LONG WEEKEND MENU INSPO

Hi friends! It’s a long weekend, and we’re sure you’ll be flipping some burgers and firing up the grill before Summer’s end (pssssst… it’s not really the end). But if you need a little Labor Day Cookout Inspo, we’ve got you covered. We will be making all of the greatest hits of Summer… maybe even two desserts, because one is never enough!!

EK: It’s not a party without Texas Trash no matter what the season! This is also a great recipe to send to someone who wants to bring something to your party.

AU: And if you’re an extra kinda gal, how cute would this be as a party favor for guests to take home??

EK: Yes! I want to be invited to that party! I am making a big batch of my Summer Peach and Fresh Ginger Shrub to serve with Bourbon (or club soda) for a cocktail party on Sunday. The essence of summer peaches are captured in this easy stovetop shrub for a special cocktail mixer that can be made in advance.

AU: Get them peaches while you can!

EK: Chicken is America’s favorite protein to grill, and when you slather a grilled chicken with our Blackberry Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce, we understand why! Plus it’s a great choice for feeding—and pleasing—a crowd!

What goes with chicken??? Tater Salad, of course and you have your choice of my Grandmother’s classic mayo-based or Anthony’s lighter no-mayo extra-dilly salad with our Tater Salad Two Ways.

AU: I do believe that this is the last holiday of the year that allows potato salad, so don’t miss your chance, folks!

EK: And the last summer holiday party needs at least 2 desserts, and our choices are two Southern traditions—one that is soooo North Carolina and one that is soooo Texas!

AU: Yes! Strawberry Shortcake featuring NC State Fair Pound Cake and my grandmother’s Earthquake Cake (with a big ol’ scoop of vanilla ice cream!).

EK: Most of all, we hope that you all have a wonderful, food, friend and family filled long summer weekend…

If that didn’t whet your whistle…

APPS, DIPS, AND SIPS

We’ve got plenty of Cocktails to whet your guests’ whistles. Try a batch of Josh’s Signature Pomegranate Margarita or Elizabeth’s Boozy Peach-Mango Smoothies

Nibble on some Fire Crackers! Elizabeth’s Grilled Shrimp Cocktail or Grilled Asparagus with Romesco Sauce are show stoppers, and don’t forget about her Homemade Buttermilk Ricotta. Anthony’s Spicy Cashew “Queso” is perfect for dunking tortilla chips or Fritos. And his Green Goddess Dip is the perfect addition to your veggie platter. Or start the meal with some perfect Tomato Toasts or succulent Chimichurri Chicken Wings!

MAINS

How ‘bout some Barbecue Ribs, Perfect Burgers and Hot Dogs, Big Bold Steaks (no need to thaw!), even Pizzas, Skirt Steak Tacos, and Chicken any way you want it! We’ve also spilled the beans on how to make Shake Shack Burgers at home. Or keep it light with a Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken Paillard or Grilled Chicken with Peaches and Burrata.

SIDES

We’ve got recipes for the absolute BEST Baked Beans, Mac ‘n’ Cheese Perfection, a Summery Fresh Panzanella, two different Cole Slaws, Deviled Eggs, a Tropical Jicama Slaw, or Grilled Asparagus (with a Fire-Roasted Romesco Sauce). And don’t forget Elizabeth’s Cool as a Cucumber Salad (which is a perfect pairing with rich, beefy dishes!).

DESSERT

Of course there are crowd pleasers like Peach and/or Strawberry-Rhubarb Pies, Summer Berry Crostata and No-Bake S’mores, but don’t forget about our takes on Plum Tortes, Lemon Raspberry Loaf, Skillet Brownies (can also be made in a regular pan!), Raspberry Crunch Bars, and a festive Berry Dessert Pizza. Or make a big ol’ batch of Chocolate Chip Cookies and set out some ice cream for a DIY ice cream sandwich bar.