Macys Early Memorial Day Weekend Deals: Recipes to Celebrate Savings and Flavor
Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, and that means two things: incredible deals at Macy’s and the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family. While you’re snagging amazing bargains during Macy’s early Memorial Day Weekend sale, why not elevate your celebration with some delicious recipes? This article provides you with a curated selection of dishes that are easy to prepare, perfect for a crowd, and designed to complement your long weekend of shopping and relaxation. We’ll explore appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts, all while keeping an eye on maximizing your time and enjoyment.
Planning Your Memorial Day Feast Around Macy’s Deals
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk strategy. Macy’s Memorial Day weekend deals are known for covering a wide range of products, from home goods and kitchen appliances to apparel and outdoor furniture. Knowing what you want to buy beforehand can help you plan your menu effectively. For instance, if you’re eyeing a new grill, you might want to plan a barbecue-themed meal. Or, if you’re thinking of getting new tableware, consider a sophisticated dinner party menu to showcase your new acquisitions.
Consider these tips while you plan:
* **Make a list:** Before browsing Macy’s deals, make a list of what you need or want. This will prevent impulse purchases and help you focus on items that genuinely enhance your life or complement your cooking endeavors.
* **Check the sales flyers:** Macy’s usually releases its Memorial Day Weekend sales flyers online well in advance. Browse these to pinpoint items you’re interested in and plan your shopping trip accordingly.
* **Shop early:** The best deals tend to disappear quickly, so aim to shop early in the weekend. This also gives you more time to prepare your chosen recipes.
* **Take advantage of online shopping:** Macy’s online store offers the same deals as the physical stores, often with additional online-only promotions. This can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on cooking.
Now, let’s get to the good part – the recipes!
Appetizers to Kick Off the Celebration
These appetizers are easy to prepare and perfect for setting the mood for a festive weekend.
1. Watermelon Feta Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing appetizer is a crowd-pleaser and takes only minutes to assemble. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the salty feta and tangy balsamic glaze.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small seedless watermelon, cubed
* 8 ounces feta cheese, cubed
* Fresh mint leaves
* Balsamic glaze
* Wooden skewers
**Instructions:**
1. Thread a cube of watermelon, a cube of feta, and a mint leaf onto each skewer.
2. Arrange the skewers on a platter.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
2. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Pita Chips
This classic dip is always a hit and can be made ahead of time. Serve with warm pita chips, baguette slices, or vegetables for dipping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Pita chips, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, red onion, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with pita chips.
3. Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
This simple yet flavorful appetizer is perfect for showcasing fresh summer produce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 cups chopped tomatoes
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Balsamic glaze (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. In a bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices.
6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired, and serve.
Main Courses to Impress Your Guests
These main courses are sure to be the star of your Memorial Day weekend celebration.
1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
This flavorful and healthy chicken is perfect for grilling. The lemon and herbs add a bright and refreshing flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour marinade over them.
3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium heat.
5. Grill chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
This is a great option if you want a hands-off main course. The slow cooker does all the work, and you’ll have tender and flavorful pulled pork for sandwiches.
**Ingredients:**
* 3-4 pound pork shoulder
* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup barbecue sauce
* Hamburger buns, for serving
* Coleslaw, for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
4. Pour barbecue sauce over the pork.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded with a fork.
6. Shred the pork with two forks.
7. Serve on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw, if desired.
3. Grilled Salmon with Asparagus
This healthy and elegant dish is perfect for a lighter meal. The grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the fresh asparagus.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 salmon fillets
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 lemon, sliced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Brush salmon fillets and asparagus with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Grill asparagus for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Serve salmon with asparagus and lemon slices.
Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
These side dishes will perfectly complement your main course and add variety to your Memorial Day feast.
1. Classic Potato Salad
No Memorial Day celebration is complete without potato salad. This classic recipe is creamy, flavorful, and always a hit.
**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. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain potatoes and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs.
4. Add potatoes to the bowl and gently mix to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with paprika before serving.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple. The herb butter adds a delicious and aromatic flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 ears of corn, husks and silk removed
* 1/2 cup butter, softened
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine butter, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush corn with herb butter.
4. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately.
3. Caprese Salad
This simple and refreshing salad is perfect for a hot day. The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a classic for a reason.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound fresh mozzarella, sliced
* 1 pound tomatoes, sliced
* Fresh basil leaves
* Olive oil
* Balsamic glaze
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Arrange mozzarella and tomato slices on a platter, alternating between the two.
2. Tuck basil leaves between the slices.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Desserts to End Your Memorial Day Celebration on a Sweet Note
These desserts are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.
1. Strawberry Shortcake
This classic dessert is a summer favorite. The combination of sweet strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and whipped cream is irresistible.
**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
* 4 cups sliced strawberries
* 1/2 cup sugar
* Whipped cream, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in milk until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries and sugar. Let sit for 15 minutes, or until the strawberries release their juices.
8. To assemble, split a biscuit in half and top with strawberries and whipped cream.
9. Serve immediately.
2. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
These easy no-bake bars are perfect for a quick and satisfying dessert. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic for a reason.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1/2 cup melted butter
* 1 cup peanut butter
* 1 cup chocolate chips
* 1/4 cup butter
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, melt peanut butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
4. Pour the melted peanut butter over the graham cracker crust.
5. In another bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. Cut into bars and serve.
3. Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
This refreshing and healthy dessert is perfect for a light and refreshing end to your meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups assorted fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, melon, and grapes
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1 teaspoon lime zest
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine all the fruits.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, and lime zest.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and gently toss to combine.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Making the Most of Macy’s Early Memorial Day Weekend Deals
Remember to check Macy’s website and flyers for the latest deals on kitchen appliances, cookware, and bakeware. Upgrading your kitchen tools can make cooking these recipes even easier and more enjoyable. Keep an eye out for discounts on items like:
* **Grills:** Perfect for grilling chicken, salmon, and corn on the cob.
* **Slow cookers:** Ideal for making pulled pork sandwiches.
* **Baking dishes:** Essential for baking the spinach and artichoke dip and chocolate peanut butter bars.
* **Mixing bowls:** Needed for preparing the potato salad and strawberry shortcake.
* **Knives and cutting boards:** Crucial for chopping vegetables and fruits.
* **Tableware and serving dishes:** Showcase your delicious creations in style.
Final Thoughts
Memorial Day weekend is a time for relaxation, celebration, and taking advantage of amazing deals. By combining your shopping trip to Macy’s early Memorial Day Weekend sale with these delicious and easy-to-prepare recipes, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for yourself, your family, and your friends. So, grab your shopping list, fire up the grill, and get ready to celebrate savings and flavor!