With the unofficial end of summer right around the corner it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate with a big party and plenty of food. Labor Day is when grills fire up, tables fill fast and everyone digs in like it might be the last cookout of the year. Burgers, ribs, salads and sides carry the day because no one wants fussy recipes or complicated prep when the backyard is full of people. The best food is easy to cook, holds up outside and keeps guests coming back for seconds. This collection brings together everything needed to close out summer with a table that feels just as big as the occasion.
Blueberry White Bean Salad
White beans form the base of this salad with blueberries, basil, mint and pickled red onions mixed throughout. A tahini turmeric dressing coats everything in a creamy texture with a hint of spice. Sprouts, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds finish it off with crunch and extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry White Bean Salad
Grilled Potato Wedges
Potatoes are cut into thick wedges and brushed with olive oil and spices before hitting the grill. They develop crisp edges while staying soft inside. The char from the grill adds flavor and the wedges can be served plain or with dipping sauces.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Potato Wedges
Bison Burgers
Ground bison is seasoned lightly and formed into patties that grill quickly while staying juicy. The burgers are topped with cheddar and sauce along with classic burger toppings. Bison brings a slightly richer flavor than beef and makes for a lean but hearty burger.
Get the Recipe: Bison Burgers
Creamy Cucumber Salad
Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed with quick pickled onions and a lightened up creamy dressing. The flavors are crisp and cool while the onions add just enough tang. It’s simple to put together and highlights fresh produce at its peak.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cucumber Salad
Greek Pasta Salad
Short pasta is tossed with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion and olives then finished with crumbled feta. A simple vinaigrette coats everything evenly so the flavors meld as it chills. The salad holds up well when made ahead and the vegetables keep it crisp and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Greek Pasta Salad
Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad
Grilled zucchini, peppers and onions are tossed with orzo pasta and coated in a tart cherry balsamic glaze. The vegetables add smokiness while the glaze gives a touch of sweetness. Served warm or chilled, it holds flavor and texture equally well.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad
Grilled Hummus Berry Flatbread
Flatbread is topped with hummus, grilled corn and fresh berries then drizzled with roasted garlic parsley pesto. The mix of sweet and savory toppings creates depth and the flatbread base holds up well on the grill. It’s easy to slice into pieces and serve.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hummus Berry Flatbread
Feta Beet Salad
Cooked beets are sliced and topped with crumbled feta, chopped pistachios and fresh herbs. A lemon and olive oil dressing brings brightness that balances the earthy flavor of the beets. The combination of creamy cheese, crunchy nuts and citrus makes every bite layered and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Feta Beet Salad
Grilled BBQ Short Ribs
Short ribs are coated with a spice rub and grilled slowly until the meat is tender. Barbecue sauce can be brushed on at the end for extra flavor. A pineapple salsa served alongside brings brightness to the rich ribs.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Short Ribs
Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad
Fresh corn kernels are cut from the cob and mixed with ripe tomatoes and basil. Olive oil and a splash of vinegar pull the ingredients together into a light salad. The sweetness of the corn balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a clean and simple dish.
Get the Recipe: Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad
Pulled Pork Sliders
Hawaiian rolls are filled with tender pulled pork that’s cooked in barbecue sauce until it’s rich and saucy. The sliders are finished with crisp coleslaw that adds crunch and a tangy flavor. The rolls stay soft even after baking which makes them easy to grab and eat in a few bites.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Sliders
Cucumber Melon Salad
Slices of cucumber and sweet cantaloupe are paired with pickled red onions for a mix of crisp and juicy textures. A light dressing ties the flavors together without overpowering the fruit. The salad is refreshing and brings contrast to heavier main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Melon Salad
Red Cabbage Slaw
Shredded red cabbage is tossed with apples, raisins and a honey Dijon dressing. The combination is crunchy and tangy with a touch of sweetness from the fruit. It avoids heavy mayonnaise and keeps the focus on clean flavors that stand out with grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Slaw
Blueberry BBQ Brie Burger
Beef patties are grilled and topped with creamy brie, crispy bacon and a blueberry barbecue sauce. Arugula adds freshness that balances the rich flavors. The combination of savory and sweet makes the burger stand out from a standard version.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry BBQ Brie Burger
Mango Black Bean Salad
Black beans are mixed with cubes of ripe mango, diced peppers and onion for a balance of sweet and savory flavors. A lime-based dressing brightens the mix while cilantro adds freshness. It comes together quickly and the beans give it enough weight to feel substantial.
Get the Recipe: Mango Black Bean Salad
Balsamic Tofu Pasta Salad
Short pasta is tossed with marinated tofu cubes and a variety of chopped summer vegetables. Everything is coated in a simple balsamic dressing that adds acidity and ties the flavors together. The tofu gives the salad protein while the vegetables keep it colorful and crisp.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Tofu Pasta Salad
Elk Burgers
Ground elk is mixed with seasonings and formed into patties that cook up tender and flavorful. The lean meat benefits from careful cooking to stay juicy. Once grilled, the burgers hold up well to classic toppings and buns.
Get the Recipe: Elk Burgers
Pickled Pineapple BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
Pulled pork is piled on bread and topped with pineapple slices that have been pickled for a sweet and tangy kick. The barbecue sauce and fruit combine for a balanced flavor. The sandwich is hearty and easy to assemble for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Pineapple BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
Broccoli Raisin Salad
Steamed broccoli florets are combined with raisins, bacon and pumpkin seeds for a mix of sweet and savory flavors. The dressing uses Dijon mustard and a touch of honey for creaminess with balance. It’s a salad that holds together well in the fridge and tastes even better once chilled.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Raisin Salad