11 Make-Ahead Memorial Day Recipes That’ll Save You Time And Stress

11 Make-Ahead Memorial Day Recipes That’ll Save You Time And Stress – because holiday weekends should be about relaxation, not last-minute kitchen chaos. As you plan your backyard barbecue or lakeside picnic, these brilliant make-ahead dishes let you do nearly all the prep work in advance, leaving you free to actually enjoy the festivities with family and friends. From crowd-pleasing pasta salads that taste better after chilling overnight to tender pulled pork that simply needs reheating, these recipes take the pressure off while delivering maximum flavor.

Imagine serving juicy marinated grilled chicken without the morning-of prep, or pulling a stunning no-bake dessert from the fridge that you assembled days prior. We’ve included smart storage tips and reheating instructions for every dish, plus options for every course – appetizers that won’t wilt in the heat, hearty mains that hold up beautifully, and desserts that actually improve with time. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or keeping it low-key, these time-saving recipes ensure your Memorial Day is as stress-free as it is delicious.

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Marinade

Grilled chicken skewers are a fantastic choice for your Memorial Day gathering. They are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for a stress-free day. The marinade adds a burst of flavor, making the chicken juicy and tender, sure to impress your guests.

You can easily customize the marinade to suit your taste, whether you prefer a tangy citrus profile or something with a bit of spice. Once marinated, simply thread the chicken onto skewers and grill them to perfection. Serve these skewers with fresh veggies or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip

Fruit skewers with yogurt dip are a fun and healthy choice for your Memorial Day gathering. These colorful, bite-sized treats are not only visually appealing but also bursting with natural sweetness. The fresh fruit pairs beautifully with a creamy yogurt dip, making it a delightful snack that everyone will love.

Preparing this recipe is super simple! Just chop your favorite fruits into chunks, thread them onto skewers, and whip up a quick yogurt dip. It’s a great way to add a refreshing touch to your menu while saving you time and stress this holiday.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup pineapple, cubed
• 1 cup cantaloupe, cubed
• 1 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Wooden skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: Wash and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are all roughly the same size for even skewering.
2. Assemble the Skewers: Take a wooden skewer and thread the pieces of fruit onto it, alternating colors and types for a vibrant look.
3. Make the Yogurt Dip: In a small bowl, mix yogurt and honey (if using) until well combined. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
4. Serve: Arrange the fruit skewers on a platter with the yogurt dip in the center. Enjoy this refreshing treat!

Zesty Slaw for Tacos and Sandwiches

This zesty slaw adds a refreshing crunch to any taco or sandwich. With a mix of crunchy cabbage, vibrant carrots, and a hint of cilantro, it brings a burst of flavor that perfectly complements grilled meats or sandwiches. Best of all, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for your Memorial Day gathering.

You can prepare this slaw a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge. It’s the ideal side to balance out the richness of heavier dishes, and you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients!

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 2 cups purple cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, julienned carrots, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mix and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.

Savory Quinoa Salad with Feta

This Savory Quinoa Salad with Feta is a delicious and refreshing dish, perfect for any gathering. Packed with protein from quinoa and a burst of flavor from feta cheese and fresh veggies, it offers a satisfying taste that pairs well with any main course.

Making this salad is a breeze! With a few simple steps, you can whip up a dish that not only looks vibrant but also keeps well in the fridge. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for Memorial Day or any summer barbecue.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until quinoa is fluffy.
2. Prepare the Veggies: While the quinoa cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature!

Chilled Pasta Salad with Vegetables

This chilled pasta salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for Memorial Day gatherings. Packed with colorful vegetables and a simple dressing, it’s not only easy to make but also a delight for your taste buds. The combination of pasta, fresh veggies, and herbs creates a satisfying dish that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your time with friends and family.

This recipe is all about convenience and flavor. You can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it versatile and appealing to everyone. Serve it as a side dish or as a light main course, and watch it disappear from the table!

Ingredients

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

This recipe for corn on the cob topped with herb butter is the perfect summer side dish. It’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ or gathering. The sweet, juicy corn pairs beautifully with the creamy, herb-infused butter, creating a delightful taste experience.

You can easily make this dish ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld while saving you time on the day of your event. Just grill the corn and whip up the herb butter, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to go!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter, parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
3. Serve: Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly. Spread the herb butter generously over each ear of corn before serving.

Slow-Cooked BBQ Ribs

Slow-cooked BBQ ribs are a mouthwatering classic that captures the essence of summer gatherings. Tender, juicy ribs slathered in tangy barbecue sauce create a delightful combination of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal effort while allowing the slow cooker to do the heavy lifting. Just season the ribs, let them cook low and slow, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready for your Memorial Day celebration!

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
3. Cook: Place the ribs in your slow cooker. Pour barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure they are well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the ribs are tender.
4. Finish: Once cooked, remove the ribs from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to broil.
5. Broil: Brush more barbecue sauce over the ribs and broil for 3-5 minutes until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly.
6. Serve: Slice the ribs and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a perfect Memorial Day feast!

Classic Potato Salad with a Twist

Potato salad is a timeless dish, perfect for gatherings and picnics. This version adds a unique twist that brings delightful flavors and a refreshing touch. The combination of creamy potatoes with zesty spices makes it not only comforting but also exciting to your taste buds.

This recipe is straightforward, making it an easy go-to for your Memorial Day BBQ. It can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other dishes!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup pickles, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes: Place the halved baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, chopped parsley, red onion, pickles, and optional chili flakes. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill: Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
5. Serve: Enjoy this refreshing potato salad at your next gathering!

Sizzling Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Sizzling shrimp tacos are a perfect choice for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor. The tender shrimp, seasoned just right, are wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with a refreshing avocado salsa that brings everything together. This recipe is not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic option for your Memorial Day gathering.

The combination of juicy shrimp and creamy avocado creates a delightful contrast, while a hint of lime adds zest. These tacos are easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy the festivities without any last-minute stress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and let marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Prepare the Avocado Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix diced avocado, chopped onion, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
4. Warm the Tortillas: In the same skillet, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with avocado salsa, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert Bars

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balance rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. They’re easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect addition to your Memorial Day spread.

The layers of chocolatey goodness combine with a smooth peanut butter filling for a taste that’s undeniably satisfying. These bars are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more!

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch pan.
2. Make the Peanut Butter Layer: In another bowl, blend creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread the mixture over the chocolate base evenly.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a small saucepan, heat chocolate chips and heavy cream over low heat until melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly, then spread it over the peanut butter layer.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to set. Once firm, cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Herbed Gazpacho for a Refreshing Starter

Herbed gazpacho is a light and flavorful soup that makes for an ideal starter at any summer gathering. Its bright, refreshing taste comes from fresh vegetables, herbs, and a hint of acidity, all blended into a smooth mixture. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking and just a bit of chopping!

This chilled soup not only cools you down but also brings a burst of vibrant flavors to your table. Pair it with some crusty bread for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Ingredients

• 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh basil and parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Combine all the chopped vegetables, garlic, and herbs in a large bowl.
2. Add the vegetable broth, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Blend the mixture using a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Final Thoughts

Memorial Day should be about honoring the holiday’s meaning while creating new memories with loved ones – not being stuck in the kitchen. These make-ahead recipes prove you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for convenience, with each dish carefully selected to taste even better after some advance preparation. As you try these time-saving solutions, you’ll discover the secret to truly relaxing on your long weekend: doing the work ahead of time so you can be fully present when the celebration begins. Here’s to a holiday filled with good food, great company, and none of the usual cooking stress!