Memorial Day is Grilling Day! - Kick off the Summer with these Fantastic Recipes!

Memorial Day is a day to honor those who have given their lives in defense of our country. It also signifies for many the beginning of summertime and the high season of barbecue. Whether feasting poolside, in a relaxing hammock or while watching your favorite war movie, grilling on Memorial Day is an American tradition because Memorial Day is Grilling Day!

To kick off your summer grilling season in style, we have compiled a collection of fantastic recipes that will impress your family and friends. From savory pork chops with plums, halloumi, and lemon to a hearty paella that will transport you to sunny Spain with every bite, the smoky flavors from the grill take each bite to the next level, making it perfect for serving at your Memorial Day gathering.

This Memorial Day, fire up your grill and celebrate the start of summer with these fantastic recipes that are sure to impress your guests. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones around the grill, and make this Memorial Day one to remember as you savor delicious food in honor of those who have served our country.

 

Over 19 Memorial Day Grilled Recipes - Memorial Day is Grilling Day!

 

 

Soy-Basted Chicken Kebabs with Sesame-Citrus Sprinkle

Soy-Basted Chicken Kebabs with Sesame-Citrus Sprinkle

Perfect for a waterside barbecue to kick off the Summer season, these kebabs feature a flavor-packed marinade of brown sugar, mirin, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Marinate the chicken overnight for the best results, then grill and baste with a thick, reduced glaze until beautifully caramelized.

 

 

Grilled Rib Eye with Shishito Pepper Salsa

Grilled Rib Eye with Shishito Pepper Salsa

Bringing flavor and heat together, Grilled Rib Eye with Shishito Pepper Salsa features tender and succulent sliced rib eye covered with charred and spicy salsa. 

 

 

  

Ginger-Miso Grilled Asparagus

Ginger-Miso Grilled Asparagus

Marinated spears in a mouthwatering mix of sweet mirin, white miso, seasoned rice wine vinegar, and fresh ginger. Grill them for a perfectly balanced char and softness. Loaded with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this dish is a grilling essential you don't want to miss.

 

   

Jalapeño Popper Burgers

Jalapeño Popper Burgers

Jalapeño Popper Burgers feature thick patties stuffed with a cheesy, jalapeno bacon blend that will blow the lid off your palate. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite condiments for an explosion of salty, gooey, spicy, crunchy goodness.

 

   

Skirt Steak Fajitas with Grilled Cabbage and Scallions

Skirt Steak Fajitas with Grilled Cabbage and Scallions

Bursting with flavor and glorious textures, surrounded by a warmed tortilla, these fajitas are perfect for relaxing outside. They feature a lime and cilantro marinade, freshly roasted vegetables, and handmade dried chile salsa.

 

 

Grilled Paella Mixta

Grilled Paella Mixta

This traditional grilled rice dish contains flavorful seafood and meat for an unbeatable summer dinner. The unique combination of shrimp, mussels, Spanish chorizo, and chicken is perfect for the barbecue. You’ll love how everything seamlessly cooks together in one pan for simple preparation.

 

 

Grilled Pork Chops with Plums, Halloumi, and Lemon

Grilled Pork Chops with Plums, Halloumi, and Lemon

This unique spin on classic grilled pork chops will take your summer grilling season up a notch. The plums give an extra sweetness that melts into the savory flavors of this delicious dish. The salty honey-olive oil coating also makes these pork chops tender and flavorful.

 

 

Southwestern Backyard Burgers

Southwestern Backyard Burgers

These patties will be a hit with family and friends. They feature a robust flavor profile of a mix of spices and meats! This is backyard cuisine at its best—super simple and quick, allowing you to get back to leisure and enjoy the outdoors.

 

  

Grilled Country-Style Pork Ribs

Grilled Country-Style Pork Ribs

Grilled Country-Style Pork Ribs involve letting a basic rub sit on the meat for at least four hours, rehydrating it, and seasoning it before grilling. Prepare your hammock under a shaded tree, fire up the grill, and get ready to remember our fallen heroes with great food because Memorial Day is Grilling Day!

 

  

Grilled Fish Tacos

Grilled Fish Tacos

These tacos will be a hit with your friends and family for a beachy BBQ or backyard bash. Fresh tilapia marinated in citrus and herbs and served with refreshing lime-mayo make our Grilled Fish Tacos perfect for a Memorial Day feast.

 

 

Grilled Summer Squash and Red Onion with Feta

Grilled Summer Squash and Red Onion with Feta

Say goodbye to soft, bland squash this summer, and hello to amazing new recipes because Memorial Day is Grilling Day! A lovely side dish or light meal, these veggies feature roasted veggies topped with tangy vinegar, garlic, and salty feta.

 

  

Citrus-Brined Grilled Pork Chops

Citrus-Brined Grilled Pork Chops

It's all about soaking them in fresh orange, lime, and lemon to moisten and bring out the savory goodness of the pork. This easy and delicious recipe will have your mouth watering before you even taste it!

 

 

 

Grilled Garlic and Black Pepper Shrimp

Grilled Garlic and Black Pepper Shrimp

Grilled Garlic and Black Pepper Shrimp is an ideal combination of garlic, lime, salt, and pepper. You’ll need a triple batch to satisfy this craving!

 

 

 

Soy Marinated Grilled Flank Steak and Scallions

Soy Marinated Grilled Flank Steak and Scallions

With a wonderfully tasty presentation and character, this flank steak is perfect for an early dinner with succulent moisture, salt, and subtle sweetness.

 

 

 

Grilled Swordfish with Tomatoes and Oregano

Grilled Swordfish with Tomatoes and Oregano

With beautiful punchy flavors, Grilled Swordfish with Tomatoes and Oregano is perfect for a warm holiday next to the pool with a refreshing drink and friends.

 

 

  

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Caesar-ish Dressing

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Caesar-ish Dressing

Featuring tangy mustard-marinated chicken and refreshing funnel-basil slaw, this fantastic chicken sandwich will deliver a thrilling smile to you and yours.

 

 

 

Cajun Steak with Apricot-Orange Glaze

Cajun Steak with Apricot-Orange Glaze

Cayenne pepper adds heat, while the seductive apricot-orange glaze addictively draws you back for more. Grill, slice, and serve for a powerful demonstration of the power of grilled steak to subdue the rowdiest of appetites.

 

 

Chicken Gyros

Chicken Gyros

The perfect dish to enjoy by the pool under an umbrella with a refreshing drink in hand, these Chicken Gyros are an explosion of textures and freshness. They feature lemon and garlic marinated chicken, crisp fresh vegetables, and refreshing creamy tzatziki sauce.

 

 

 

Grilled Chicken Wings with Shishito Peppers and Herbs

Grilled Chicken Wings with Shishito Peppers and Herbs

Featuring fresh herbs, peppers, and lime vinaigrette, these wings burst with flavor, aroma, and heat. The wings are grilled over medium heat to allow the fat to render and the skin to crisp. The peppers are tossed in oil and grilled till charred and blistered. Serve on a platter, drizzling the remaining vinaigrette over the chicken and peppers.

 

 

Bistro Steak Sandwiches

Bistro Steak Sandwiches

Rich and sweet, these sandwiches are perfect for a backyard feast around the pool with friends and family. Skirt or Flank steak is recommended because it is thin and gets a beautiful char quickly. Served on toasted buns, these steak sandwiches are a hearty and sweet work of magic. 

 

 

Baby Back Ribs with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

Baby Back Ribs with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

Brush on the barbecue sauce every five minutes as the ribs finish crisping and caramelizing. With robust flavor and an unflawed balance of sweet and savory, these ribs finish with addicting appeal.