Labor Day: The Last Taste Of Summer
Labor Day may mark the unofficial end of summer, but there’s no reason to let the season go quietly. Fire up the grill, fill the table with summer favorites and savor every last bite of summer! Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash, heading to a daily picnic or simply enjoying a long weekend at home, the perfect Labor Day menu should be festive, flavorful and most-importantly, easy to enjoy with family and friends.
Fire Up The Grill
Nothing says Labor Day like a sizzling grill. Keep the main course simple with juicy grilled chicken, burgers, steaks, sausages or kabobs.
Looking to switch things up?
- Try steak topped with compound butter or colorful veggie and meat kabobs.
- The grill isn’t just for the main course, either – corn on the cob, peppers, zucchini and even fruits like peaches and pineapple make delicious additions.
- Serve grilled foods on separate platters, especially if you’re offering vegetarian options.
- Labeling dishes can also help guests quickly identify common allergens, spicy ingredients or meal-free choices.
Everything Cheeseburgers
This recipe from Price Chopper Market 32 features juicy, perfectly grilled patties seasoned with PICS signature everything blend spice mix. Each bite bursts with the bold, crave-worthy flavors you love from your favorite everything bagel, now paired with melted cheese and classic burger fixings served on a toasted pretzel bun.
Greek Kabobs
Farm Flavor brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your Labor Day. Chicken, pork and beef all work well in this recipe served alongside greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives and homemade tzatziki.
Mexican Street Corn Brats
Take your Labor Day cookout to the next level with these Mexican street corn brats, loaded with sweet corn, creamy goodness and a kick of Mexican-inspired flavor. They’re a fun, festive twist on the classic backyard favorite!
Bring On The Sides
The best summer gatherings are all about the sides. Keep the menu fresh and colorful with classic potato salad, creamy coleslaw, italian pasta salad or a crisp Caprese-inspired salad.
For something a little unexpected, add a watermelon, quinoa and feta salad or simply a fresh fruit salad. These make-ahead options are easy to serve and give guests plenty of choices alongside grilled favorites.
Fire Grilled Vegetables
There’s nothing like the smoky, charred flavor of fire-grilled vegetables to complement your Labor Day cookout. This simple recipe from Farm Flavor lets the natural sweetness of the fresh veggies shine, enhanced by a simple marinade and the magic of the grill.
Italian Pasta Salad
Why settle for the usual macaroni salad when you can dig into this colorful pasta salad loaded with lots of good stuff, and tossed with a light, zesty vinaigrette? Thanks to the American Dairy Association Mideast for allowing us to share this keeper!
Watermelon, Quinoa and Feta Salad
Enjoy this symphony of flavors and textures, and elevate your salad game with this unique and mouth watering combination. Each forkful is a burst of sweetness, crunch, and savory goodness.
Save Room For Something Sweet
Finish the celebration with one last taste of summer. Grilled peaches topped with vanilla ice cream, berry shortcake, fruit crisp or homemade ice cream are all easy ways to end the meal on a sweet note. And don't forget the s’mores!
Strawberry Shortcake
Sweet, juicy strawberries, fluffy biscuits and a cloud of whipped cream make this classic dessert complements of Farm Fresh a Labor Day favorite. It’s the perfect light and summery finale for your backyard celebration.
S'mores Board
Wrap up your Labor Day celebration around the bonfire with a fun Farm Flavor S’mores Board filled with classic favorites plus extras like crisp apple slices, salty pretzels and more for gooey, crunchy and chocolatey fun!
Keep The Drinks Cool
No Labor Day celebration is complete without something refreshing in hand. Lemonade, iced tea, sparking water and fruit-infused water are easy non-alcoholic options that everyone can enjoy.
For the adults, serve a summer cocktail or sangria featuring seasonal fruit. A big pitcher or batch cocktail means less time playing bartender and more time enjoying the party.
Create a self-serve drink station with plenty of ice, cups, straws and garnishes. Keep the alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks clearly separated, and offer water throughout the gathering.
Please remember to both serve and drink alcohol responsibly.
Cucumber Mint Vodka Spritzer
Fresh cucumber, citrus and mint combine with a lemon flavored vodka for a smooth, light and refreshing summer cocktail. For those looking for something non alcoholic, the Spa Spritzer is an equally delicious and refreshing beverage similar to its boozy counterpart.
Sparkling Summer Sangria
Mix up a pitcher of this sparking, fruit-laden sangria, bursting with juicy citrus and ripe berries - the irresistible, ice-cold sip for sun-drenched backyard barbecues.
Keep The Food Safe
Be sure to keep hot food hot and
cold food cold, especially when dining outdoors. Food left sitting at unsafe temperatures for too long can allow harmful bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of food borne illness. Refrigerate perishable leftovers promptly rather than leaving them sitting out on the buffet table.
