Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a cookout filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and good company? This year, ditch the same old burgers and hot dogs and elevate your Labor Day cookout with these incredible recipes. From appetizers to desserts, we’ve got you covered with detailed instructions and tips to make your cookout a resounding success. Get ready to fire up the grill and impress your guests with these crowd-pleasing dishes.
**Appetizers to Kickstart the Party**
No cookout is complete without a selection of tasty appetizers to get the party started. These recipes are easy to prepare and perfect for mingling and snacking while the main course is grilling.
* **Grilled Watermelon and Feta Skewers with Balsamic Glaze**
This sweet and savory appetizer is a refreshing twist on a classic combination. The grilled watermelon adds a smoky flavor that complements the salty feta and tangy balsamic glaze.
*Ingredients:*
* 1 small seedless watermelon, cubed
* 8 ounces feta cheese, cubed
* Fresh mint leaves
* 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
* Olive oil
* Wooden skewers
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the watermelon cubes with olive oil.
3. Thread the watermelon and feta cheese onto the skewers, alternating between the two.
4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the watermelon is slightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh mint leaves and balsamic glaze.
* **Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Pineapple Salsa**
These shrimp skewers are packed with flavor and a hint of spice. The pineapple salsa adds a tropical sweetness that balances the heat.
*Ingredients:*
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup diced pineapple
* 1/2 cup diced red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* Lime juice to taste
* Wooden skewers
*Instructions:*
1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the pineapple, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice to make the salsa.
4. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
5. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve the shrimp skewers with the pineapple salsa.
* **Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado and Lime**
A vibrant and flavorful salad that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The sweetness of grilled corn perfectly complements the creamy avocado and zesty lime dressing.
*Ingredients:*
* 4 ears of corn, husks removed
* 2 avocados, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* Juice of 2 limes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are slightly charred.
3. Let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
4. In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, avocado, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss gently to combine and serve.
**Main Course Masterpieces: Grill-Centric Delights**
The heart of any cookout is the main course. These recipes offer a variety of grilled options to satisfy every palate, from classic barbecue to innovative seafood dishes.
* **BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw**
No cookout is complete without BBQ pulled pork. This recipe uses a slow-cooker or smoker for tender, flavorful pork that’s perfect for sandwiches.
*Ingredients:*
* 4-5 pound pork shoulder (Boston butt)
* 2 tablespoons paprika
* 1 tablespoon garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
* Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
* Hamburger buns
*Instructions:*
1. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. **Slow Cooker Method:** Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds.
4. **Smoker Method:** Smoke the pork shoulder at 225°F (107°C) for 12-14 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 203°F (95°C).
5. Once the pork is cooked, shred it with two forks.
6. Mix the shredded pork with the BBQ sauce.
7. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with coleslaw.
* **Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce**
A healthy and elegant option that’s perfect for seafood lovers. The lemon-dill sauce adds a bright and fresh flavor to the grilled salmon.
*Ingredients:*
* 4 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin on or off
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
* Juice of 1 lemon
* 1 clove garlic, minced
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the salmon fillets for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the salmon is grilling, prepare the lemon-dill sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, and garlic.
5. Mix well.
6. Serve the grilled salmon with the lemon-dill sauce.
* **Grilled Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions**
A flavorful and customizable option that’s perfect for a crowd. Serve with tortillas, your favorite toppings, and let everyone create their own fajitas.
*Ingredients:*
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, sliced
* 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
* 1 large onion, sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 packet fajita seasoning
* Tortillas
* Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, etc.
*Instructions:*
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, bell peppers, and onion.
2. Add the olive oil and fajita seasoning and toss to coat.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken and vegetables for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve the fajitas with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
* **Grilled Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter**
A quintessential cookout choice, grilled ribeye steak is always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe elevates the steak with a flavorful herb butter that melts into the meat as it cooks.
*Ingredients:*
* 2 ribeye steaks (1-1.5 inches thick)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
*Herb Butter:*
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
*Instructions:*
1. Prepare the herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest. Mix well and set aside.
2. Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Brush the steaks with olive oil.
4. Preheat your grill to high heat.
5. Grill the steaks for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium, and 145-155°F for medium-well.
6. Remove the steaks from the grill and top each steak with a generous pat of herb butter.
7. Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
**Side Dishes to Complement the Main Course**
A great main course deserves equally delicious side dishes. These recipes offer a variety of options to complement your grilled creations.
* **Classic Potato Salad**
A cookout staple, this potato salad is creamy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned.
*Ingredients:*
* 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup yellow mustard
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Paprika for garnish
*Instructions:*
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs.
4. Add the potatoes and gently mix to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with paprika and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
* **Creamy Coleslaw**
A refreshing and tangy coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to BBQ and other grilled dishes.
*Ingredients:*
* 1 head of cabbage, shredded
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
*Instructions:*
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
* **Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Vinaigrette**
A colorful and healthy side dish that’s easy to grill. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy sweetness.
*Ingredients:*
* 1 red bell pepper, cubed
* 1 green bell pepper, cubed
* 1 yellow bell pepper, cubed
* 1 zucchini, sliced
* 1 yellow squash, sliced
* 1 red onion, quartered
* Cherry tomatoes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
* Wooden skewers
*Instructions:*
1. Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between the different types.
2. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the vegetable skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
* **Macaroni and Cheese**
A classic comfort food that’s always a hit, especially with kids. Make it from scratch for the best flavor.
*Ingredients:*
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
*Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping*
*Instructions:*
1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the salt and pepper. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
6. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
**Refreshing Drinks to Quench Your Thirst**
Keep your guests cool and refreshed with these delicious drink recipes.
* **Watermelon Lemonade**
A summery twist on a classic lemonade. The watermelon adds a refreshing sweetness and vibrant color.
*Ingredients:*
* 6 cups cubed watermelon
* 1 cup water
* 1 cup sugar
* 1 cup lemon juice
* Water to dilute
* Ice
*Instructions:*
1. Blend the watermelon in a blender until smooth.
2. Strain the watermelon juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp.
3. In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar and heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved to create a simple syrup. Let cool.
4. In a pitcher, combine the watermelon juice, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
5. Add water to dilute to your desired strength.
6. Serve over ice.
* **Sparkling Raspberry Iced Tea**
A sophisticated and refreshing drink that’s perfect for a cookout. The raspberries add a fruity sweetness and the sparkling water adds a touch of fizz.
*Ingredients:*
* 6 cups brewed black tea, cooled
* 1 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
* 1/2 cup sugar
* Juice of 1 lemon
* Sparkling water
* Mint sprigs for garnish
*Instructions:*
1. In a saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the raspberries are softened and the sugar is dissolved.
3. Strain the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds.
4. In a pitcher, combine the cooled black tea and raspberry syrup.
5. Add sparkling water to your desired strength.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with mint sprigs.
* **Classic Margarita**
A quintessential cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. This recipe offers a classic preparation for a crowd-pleasing beverage.
*Ingredients:*
* 2 ounces tequila (blanco or silver)
* 1 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
* 1 ounce Cointreau or triple sec
* Lime wedge and coarse salt for rimming the glass
*Instructions:*
1. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a margarita glass. Dip the rim in coarse salt.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau or triple sec.
3. Shake well until chilled.
4. Strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
**Desserts to End the Cookout on a Sweet Note**
No cookout is complete without a delicious dessert. These recipes are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
* **S’mores Dip**
A crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for sharing. This s’mores dip is easy to make and incredibly delicious.
*Ingredients:*
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Marshmallows
* Graham crackers for dipping
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In an oven-safe skillet or baking dish, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the chocolate is melted.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Top with marshmallows and bake for another 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted.
6. Serve with graham crackers for dipping.
* **Strawberry Shortcake**
A classic summer dessert that’s easy to make and always a hit. The strawberries are sweet and juicy, and the shortcakes are light and fluffy.
*Ingredients:*
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
* 3/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 4 cups sliced strawberries
* 1/2 cup sugar
* Whipped cream
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While the shortcakes are baking, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar in a bowl.
8. Let sit for 15 minutes to macerate the strawberries.
9. Split the shortcakes in half and top with the macerated strawberries and whipped cream.
* **Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Ice Cream**
A simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for grilling. The grilled pineapple is caramelized and sweet, and the coconut ice cream adds a tropical touch.
*Ingredients:*
* 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* Pinch of cinnamon
* Coconut ice cream
*Toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)*
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the pineapple rings with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Grill the pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are caramelized and slightly softened.
4. Serve the grilled pineapple warm with a scoop of coconut ice cream. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
With these recipes, your Labor Day cookout is sure to be a memorable event. Remember to adjust the recipes based on the number of guests you are expecting and don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch. Happy grilling!