Memorial Day Feast: Delicious Recipes & Hidden Amazon Outlet Deals

Memorial Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family for a delicious cookout. While you’re planning your menu, don’t forget to check out Amazon’s hidden outlet for some amazing deals on grilling essentials, kitchen gadgets, and outdoor furniture. This year, make your Memorial Day celebration unforgettable with fantastic food and fantastic savings!

This article provides both delectable recipes perfect for your Memorial Day cookout, and also guides you to find the best hidden Amazon outlet deals to equip you for the long holiday weekend. Let’s dive in!

## Part 1: Mouthwatering Memorial Day Recipes

Here’s a curated collection of recipes that are sure to be a hit at your Memorial Day barbecue. These recipes are easy to follow, require minimal ingredients, and are guaranteed to impress your guests.

### 1. Grilled BBQ Chicken

A classic for a reason, grilled BBQ chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful marinade that will make your chicken incredibly juicy and tender.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F).
4. **Grill the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
5. **Baste with BBQ Sauce:** During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with additional BBQ sauce for a glazed finish.
6. **Rest and Serve:** Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

**Tips and Variations:**

* For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
* Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful and budget-friendly option.
* Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, and potato salad.

### 2. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Elevate your corn on the cob with a simple herb butter that adds a burst of flavor. This recipe is incredibly easy and requires minimal effort.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 ears of corn, husks removed
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme, or a combination)
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Herb Butter:** In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F).
3. **Grill the Corn:** Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and tender.
4. **Butter the Corn:** Remove the corn from the grill and immediately spread the herb butter over the warm corn on the cob. Serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Soak the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent the husks from burning (if you’re grilling with the husks on).
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter for a spicy kick.
* Use different herbs based on your preference, such as rosemary or cilantro.

### 3. Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint

This refreshing salad is the perfect way to beat the heat on a hot Memorial Day. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint is a delightful and unexpected flavor combination.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 cups cubed watermelon
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
* 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately or chill for later.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add thinly sliced red onion for a bit of sharpness.
* Use balsamic glaze instead of lime juice for a sweeter and more complex flavor.
* Garnish with toasted almonds or pecans for added crunch.

### 4. Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Cream

A simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for a summer cookout. The grilled pineapple becomes caramelized and sweet, while the coconut cream adds a touch of richness and tropical flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1/2 cup coconut cream
* 2 tablespoons shredded coconut, toasted
* Optional: honey or maple syrup for drizzling

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pineapple:** Brush the pineapple rings with melted butter.
2. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F).
3. **Grill the Pineapple:** Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are lightly charred and caramelized.
4. **Serve:** Remove the pineapple from the grill and place them on plates. Top with coconut cream and toasted shredded coconut. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use canned pineapple rings if fresh pineapple is not available.
* Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
* Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more decadent dessert.

### 5. Classic Potato Salad

No Memorial Day cookout is complete without a classic potato salad. This recipe uses simple ingredients and delivers a creamy, tangy, and satisfying side dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup yellow mustard
* 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
* 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
* 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Paprika for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Potatoes:** Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and sweet pickle relish.
3. **Assemble the Salad:** Add the cooked potatoes, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir to combine.
4. **Season and Chill:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Garnish with paprika, if desired, and serve chilled.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use different types of potatoes, such as red potatoes or russet potatoes.
* Add bacon bits or chopped ham for a smoky flavor.
* Include other vegetables, such as bell peppers or green onions.
* For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

## Part 2: Unearthing Amazon’s Hidden Outlet Deals

Now that you have your Memorial Day menu planned, it’s time to find the best deals on everything you need to make your cookout a success. Amazon’s hidden outlet is a treasure trove of discounted items, but it can be tricky to navigate. Here’s how to find the best deals and what to look for:

### What is Amazon’s Hidden Outlet?

Amazon’s hidden outlet is essentially a clearance section where the online retail giant sells overstocked items, discontinued products, and open-box returns at significantly reduced prices. These items are often heavily discounted, making it a great place to find bargains on everything from kitchen appliances to outdoor furniture.

### How to Find Amazon’s Hidden Outlet:

Finding Amazon’s hidden outlet can be a bit challenging, as it’s not prominently displayed on the main website. Here are a few ways to access it:

1. **Direct Link (May Vary):** The most straightforward way is to use a direct link to the outlet page. However, these links can sometimes change. A general search on Google for “Amazon Outlet” usually provides a working link. Bookmark this page once you find it.
2. **Amazon Search:** Try searching for specific categories of products followed by the word “outlet.” For example, “kitchen appliances outlet” or “outdoor furniture outlet.” This may lead you to a relevant section within the outlet.
3. **Check Amazon’s Deals Pages:** Keep an eye on Amazon’s “Today’s Deals” and “Lightning Deals” pages. Sometimes, outlet items are featured in these sections.
4. **Use Browser Extensions:** Certain browser extensions, such as those that highlight price drops or find deals, may also help you discover outlet items.

### What to Look For in Amazon’s Hidden Outlet for Memorial Day:

For Memorial Day, focus on these categories within the outlet:

* **Grills and Grilling Accessories:** Look for deals on charcoal grills, gas grills, smokers, grilling tools, and BBQ accessories.
* **Outdoor Furniture:** Find discounts on patio sets, chairs, tables, umbrellas, and outdoor cushions to create a comfortable and inviting outdoor space.
* **Kitchen Appliances:** Upgrade your kitchen with discounted blenders, food processors, mixers, and other appliances to make meal prep easier.
* **Cookware and Bakeware:** Find deals on pots, pans, baking sheets, and other cookware essentials for all your Memorial Day cooking needs.
* **Coolers and Drinkware:** Keep your drinks cold with discounted coolers, insulated tumblers, and pitchers.
* **Outdoor Games and Activities:** Look for deals on lawn games, water toys, and other outdoor activities to keep your guests entertained.
* **Home and Garden Decor:** Find discounts on outdoor lighting, planters, and other decorative items to enhance your outdoor space.

### Tips for Shopping in Amazon’s Hidden Outlet:

* **Be Prepared to Act Fast:** Outlet deals often sell out quickly, so be ready to make a purchase when you find something you want.
* **Check the Condition:** Pay close attention to the product’s condition. Outlet items may be new, open-box, or refurbished. Read the description carefully to understand the item’s condition and warranty (if any).
* **Read Reviews:** Before making a purchase, read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the product’s quality and performance.
* **Compare Prices:** Even though outlet items are discounted, it’s still a good idea to compare prices with other retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
* **Check the Return Policy:** Make sure you understand Amazon’s return policy for outlet items before making a purchase. Some items may have limited or no returns.
* **Filter and Sort:** Use Amazon’s filter and sort options to narrow down your search and find the items you’re most interested in. You can filter by price, condition, brand, and other factors.
* **Set Up Price Alerts:** Use price tracking tools to monitor the prices of items you’re interested in and receive notifications when the price drops.

### Example Hidden Outlet Finds:

To give you an idea of the types of deals you can find, here are some hypothetical examples (actual availability may vary):

* **Grill:** A popular gas grill, originally priced at $300, discounted to $200.
* **Patio Set:** A four-piece patio set, originally priced at $500, discounted to $350.
* **Blender:** A high-performance blender, originally priced at $150, discounted to $90.
* **Cooler:** A large capacity cooler, originally priced at $80, discounted to $50.

### Important Considerations Before Purchasing

Before you click that “Add to Cart” button, keep these points in mind:

* **Warranty:** Check if the item comes with a warranty, and understand the terms and conditions.
* **Returns:** Be aware of the return policy for outlet items, as it may differ from Amazon’s standard return policy.
* **Shipping Costs:** Factor in shipping costs when comparing prices.
* **Product Details:** Scrutinize the product description, paying close attention to details about the item’s condition and any potential flaws.

### Beyond Amazon: Other Memorial Day Deals

While Amazon’s hidden outlet is a great place to start, don’t limit yourself to just one retailer. Check out other major retailers like Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Lowe’s for their Memorial Day sales events. These stores often offer competitive discounts on similar items.

## Part 3: Making the Most of Your Memorial Day Celebration

With delicious recipes and amazing deals secured, here are some additional tips for making your Memorial Day celebration truly memorable:

* **Plan Ahead:** Don’t wait until the last minute to start planning. Make a list of everything you need, from food and drinks to decorations and activities.
* **Set the Mood:** Create a festive atmosphere with decorations, music, and lighting. Use patriotic colors like red, white, and blue to decorate your outdoor space.
* **Involve Your Guests:** Ask your guests to bring a dish to share or help with the grilling or setup. This will make them feel more involved and take some of the pressure off you.
* **Keep it Simple:** Don’t try to do too much. Focus on creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for your guests.
* **Remember the Meaning:** Take a moment to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day and honor the men and women who have served our country.
* **Prioritize Safety:** If you’re grilling, be sure to follow proper safety precautions. Keep children and pets away from the grill, and never leave it unattended.
* **Provide Shade:** Ensure your guests have access to shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Umbrellas, awnings, or trees can provide much-needed relief from the sun.
* **Offer Activities:** Have some fun activities planned to keep your guests entertained. Lawn games, board games, or even a simple playlist of music can add to the festive atmosphere.

## Conclusion

With a little planning and preparation, you can throw a Memorial Day cookout that’s both delicious and affordable. Use the recipes and tips in this article to create a menu that your guests will love, and take advantage of Amazon’s hidden outlet deals to save money on grilling essentials and outdoor furniture. Remember to celebrate responsibly and take a moment to honor the true meaning of Memorial Day.

By combining culinary creativity with smart shopping, you can make this Memorial Day a truly unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones. Happy cooking and happy shopping!