Memorial Day is a time to gather, laugh, remember, and eat—preferably outside, under a flag, with a breeze and a cold drink in hand. Whether you're headed to the lake, hosting in the backyard, or showing up to a friend's cookout, this easy Memorial Day menu keeps things simple, festive, and full of flavor. Bonus? Most of it can be prepped ahead of time so you can spend more time enjoying friends and family and less time stressing.

Here’s what I’ll be serving (or bringing) to our lake day celebration:

Main Course

  • Grilled Burgers & Hot Dogs
    • Keep it classic with a burger and hot dog station. Set out buns, cheese, ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, lettuce, and pickles.
    • Optional: Add veggie burgers or bratwursts for variety.

Side Dishes

  • Red, White & Blueberry Fruit Salad
    • Strawberries, blueberries, bananas (or mini marshmallows), tossed with a little lime juice and honey.
  • Easy Pasta Salad
    • Cooked rotini, cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, black olives, and Italian dressing. Chill and serve cold.
  • Baked Beans (Dump & Heat Style)
    • Canned baked beans + a little brown sugar and mustard, heated up in a foil pan or crockpot.
  • Chips & Dips
    • A couple of bags of chips with store-bought salsa and guacamole or ranch dip – my family mixes ranch dip mix with cream cheese and a little milk (so good). .

Dessert

  • Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches
    • Buy vanilla ice cream sandwiches and roll the sides in red, white, and blue sprinkles. Freeze until serving!
  • Watermelon Wedges
    • Cool, juicy, and summer-perfect. Bonus: They double as a hydration snack!

Drinks

  • Lemonade & Sweet Tea Station
    • Serve in jugs with optional fruit slices. Toss in some sparkling water for a fun twist.
    • Adult option: Add vodka or a splash of bourbon to your cup, if that’s your crowd.

💡Tips to Keep it Easy:

  • Use disposable or compostable plates, napkins, and utensils.
  • Bring a cooler for drinks + an extra for food if you're picnicking away from home.
  • Set up a trash bag station or tote for quick cleanup.

Whatever your plans are, I hope this menu helps you enjoy a beautiful day filled with laughter, gratitude, and good food. And if, in between bites of watermelon and chasing your dog away from the hot dogs, you start dreaming about a new backyard or a lakeside home—call me. I’d love to help you find your next perfect picnic spot. 🏡

Wishing you a happy, safe, and meaningful Memorial Day!
For all your real estate needs—get Jacque!

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