8 Best Labor Day Recipes: Labor Day is the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family, enjoy the last days of summer, and of course, indulge in some delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a family picnic, or a potluck, these eight recipes will ensure your Labor Day feast is memorable and mouth-watering. From savory grills to refreshing salads and decadent desserts, we’ve got your menu covered.
1. Classic BBQ Ribs
Finger-Licking Good
Labor Day wouldn’t be complete without some classic BBQ ribs. These are slow-cooked to perfection, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a smoky, tangy flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Preparation
Remove the membrane from the ribs, mix the dry ingredients, and rub onto the ribs. Let them marinate for at least an hour. Grill over low heat for 3-4 hours, frequently basting with barbecue sauce. Serve with extra sauce for a truly indulgent dish.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Summer on a Stick
Sweet, smoky, and buttery, grilled corn on the cob is a simple yet irresistible side that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 6 ears of corn, husks removed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lime, parmesan, or herbs for garnish
Preparation
Brush the corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally until charred and tender, about 10 minutes. Garnish as desired and serve hot.
3. Patriotic Potato Salad
A Colorful Addition to Any Table
This potato salad uses red, white, and blue potatoes to add a patriotic twist to your Labor Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs assorted potatoes (red, white, and blue varieties), cubed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
Preparation
Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, mustard, onions, relish, salt, and pepper. Combine with the potatoes and let chill. Add chopped eggs before serving.
4. Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
Light and Refreshing
Perfect for hot weather, this salad is a delightful mix of sweet watermelon and tangy feta cheese, dressed with a hint of mint for extra freshness.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Combine watermelon, feta, and mint in a large bowl. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, and drizzle over the salad. Toss gently and serve chilled.
5. Smoky BBQ Chicken
A Crowd-Pleaser
This BBQ chicken recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for a stress-free Labor Day cookout.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Marinate the chicken in a mixture of barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
6. Easy Coleslaw
Crisp and Creamy
No barbecue is complete without a side of creamy coleslaw. This easy recipe can be whipped up in minutes and is a great complement to any grilled dish.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage, shredded
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Combine cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.
7. Lemonade Stand Pie
Sweet and Tart
This no-bake pie is as refreshing as a glass of lemonade on a hot day and is sure to be a hit at any Labor Day gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
Preparation
In a bowl, combine condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Fold in whipped topping. Pour into the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Serve chilled.
8. Classic Blueberry Cobbler
End on a Sweet Note
This blueberry cobbler is the perfect way to end your Labor Day meal; it’s simple, sweet, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Preparation
Toss blueberries with 1/3 cup sugar and place in a baking dish. Mix flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, milk, and melted butter until smooth. Dollop over the berries. Bake at 375°F for 35-45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Conclusion
Labor Day is the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and enjoy one last celebration of summer with family and friends. These eight recipes offer something for everyone, from classic barbecue favorites to refreshing salads and delightful desserts. So get cooking, enjoy the festivities, and make this Labor Day deliciously unforgettable!