Memorial Day Menu for a Crowd: Easy Appetizers, Mains, Sides & Desserts!
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time to honor those who served and enjoy time with loved ones. For many, that means barbecues and cookouts.
Planning a Memorial Day menu for a crowd can seem daunting. You need to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs while keeping things manageable. This article provides a comprehensive collection of recipes and tips.
Let’s dive in and create the perfect Memorial Day feast!
Contents
Appetizers & Snacks
Appetizers are essential for keeping guests happy. They tide everyone over while the main courses are prepared on the grill. A variety of options ensures everyone finds something they enjoy.
When planning your Memorial Day menu for a crowd, consider both dips and lighter, refreshing snacks to prevent palate fatigue; don’t underestimate the power of a good, simple snack.
Dips
Dips are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Cucumber-And-Onion Dip is a cool and refreshing option. Texas Caviar (no-cook) provides a zesty kick. Taco Dip is a guaranteed hit with its familiar flavors.
Jalapeño Popper Dip offers a spicy, creamy experience. Copycat Publix Buffalo Chicken Dip is a popular choice. Creamy Avocado Dip brings healthy fats and vibrant flavor.
Spinach-Artichoke Dip is a classic for a reason. Creamy Crab Dip adds a touch of elegance. Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Hummus is a unique and flavorful dip.
Salsas
No Memorial Day menu for a crowd is complete without fresh salsas; their light and flavorful nature makes them ideal with tortilla chips or alongside grilled meats.
Mango-Black Bean Salsa is a sweet and savory option. Peach Salsa is a taste of summer. Tomato-Green Chili Salsa provides a classic, zesty flavor.
Skewers/Kebabs
Skewers are easy to eat and visually appealing. They are a great way to serve vegetables or grilled meats.
Grilled Veggie Skewers are a healthy and colorful choice. Grilled Okra-and-Pepper Skewers with Dijon Dipping Sauce offer a unique flavor combination. Swordfish & Bell Pepper Kebobs with Lemon Dill Marinade are a light and flavorful option. Herb Marinated Grilled Chicken Vegetable Kebobs are a filling and flavorful option.
Finger Foods
When designing your Memorial Day menu for a crowd, remember that finger foods are perfect for mingling; prioritize options that are easy to eat while standing, ensuring a comfortable and social atmosphere.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies are always a hit. Deviled Eggs with Relish are a classic appetizer. Cheddar Cheese Straws add a savory crunch. Party Poppers add a spicy kick.
Mini Caprese Bites are a simple and elegant option. Shrimp on Seasoned Crackers with Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese is a sophisticated appetizer.
Salads
A light salad can serve as an appetizer. The Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is a refreshing choice.
Other
Variety is key when planning your Memorial Day menu for a crowd. These diverse options each add a special touch: Pimiento Cheese Flatbread is a savory and satisfying choice, Baked Brie With Jezebel Peaches is an elegant and flavorful option, and Sweet And Fiery Pepper Bruschetta is a unique and exciting choice.
Accordion Potatoes are a fun and creative appetizer. Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a quick and easy option. Guacamole Pinwheels are a festive and flavorful choice. Cucumber Hummus Bites are a light and refreshing option.
Main Courses
Grilling is a cornerstone of Memorial Day celebrations, so any good Memorial Day menu for a crowd should include burgers, ribs, and chicken; however, be sure to also consider offering vegetarian or vegan alternatives.
Ensure you have enough grill space and equipment. Prepare marinades and sauces in advance. Think about offering a buffet so guests can pick and choose what they like.
Burgers & Sandwiches
Burgers are a classic choice for a cookout. Offer a variety of toppings and buns.
The Best Burgers (ground beef) are a staple. Vegan Black Bean Burger is a delicious plant-based option. Tempeh & Black Bean Burger provides another vegetarian alternative.
Copycat Zupas Ultimate Grilled Cheese is a comfort food classic. Turkey Bacon Ranch Sliders are a flavorful and easy-to-eat option. Pulled “Pork” Burgers with BBQ Oyster Mushrooms is a vegan twist on a classic. Vegan Lobster Roll is a unique and delicious option.
Steak & Ribs
For a Memorial Day menu for a crowd designed to impress, steak and ribs are excellent, crowd-pleasing options – truly perfect for a special occasion.
Tomahawk Ribeye Steak is a show-stopping choice. Grilled Rib Eye with Smoked Salt and Charred Vegetables provides a flavorful experience. Grilled Hanger Steak with Charmoula Sauce offers a unique flavor combination. BBQ Pork Ribs are a classic cookout staple.
Chicken
Chicken is a versatile and affordable option. Marinate it for extra flavor.
Spiced Yogurt Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and healthy option. BBQ Chicken Legs are a classic cookout staple. 9 Insanely Delicious Easy Homemade Chicken Wing Recipes provides a variety of options.
Seafood
To add a touch of elegance to your Memorial Day menu for a crowd, consider seafood, grilling it for a healthy and flavorful option.
Grilled Swordfish with Grilled Oranges & Fennel offers a refreshing flavor combination. Grilled Swordfish with Tomato Olive Salsa provides a Mediterranean-inspired option.
But where do you find reliably high-quality seafood for your menu? Consider Global Seafoods Market. Founded in 1998, this family-run business delivers premium, sustainably sourced fresh, frozen, and even live seafood directly to your door.
Known for their wild-caught Alaskan salmon, king crab, and unique offerings like smoked salmon appetizers, Global Seafoods works directly with trusted fishermen to ensure the freshest, most delicious seafood possible.
Make your Memorial Day cookout both memorable and delicious by exploring Global Seafoods’ extensive selection on their website at globalseafoods.com. And be sure to use these Global Seafoods coupons to get the best prices on these premium selections!
Other
Consider these options for variety. Quick Grilled Pork Tenderloin is a lean and flavorful option. Vegan Tacos are a fun and customizable option.
Side Dishes
Side dishes complement the main course. They provide variety and cater to different tastes. Plan for a mix of salads, vegetables, and classic cookout sides.
Consider dietary restrictions when planning side dishes. Offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Prepare some sides in advance to save time on Memorial Day.
Salads
For a balanced Memorial Day menu for a crowd, salads are a refreshing addition to any cookout; they’re a great way to incorporate vegetables and healthy fats.
Easy Pasta Salad is a classic side dish. Kale Salad with Chickpeas and Tempeh Bacon Bits is a healthy and flavorful option. Fattoush Salad provides a Middle Eastern-inspired option. Fresh Corn Salad with Avocado is a taste of summer.
Tabouli Salad (Tabbouleh) is a refreshing herb salad. Hot Girl Summer Salad is a colorful and flavorful option. Vegan Potato Salad provides a plant-based version of a classic. Patriotic Tri Color Pasta Salad is a festive and flavorful option.
Salade Niçoise is a classic French salad. Smoked Trout Nicoise Salad with Purple Potatoes provides a unique twist. Salmon Nicoise Salad offers a different protein option. Asian Tofu Noodle Papaya Salad is a light and flavorful option.
Thai Basil Steak Salad is a flavorful and filling option. Zoodles Noodles & Sprouts Salad is a healthy and refreshing option. Asian Chicken Salad is a light and flavorful option. Chicken Papaya Salad provides a tropical flavor.
Classic Coleslaw is a cookout staple. Black Bean and Corn Salad with Chipotle-Honey Vinaigrette is a flavorful and zesty option. Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas, Pine Nuts & Mozzarella Pearls is a flavorful and satisfying option. Vivian Howard’s Cilantro Lime Sweet Corn is a unique and flavorful option.
These are all great choices for your Memorial Day menu for a crowd: Tabbouleh, a refreshing herb salad; Chickpea Salad, a simple and healthy option; Sweet & Tangy Citrus Slaw, a light and flavorful option; German Potato Salad, a hearty and flavorful option
Strawberry and Orange Salad with Citrus Syrup is a light and refreshing option. Green Apple and Celery Salad with Dill is a crisp and refreshing option. Grilled Asparagus Salad with Lemon & Feta is a flavorful and healthy option. French Grated Carrot Salad with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette is a classic French salad.
Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and cooling option. Refreshing Spring Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a light and flavorful option.
Other Sides
These sides add variety and flavor. Easy Oven Roasted Vegetables are a healthy and versatile option. Baked Bean Casserole is a classic cookout side. Southern Baked Beans are a flavorful and savory option.
Mexican Street corn is a flavorful and zesty option. Harvey’s Mac & Cheese is a classic comfort food.
Desserts
Desserts are the perfect ending to a Memorial Day menu for a crowd. Offer a variety of options to satisfy different preferences. Consider fruity desserts, cakes, and other sweet treats.
Keep desserts light and refreshing for a summer cookout. Prepare some desserts in advance to save time on Memorial Day.
Fruity Desserts
Fruity desserts are a light and refreshing option. They are perfect for a summer cookout.
Summery Stone Fruit Galette is a rustic and flavorful option. Vegan Blueberry Crumble is a healthy and delicious option. Mango Salad With Avocado And Fresh Herbs is a unique and refreshing option. Light Strawberry Pound Cake is a classic summer dessert.
Summer Fruit Salad is a simple and refreshing option. Blueberry Mini Pie Pops are a fun and festive option. Cinnamon Mixed Berry Dessert Nachos are a unique and flavorful option. Peach and Blueberry Cobbler is a classic summer dessert.
Cakes & Pies
For a classic Memorial Day menu for a crowd, you can’t go wrong with cakes and pies; these dessert options are perfect for such a special occasion.
Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake is a light and flavorful option. Vegan Key Lime Pie Tart is a refreshing and tangy option. Red, White & Blue Swirl Bundt Cake is a festive and patriotic option. Patriotic Whoopie Pies are a fun and festive option.
Other Desserts
Consider these options for variety. Cinnamon Mixed Berry Dessert Nachos are a unique and flavorful option. Lemon Lime Soda Cupcakes are a fun and festive option. Rhubarb Crunch is a classic dessert. Puppy Chow is a classic snack mix.
Drinks
The ideal Memorial Day menu for a crowd should include refreshing drinks. Offer watermelon lemonade, iced tea, and other beverages perfect for the hot day.
Consider offering a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Provide plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated.
Watermelon Lemonade is a refreshing and flavorful option. Frozen Blueberry Lemonade is a cool and refreshing option. Iced Tea is a classic cookout beverage.
Fresh Watermelon Margaritas are a festive and refreshing option. Cold Brew Hibiscus Tea is a unique and flavorful option. Mint Simple Syrup can be used to flavor a variety of drinks.
Conclusion
Memorial Day is a time for remembrance and celebration. Enjoy the time spent with family and friends. With a well-planned Memorial Day menu for a crowd, you can ensure everyone enjoys the feast.
Remember to plan ahead, cater to diverse tastes, and offer a variety of options. Don’t be afraid to try new recipes and create your own memorable Memorial Day. Have a happy Memorial Day!
