May 26, 2021

By Madisson Haynes

Small snacks are just a start to the munchies made for Memorial Day. Finger foods, full-blown entrees, desserts to cocktails — the options are endless when it comes to the day's delicious foods. Whether you're planning a full menu or just want a simple side, we've curated a playlist of videos and recipes to help you make this Memorial Day a memorable one for your taste buds.

You can watch these videos and more on the PBS Video App and on PBS Food.

Dinner

Radish and Oat Berry Summer Salad

We start off our Memorial Day menu with a salad. But not just any ole' bowl of greens. This colorful summer dish courtesy of Kitchen Vignettes includes radishes and whole oat berries, which are both greatly under-appreciated. Have your ingredients at the ready and prepare to gain a greater level of respect for this often overlooked apéritif.

If you're looking for a side that's more of a 'main,' see below for alternatives. Mozzarella tomato orzo salad courtesy of Fresh Tastes is a surefire way to get your tastebuds going. Or try out Greek pasta salad if you're looking for a different take on the dish.

If you still want something green, you can't go wrong with an asparagus salad. While the radish salad above has whole oat berries, why not try a salad with wheat berries as seen below? The opportunities are endless when it comes to appetizers and small plates. 

Succotash

Ok, hear us out. This recipe is another salad (of sorts). But there's not much that tops a dish with versatility, and salads just so happen to be in that category. That's why this succotash courtesy of Kitchen Vignettes is our go-to summer side. Plus, you can grow all of the ingredients in your own garden. So if you're looking for a simple, nourishing and delicious meal, succotash is your answer.

If you want an addition to our succotash selection, see below for more delicious options. Whether served as an appetizer or an entree, these dishes are top of our list. 

A cheesy heirloom tomato tart is wonderful paired with an additional veggie or even something heartier. Curry grilled lamb is a spicy favorite that won't disappoint. The classic Cobb salad is a must have, but mix it up a bit and make wraps instead. Keeping with the salad theme are white beans, which make an excellent option if you've had enough lettuce.

Dessert

Apple Pie

Our favorite time is when it's time for dessert, and apple pie is the obvious choice when it comes to Memorial Day. This apple pie recipe is courtesy of john Bunker, "The Apple Whisperer," as told on Kitchen Vignettes. This sweet, crisp dessert is definitely a contender.

If apple pie isn't your favorite, check out these options below. Martha Stewart's two berry tart is a fresh dessert that isn't too sweet. Or, you can go a whole new route and make Martha's cuatro leches cake.

You can't go wrong with her blueberry lattice pie or raspberry mascarpone tart. We might just actually recommend both for the highest level of satisfaction.

Lilac Coconut Cream Tarts

Want something more bite-sized? Look no further. These lilac coconut cream tarts courtesy of Kitchen Vignettes are just the sweet treat Memorial Day calls for. Fresh lilacs lend an enchanting aroma to this springtime twist on the classic coconut cream pie.

If lilac isn't your thing, there are plenty more sweet treats below that may suit your fancy. Mini strawberry pavlovas never disappoint, and brownie cupcakes with sugared pansies take the cake. Carrot cake is a classic when it comes to produce-themed desserts, and lemon and yogurt just go hand-in-hand.

All in all, these dessert options are more than memorable.

Drinks

Cucumber Strawberry Cooler

Let's be honest, the beverage list can sometimes make or break Memorial Day. So why not add some variety to the mix. Our recommendation is to cool off with the perfect cocktail — the cucumber strawberry cooler courtesy of Fresh Tastes. This adult beverage is refreshing, light and easy to sip. Plus, you can leave out the vodka for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink. 

Don't fear, there are different cocktail options below. Beware though, fruit is the name of the game of our Memorial Day drink menu. From margaritas to spritzers, the cocktail categories are endless. Our cantaloupe, raspberry, watermelon and orange features below only graze the surface of our adult-only options.