Somehow, the end of summer always comes way sooner than we'd like it to. Fortunately, Labor Day weekend lets us indulge in the season's finest before we go into hibernation mode. During your three-day weekend, celebrate summer's last hurrah with BBQ favorites, grilled veggies, and fruity desserts.
Of course, we could always fall back on the tradition cookout fare – hot dogs and hamburgers, potato salad, and baked beans. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that! As a matter of fact, if you look at our blog postings in July, you'll find one all about the almighty hot dog.
However, if you’re looking to raise the bar on your cookout menu, there are plenty of recipes that taste gourmet but are just as simple to prepare and serve as the standards you’re used to. Hopefully, the following will inspire your creativity and help you plan the perfect Labor Day BBQ.
Why not spice things up a bit? Skewered shrimp, grilled with our Barista Sauce or our Blistered Jalapeno & Fig Spread is easy to prepare, quick to cook on the grill, and shrimp is always a treat!
Skewered veggies are the perfect accompaniment! Take the season’s bountiful vegetable selection and grill up a healthy and fun kebab. Tomatoes, onions, peppers, brussels sprouts, and asparagus all make excellent grilled kebabs. I suggest making skewers of the same vegetables rather than alternating them on the same skewer since, for example, tomatoes are going to cook much faster than onions.
Serve up a salad that can be prepared ahead of time. Our Saigon Slaw would be a great choice.
Don’t forget to have a fabulous dessert on the menu. Again, I like to take advantage of the delicious fruit available at this time of year. I like to offer watermelon as one option, but I usually end up making something like these Basil Cupcakes with Strawberries, Balsamic Shallot and Black Garlic Sauce too. The fresh strawberries keep this dessert tasting of summer.
The season may be coming to an end, but don't let it pass without one last bash for the books. Labor Day gives us the perfect excuse to throw down our best warm-weather party knowledge. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée of your own or just looking for a dish to bring to your bestie’s, these recipes won’t disappoint.
Have a happy and safe Labor Day from all of us at Bellisari’s!
