lobster Rolls recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Tex-Mex Chicken Fajita Foil Packets
In these foil packs, a heap of veggies—there are potatoes, onions, and bell peppers—and tender nuggets of boneless, skinless chicken thighs are all flavored with delicious fajita spices.
Get the Tex-Mex Chicken Fajita Foil Packets recipe.
ANDREW BUI
Hot Dog Cubans
No need to marinate meat for hours for this Cuban sandwich! Instead, halve your hot dogs and put them on the grill alongside your sliced ham. After eating hot dogs in a hoagie, you might never go back to buns.
Get the Hot Dog Cubans recipe.
Suzanne Clements
Grilled Chicken Wings
There’s a special place in our heart for these easy grilled chicken wings. What they might lack in the super crisp nature of fried wings, they make up for in smokiness, beautiful grill marks, and convenience!
Get the Grilled Chicken Wings recipe.
Parker Feierbach
BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches
The grill adds subtle, almost bacon-like smoky flavor to these tempeh steaks, but there’s no meat in sight. Add a cooling, creamy coleslaw and a toasted buttered bun for the perfect meatless sandwich.
Get the BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches recipe.
Andrew bui
Grilled Broccoli
Seasoned with a little soy sauce, honey, Worcestershire, and ketchup, this spicy-sweet, umami-packed broccoli is guaranteed to satisfy even the most carnivorous of eaters.
Get the Grilled Broccoli recipe.
Parker feierbach
Copycat Shake Shack Shroom Burger
The cult favorite from the NYC-based chain is the rock star of veggie burgers. Thanks to breaded portobellos and the delicious shake sauce, we bet you won’t even miss the meat.
Get the Copycat Shake Shack Shroom Burger recipe.
ERIK BERNSTEIN
Bang Bang Corn
Bang bang shrimp gets all the hype, but we are here to tell you that flavor-packed bang bang corn deserves a little more time in the spotlight. The sweet-spicy sauce is perfect over almost anything and will really spice up your Memorial Day.
Get the Bang Bang Corn recipe.
Erik bernstein
Bruschetta Grilled Chicken
This bruschetta-inspired grilled chicken is one of our favorite ways to celebrate fresh summer flavors all season long, starting with Memorial Day!
Get the Bruschetta Grilled Chicken recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Grilled Pizza
If you’ve never tried grilling pizza, Memorial Day is a great time to start. It is far easier than you can imagine, and there’s no pizza stone required! The crust turns out perfectly charred, crispy on the outside, and chewy on the inside, with plenty of melty cheese on top.
Get the Grilled Pizza recipe.
Parker feierbach
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Corn
It doesn’t take much to elevate grilled corn into something incredible—just a little ranch seasoning, ranch dressing, and BACON.
Get the Cheddar Bacon Ranch Corn recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Veggie Kabobs
These kabobs have the *perfect* combination of flavors and textures. Serve them up with our ultimate meat-lovers veggie burger for a backyard vegetarian feast that even a carnivore couldn’t turn down.
Get the Veggie Kabobs recipe.
Erik Bernstein
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Tired of your same old Caesar salad? Add chicken and penne pasta to transform it into the BBQ side dish of your dreams.
Get the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Grilled Potatoes
These potatoes are the perfect summer side. Throw ’em on the grill next to your grilled meats for a smoky, summer take on burgers & fries.
Get the Grilled Potatoes recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Tequila-Lime Chicken Tacos
Tequila-lime might sound like a margarita flavor profile, but we love using it in chicken marinades. While the chicken’s marinating, prep the fixings: purple cabbage, Cotija, and avocado—or anything you want.
Get the Tequila-Lime Chicken Tacos recipe.
Kat Wirsing
Greek Salmon Burgers
Topped with a feta-infused garlic-mint yogurt sauce and sandwiched between toasted pitas, these salmon burgers might just beat out your beef ones this Memorial Day.
Get the Greek Salmon Burgers recipe.
Erik bernstein
Grilled Corn Salad
This versatile, flavorful corn salad is the perfect thing to do with leftover grilled corn. Mix and match your favorite cheeses, herbs, and nuts, but keep the citrus for brightness and oil for a little richness.
Get the Grilled Corn Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: ERIKA JOYCE
Perfect Fish Tacos
The fish—we use cod, but any flaky variety, like tilapia, works—marinates in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin that will become your standard. But the real gem of this recipe is the red cabbage slaw—don’t skip it.
Get the Perfect Fish Tacos recipe.
PHOTO: PARKER FEIERBACH
Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Like our sheet pan shrimp boil, this recipe cuts down on the production, but not the flavor! Foil packs turn a shrimp boil into individual parties that are so easy to throw onto the grill. It’s everything you love with way less work.
Get the Shrimp Boil Foil Packets recipe.
Parker feierbach
Grilled Balsamic Mushrooms
Mushrooms can get sidelined at a barbecue as the lame side dish for vegetarians, but when tossed in a balsamic-soy glaze, they’ll get all the attention. Don’t forget to pre-soak your skewers first so they don’t burn!
Get the Grilled Balsamic Mushrooms recipe.
Parker feierbach
Black Bean & Corn Salad
This easy summer salad comes together quickly and works as a side dish, a great topping for tacos, or as an appetizer with tortilla chips. Think of this as a medley of the most exciting parts of a vegetarian burrito bowl, unadulterated by rice, and hyped up by a little honey-lime action.
Get the Black Bean & Corn Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Grilled Corn On The Cob
This is our simplest, easiest recipe, but the flavor combo options are endless—check out the rest of our grilled corn ideas too.
Get the Grilled Corn On The Cob recipe.
Parker Feierbach
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