Memorial Day Menu Ideas

Girl with Barbecue RibsIt’s that time of year again when backyard barbecue warriors rejoice. This weekend marks the grand opening of a grand season, and I for one already have my toothpicks and wetnaps handy.  It is time to do some serious eating folks.

In addition to some of my barbecue favorites, I’m also offering up some top picks from other food blogs I admire.

Now, I know there’s healthy fare to be had off the grill, but holiday weekends are not the time to be doing that. At a good old-fashioned holiday barbecue, you briskest-bacon-pepper-sandwich1want ribs, sausage, burgers and all the sides that make overeating worthwhile. So, here are my picks for a glorious backyard barbecue, holiday or not.

On the Grill (or in the Smoker):

Debbie’s Damn Good Baby Back Ribs

Grilled Flank Steak

Yankee Style Pulled Pork (in the slow cooker) with Insane Barbecue Sauce

Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs recommended by South Jersey Locavore

On the Fancy Side

Lamb Burgers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Grilled Shrimp with Poblano Polenta and Red Pepper Sauce

On the Side:

Corn, Black Bean and Avocado Salad: This salad goes with everything. Great with fish and poultry, even as a salsa with chips.

Grilled Tomato and Cheese: Think grilled cheese sandwich. Delish as an hunan-noodles-001appetizer or side.

Hunan Noodles: Cold, Asian-style salad. A nice departure from more typical barbecue fare.

3-Bean Casserole: You will never resort to plain old baked beans again.

Orzo with Tomato, Basil and Feta: All the fresh taste of summer in one bite. This is a family favorite I make several times over the summer.

Tips for Great Grilling:

An Ode to Charcoal

How to Marinate the Right Way

I hope you will try one of our favorite recipes listed here!

And over this holiday weekend, please take a moment to remember those who have given their lives for our country.