As the unofficial kick-off to summer, Memorial Day is all about sunshine, good company and, of course, great food. Here at the Jersey Shore, it’s also about salty breezes, beach bonfires and savoring the best flavors of the season. It’s a time to honor those who served while also gathering around grills and picnic tables to enjoy seaside favorites. If your Memorial Day menu needs a little inspiration, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with a spread that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that are guaranteed to make your holiday sizzle.
Dijon grilled chicken
Say goodbye to bland grilled chicken with this zesty upgrade. Dijon mustard brings tang and depth, while honey adds a subtle sweetness. Pair it with local Jersey corn on the cob for a true Shore-style feast.
Ingredients:
- Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- One-fourth cup Dijon mustard
- Two tablespoons honey
- Two tablespoons olive oil
- Two cloves garlic, minced
- One teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for six to seven minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite side dishes for a standout main course.
Classic cornbread
What’s a barbecue without cornbread? This recipe delivers golden-brown, buttery perfection with just the right amount of sweetness. For a local twist, consider adding a drizzle of honey from a nearby apiary.
Ingredients:
- One cup cornmeal
- One cup all-purpose flour
- One-fourth cup granulated sugar
- One tablespoon baking powder
- One-half teaspoon salt
- One cup buttermilk
- One-third cup unsalted butter, melted
- Two large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, melted butter and eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool slightly before slicing and serving. Pro tip: Serve warm with a dollop of honey butter.
Pink lemonade sangrias
Cheers to the perfect holiday drink! This refreshing cocktail is a crowd-pleaser with its blend of sweet, tart and fruity flavors. Add some fresh mint picked from your backyard garden or a local farmers market for a touch of Boardwalk charm.
Ingredients:
- One bottle of rosé wine
- Three cups pink lemonade
- One cup sparkling water or club soda
- One-half cup vodka (optional)
- One cup sliced strawberries
- One lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine rosé wine, pink lemonade, sparkling water and vodka (if using).
2. Add sliced strawberries and lemon to the mixture. Stir well.
3. Refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
4. Serve over ice, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Blueberry pie bars
End your meal on a sweet note with these portable pie bars. Made with fresh blueberries, these bars are a nod to the Shore’s bountiful berry farms.
Ingredients:
- One cup unsalted butter, softened
- One cup granulated sugar
- One-fourth teaspoon salt
- Two cups all-purpose flour
- One-half cup blueberry preserves
- One cup fresh blueberries
- One-half teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar, and salt until creamy. Gradually add the flour and mix until crumbly.
3. Press two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan to form the crust. Spread blueberry preserves evenly over the crust and sprinkle with fresh blueberries and lemon zest.
4. Crumble the remaining dough over the top.
5. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
With these recipes in your arsenal, your Memorial Day barbecue is sure to be a hit. Whether you’re firing up the grill or raising a glass of sangria, these dishes and drinks will keep your guests coming back for seconds — and maybe thirds. Here’s to a flavorful holiday filled with good eats, great memories and the unmistakable magic of summer down the shore.
