A collection of vibrant and flavorful dishes perfect for Memorial Day celebrations, including grilled meats, refreshing salads, and decadent desserts.
Ingredients
Scale:
2 lbs of chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
1 lb of beef burgers (ground beef, 80/20 blend)
1 lb of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
½ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
¼ cup honey
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
1 large watermelon (cubed)
2 cups arugula
1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
½ cup balsamic vinaigrette
2 loaves of sandwich bread (whole grain or white)
1 lb deli turkey or ham (nitrate-free)
8 slices of cheddar or Swiss cheese
1 cup lettuce (washed and dried)
1 tomato (sliced)
½ cup mayonnaise
2 cups strawberries (sliced)
2 cups blueberries
1 cup whipped cream
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
Marinate the Meat: Place the chicken thighs, beef burgers, and pork ribs in separate resealable plastic bags. Pour the marinade over each type of meat, seal the bags, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil.
Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest.
Grill the Burgers: Shape the ground beef into patties, season with salt and pepper, and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Add cheese slices during the last minute to melt.
Grill the Pork Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill, cooking for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and caramelized.
Prepare the Salad: In a bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, arugula, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss to combine.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread mayonnaise on slices of bread, layer with turkey or ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Cut sandwiches into halves or quarters.
Serve the Desserts: Layer sliced strawberries and blueberries in cups, top with whipped cream.
