For us, Memorial Day Weekend signals the start of the summer. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of our favorite recipes to enjoy by the pool, on the lake, or at the beach.
No matter where you choose to celebrate, there’s always a way to incorporate fresh herbs into your favorite foods. All of these options celebrate the season’s best produce, including delectable, fresh herbs that can be plucked directly from your Gardenuity container garden.
Read on to get inspired for your Memorial Day menu!
Cocktails
We love a summer margarita! Cool off with this refreshing basil and lime option, or really embrace the season with this watermelon concoction. You could also spice things up with our dirty margarita, a take on a dirty martini that swaps olive juice for jalapeno brine.
If you are less of a tequila lover, why not whip up a batch of frozen southsides? This recipe makes enough for a crowd.
Salads & Starters
Get the party started with apps and salads right off the bat. Guacamole is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser, and you’ll be sure to please everyone with this cilantro-free variation. For super green options, we love both our green goddess spread (amazing on veggies and crackers) and this fresh spinach and artichoke dip.
Really embrace the summer spirit with your salads. Fire up the grill for your romaine base–a grilled lettuce really rounds out the flavors of whatever recipe you choose to follow (we love this sunny herb salad). You could also do a delicious watermelon and feta salad, garnished with basil and fresh mint to keep things balanced and interesting.
Mains
A cookout calls for grilling! Spice up everything you put on the grill with our favorite dried herb salt rub, delicious on everything from burgers and barbecue to veggies and fish. And speaking of burgers–why not mix things up with a from-scratch veggie burger? Packed with black beans, quinoa, and spices, this recipe will convert even carnivores to plant-based diets.
If you are wary of grilling or find yourself somewhere without one, never fear: the humble taco is here to save the day. No one we’ve made them for has turned down these cauliflower tacos with a tangy herb gremolata. Go the extra mile by whipping up some copycat Fuzzy’s garlic sauce, and you’ve got yourself a party.
Sides
To us, a cookout is all about the sides. And while we love soggy chips and suspicious potato salad as much as the next person, we really love sides that celebrate the best ingredients of summer. For instance, this herby fruit salad is one of the best ways to get your daily servings of vitamin C without sacrificing any bit of flavor. Those celebrating inside should absolutely be making a batch of our favorite deviled eggs, while those lucky enough for an outdoor party can turn to our anything-but-boring garlic potatoes for a hearty, delicious dish to round out the meal.
Treats
If you haven’t filled up on dips, salads, tacos, and sides, you’ll definitely want a little something sweet. Our go-to for beating the heat is something frozen. This mint hot fudge sundae is perfect for chocolate lovers, while our strawberry and mint popsicles are great for fruit lovers.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, wow your guests with broccoli ice cream (yes, broccoli!), a scrumptious frozen delight that also gets in a full serving of vegetables.
How are you celebrating Memorial Day?