10 Easy Recipes for a Labor Day Weekend BBQ
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Labor Day is the last big cookout of the summer and I want to make it count. Whether you are hosting a big backyard gathering or keeping it low-key with a few friends, these are the recipes that make the weekend feel special without stressing you out in the kitchen. A mix of crowd-pleasing mains, fresh sides, and fun snacks to send summer off in style.
Grilled Balsamic Chicken
Juicy, tangy, and packed with flavor from a simple balsamic marinade you can throw together in minutes. Easy to prep ahead and great for a crowd. This is the kind of recipe that looks effortless because it genuinely is. Full recipe: Grilled Balsamic Chicken
Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Skewers
My newest grill obsession. Chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory blend of fish sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs, grilled until perfectly charred. Serve with rice and a peanut dipping sauce for a Labor Day spread that stands out from the usual burger lineup. Full recipe: Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Skewers
Grilled Chimichurri Pork Tenderloin
Juicy pork tenderloin with a vibrant, garlicky chimichurri that works as both marinade and finishing drizzle. Impressive enough for a Labor Day spread and easy enough to prep completely ahead of time. Full recipe: Grilled Chimichurri Pork Tenderloin
Grilled Peach Salad
Sweet caramelized grilled peaches over peppery arugula with creamy mozzarella, toasted pistachios, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Light, beautiful, and the perfect way to celebrate the last of summer stone fruit. Full recipe: Grilled Peach Salad
Grilled Zucchini and Summer Squash
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A quick, easy side that goes with everything coming off the grill. A little marinade, a hot grill, and you have something light and delicious that rounds out any BBQ plate beautifully. The last of the summer squash never tasted so good. Full recipe: Grilled Zucchini and Summer Squash
Cucumber Watermelon Salad
Crisp, juicy, and insanely refreshing. Sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, salty feta, fresh mint and basil all tossed in a light honey lime dressing. Five minutes to pull together and it goes with absolutely everything coming off the grill. Full recipe: Cucumber Watermelon Salad
BBQ Chicken Flatbreads
A fun and easy alternative to burgers that the whole family loves. Crispy flatbread topped with BBQ chicken, melty cheese, and whatever toppings everyone wants. Set out a spread of toppings and let everyone build their own for a zero-complaint Labor Day dinner. Full recipe: BBQ Chicken Flatbreads
Chimichurri Steak Tacos
Juicy, perfectly seared flank steak loaded with a vibrant herb-packed chimichurri, sliced avocado, quick pickled red onions, and crumbled cotija – all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. The kind of taco that makes a regular Labor Day cookout feel like a proper occasion. Full recipe: Chimichurri Steak Tacos
Broccoli Crunch Salad
Crisp raw broccoli, chewy cranberries, slivered almonds, and Manchego in a tangy creamy dressing. The kind of salad that gets better the longer it sits, which makes it perfect for prepping ahead before guests arrive. Full recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Chicken Teriyaki Burgers
Juicy ground chicken patties coated in a homemade pineapple teriyaki sauce and topped with sweet grilled pineapple and caramelized red onions on a toasted brioche bun. Way more flavorful than your average chicken burger, totally kid-friendly, and the perfect reason to fire up the grill one more time before summer ends. Full recipe: Chicken Teriyaki Burgers
