On Labor Day, the last thing we want to do is put in kitchen overtime. We’ve scoured the web (and our own recipe archives) for dishes that require low effort but yield major results. So kick back, relax, and read on for a few menu ideas to carry you into a flaking fantastic weekend:
A Better Backyard BarbecueAt this point in the summer, we’ve had our fill of burgers and dogs. Surprise guests with cheese-filled pasta salad, kebabs that pack a spicy, summery punch, and sweet cheesecake bites for dessert.
What to Serve:
• Tortellini & Walnut Pasta Salad is a mayo-free option that stands up to the heat
• Grilled corn on the cob and vegetable skewers
• Yogurt marinated chicken kebabs — make these in the morning, and then throw on the grill whenever guests arrive
• Do-ahead potato salad
• Mini cheesecakes — because bikini season isn’t *quite* over
Trip to The MediterraneanEase the pain of summer ending with a smorgasbord of Greek and Italian eats. Are you experiencing wanderlust?
What to Serve:
• Lemon Prosecco Punch
• Store bought hummus +phyllo chips sprinkled with Greek seasoning and cut vegetables
• Easy Caprese Cups — tomatoes are still in season, so use ‘em while you can
• A snack platter of cold cuts and creamy cheese (learn how to arrange it here)
• Athens® Spanakopita — Bake, serve, and enjoy. Doesn’t get much easier than that.
A Hawaiian LuauBring home the flavors of the Pacific with pineapple, mango and a whole bunch of pork. Just maybe skip the grass skirt and coconut bra. Or maybe not!
What to Serve:
• Piña coladas, mai tais, or a coconut rum punch start your party off right
• Spicy tuna poke and slow cooker Polynesian pork can be spooned into phyllo shells for a limbo-friendly snack
• Tropical salad with pineapple, bacon and toasted coconut
• Mango berry tartlets satisfy your sweet tooth without weighing you down
For even more no-labor recipes for your holiday weekend, search our “5 ingredients or less” tab, or check out our Pinterest page. Want recipes delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter!
