I Start Summer With One of These 29 Memorial Day Recipes Every Year

ByMandy

There’s something about Memorial Day that screams, “make something that gets people hovering near the kitchen.” That’s probably why picking from 29 dishes has turned into an annual event—no speeches, just plates. Over time, choosing one from that bunch has become less of a decision and more of a tradition.

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth, frozen treats are always a great choice when gathering with friends and family. Biscoff Ice Cream adds a unique twist with its sweet, spiced flavor that balances well with its creamy texture. It’s a dessert that feels both refreshing and simple to enjoy. Perfect for capping off a meal or sharing during warm weather.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized snacks are always crowd-pleasers, and Mini Tacos are no exception. They bring together bold flavors and make eating fun and easy, especially for larger groups. These small tacos are full of flavor in every bite, making them great for casual gatherings. Plus, they’re perfect for mixing and matching toppings.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Creamy Avocado Sauce

Avocado sauce in a bowl with it's ingredients surrounding it.
Creamy Avocado Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A smooth, luxurious dip can change the vibe of any appetizer spread, and Creamy Avocado Sauce does exactly that. It’s versatile enough to pair with snacks or main dishes, making it a must-have addition to any party table. With a distinctly rich texture, it works well with chips or as a dressing alternative.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Avocado Sauce

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful treats are always fun to share, and Fruit Pizza brings a mix of sweetness and freshness together effortlessly. It’s made to feel light yet flavorful, making it a dessert that stands apart. With its vibrant presentation, it’s bound to grab attention at any gathering. Great for a shareable option that everyone can enjoy bite by bite.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy, golden sides like Crunchy Onion Rings never go out of style. They’re great for rounding out meals or offering a snack to friends and family. The satisfying crunch and bold flavor make these a classic option for any gathering. Serve them alongside sauces or dips for variety and added fun.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Refreshing salads can balance out any meal, and Chicken Caesar Salad does so with familiarity and ease. It’s hearty enough to stand alone as a dish and pairs well with grilled options or lighter sides. Its mix of greens and flavor-packed chicken makes it a dependable choice. Serve it up for gatherings or lunch breaks.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Comfort food like Million Dollar Casserole is perfect for feeding larger groups. It’s a hearty option that’s packed with richness and ideal for potlucks or parties. Perfectly shareable, it stands out on the table and satisfies across different preferences. It’s an easy way to keep everyone well-fed without a hassle.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Patriotic Gumdrops

Close-up of star-shaped gummy candies in red, blue, and white, coated with sugar.
Patriotic Gumdrops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet treats bring a fun and festive flair to events, and Patriotic Gumdrops take it a step further with their themed look. They’re easy to share and enjoy, making them perfect for parties. The bright and bold appearance makes them a conversation starter. They’re a simple and tasty addition that catches everyone’s eye.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Gumdrops

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bold proteins paired with unique dressings hit differently, as Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing proves. The shrimp’s punchy flavor contrasts well with the mild creaminess of avocado. It’s a dish that feels fancy while being casual enough for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh and bright options like Pico de Gallo always find a way onto the table. It’s great for scooping onto chips or layering onto tacos for a flavor boost. Easy to make and universally loved, it’s something everyone can enjoy during casual moments. Whether used as a topping or a dip, it blends into any meal setup seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds.
Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crowd-pleasers are always appreciated, and Brats in a Blanket deliver on flavor and fun. These bite-sized snacks merge bold sausages with a flaky crust that’s easy to eat. Great for game days or casual dinners, they’re a hit at gatherings. Their compact size makes them perfect for sharing on platters.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Crack Chicken Dip

Cracker with creamy dip featuring bacon bits and green onions being lifted from a dish.
Crack Chicken Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dips bring people together, and Crack Chicken Dip offers a bold flavor punch for all. It’s rich, creamy, and undeniably moreish, making it great for crowds. Perfect for chips, crackers, or veggies, it’s a party favorite. No event feels complete without a dip option like this on the table.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light-meal options can keep things fresh and simple, and Honeycrisp Salad is an excellent example. The balance of sweetness and crunch makes it a standout dish. It’s great for when you need something easy to prepare but still flavorful enough to impress. Perfect for lunch crowds or as part of a large spread during events.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easy-to-eat sandwiches like BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw are perfect for gatherings. Their bold flavor pairs well with a creamy, tangy slaw, creating a great mix of textures. Bite-sized and approachable, they’re excellent for sharing across groups. They work well on casual menus or as a centerpiece dish for events.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie with a slice removed on a white plate. Topped with lime wedge and zest, the crust is golden brown. A hand touches the plate edge, and a small bowl with cream is nearby.
Key Lime Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tangy desserts are great for mixing up the meal, especially during a celebration. Key Lime Pie brings a distinct balance of sweet and sour to the table that’s hard to resist. It’s a clean finish after a heavier meal without being overly complicated to enjoy. A piece of this pie can be a refreshing addition to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Flavorful yet simple dishes work wonders for mixed crowd preferences, just like Grilled Veggie Kebobs. They’re easy to serve and fit across different meal setups. Filled with fresh flavors, they feel just hearty enough without being over the top. They’re a go-to option for adding variety without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Wraps make eating on the go effortless, and Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap combines convenience with flavor. They’re great as a quick lunch or to hand out at casual gatherings. Easy to enjoy without utensils, these wraps simplify meal times. Perfect for serving alongside chips or dips for extra variety.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few appetizers draw people in like 7 Layer Dip, thanks to its mix of textures and bold flavors. It’s stacked, shareable, and ideal for group settings. This is a dish you can easily pair with chips or veggies and have ready for any gathering. It’s perfect for adding color and variety to bigger tables.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Timeless recipes like Macaroni Salad never go out of style when feeding groups. Its creamy texture and blend of flavors make it a dependable side option. Great for pairing with grilled mains or bringing to potlucks, it’s easy to serve. Plus, it’s both simple and comforting, keeping everyone happy and full.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats in star shapes, decked out in red, white, and blue colors, are sprinkled with fun decorations and beautifully stacked on a plate.
Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Themed desserts always brighten gatherings, and Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats do it effortlessly. With their festive appearance and chewy texture, they’re fun to share. Ideal for larger groups, these treats quickly win over kids and adults alike. A playful addition to make your event stand out in a subtle way.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Balanced dishes like Antipasto Salad create great options for serving lighter fare at group gatherings. It’s flavorful and includes enough variety to please different palates. Perfect as a side or as a main dish, it fits into almost any table setting. Its mix of textures makes it unique without being hard to put together.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized sandwiches pack a ton of boldness, and Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are no exception. They bring together hearty flavors in a format that’s perfect for passing around during gatherings. These sliders fit any casual event and are a crowd favorite for good reason. Simple to cook and easy to serve for big parties.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Refreshing combinations like Mango Shrimp Salad give dishes a tropical twist. Its mix of bold protein with a touch of sweetness creates a dish worth remembering. Perfect for smaller groups or a bright spot in a larger spread, it’s an effective way to bring variety. It’s flavorful and light enough to suit many gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty dishes fit gatherings easily, and Italian Pasta with Salami brings both flavor and ease to the table. Its mix of bold flavors works well as a standalone meal or with lighter side options. This pasta dish feels substantial enough to anchor any event menu. And its simplicity means it blends into both casual and formal occasions.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Vanilla and lemon cupcakes with swirled pink raspberry buttercream frosting, each topped with a fresh raspberry, arranged closely together.
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet and tangy desserts shine during celebrations, and Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting deliver perfectly. They’re bright and bite-sized, ideal for parties or events. With their focus on balanced flavors and a simple presentation, they’re an excellent dessert to share.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Quick bites like Sausage Balls are ideal for casual events and mingle food tables. They’re flavorful and easy to pick up, making them a convenient option for gatherings. Perfect for serving warm alongside dips or even standalone. Always a favorite for crowds who enjoy bold, snack-like foods in one bite.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bold and spicy dips draw crowds fast, and Buffalo Chicken Dip does just that. It’s got a balance between heat and richness that works well with chips, crackers, or veggie dippers. People recognize this dip immediately, making it a staple for fun gatherings. Add it to any party table and it’ll be gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack.
Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Treats that never disappoint, Chocolate Chip Cookies are always a welcome sight on dessert trays. Everyone knows and loves their familiar sweet taste and comforting look. They’re the kind of treat you can bake ahead and serve with confidence at any event. Easy to share and universally loved, making them a solid choice every time.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bold bites like Bacon Wrapped Smokies turn snack tables into hotspots at any gathering. Their sweet and savory appeal makes them a unique yet approachable option. These small bites fit well with casual events or can be served as part of a full meal spread. Great for keeping guests happy with something flavorful to grab.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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