31 Unexpected Memorial Day Recipes That Actually Work

Memorial Day is all about good food, great company, and kicking off summer in style. But sometimes, the usual burgers and hot dogs can feel a little predictable. That’s why I love shaking things up with unexpected recipes that not only surprise my guests but actually taste amazing. Whether you’re looking to impress, experiment, or just break free from the same old menu, these creative dishes will bring something fresh to your holiday spread.

Glass dish with creamy fruit salad containing colorful pieces of fruit and marshmallows, placed on a blue napkin with a spoon beside it. — Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

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Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Close-up of macaroni salad with elbow pasta, peas, cheddar cheese cubes, red onion, and a creamy dressing. — Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This pasta salad combines familiar flavors in a way that feels fresh for a holiday spread. It can be prepared ahead of time and served cold, making it convenient for outdoor gatherings. The combination of bacon and ranch dressing appeals to a wide range of tastes. It's a reliable option that adds variety to the usual picnic fare.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

3-Ingredient Banana Pudding

Slice of banana pudding topped with whipped cream on a white plate. — 3-Ingredient Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

With just three ingredients, this dessert is quick to assemble and doesn't require baking. It's a sweet option that can be made in advance and stored until serving time. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. It's an easy addition that brings a touch of nostalgia to the table.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Banana Pudding

Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes with Sprinkle Filling

A strawberry cupcake with pink frosting and a sliced strawberry on top, in a pink wrapper. Two similar cupcakes are in the background. — Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes with Sprinkle Filling. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These cupcakes offer a fun twist with their crunchy topping and hidden sprinkle filling. They're individually portioned, which makes them convenient for serving at gatherings. The combination of textures adds interest without complicating the preparation. They're a playful dessert that stands out among traditional options.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes with Sprinkle Filling

Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

A fork holds a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomato, walnuts, and crumbled cheese over a bowl of salad in the background. — Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This salad pairs fresh spinach with sweet strawberries and crunchy walnuts for a mix of textures. It's a light side dish that complements heavier mains typically found at cookouts. The ingredients can be prepped ahead, saving time on the day of the event. It's a refreshing choice that adds color and variety to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad

Collard Green Salad with Chicken

A bowl of fresh salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and chunks of tuna. A lime wedge and cherry tomatoes are in the background. — Collard Green Salad with Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Combining hearty greens with protein-rich chicken, this salad serves as a substantial side or light main dish. It holds up well over time, making it suitable for events where food sits out. The flavors are straightforward, appealing to a broad audience. It's a practical option that brings something different to the table.
Get the Recipe: Collard Green Salad with Chicken

Crab Meat Rangoon

A plate of round, golden-brown buns with one cut open to show a filling mixed with green herbs. Green onions garnish the plate in the background. — Crab Meat Rangoon. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These bite-sized appetizers offer a creamy filling encased in a crispy exterior. They're easy to prepare in batches and can be served warm or at room temperature. The familiar flavors make them a crowd-pleaser without being overly common. They're a convenient finger food that adds variety to the appetizer selection.
Get the Recipe: Crab Meat Rangoon

Beer Cheese

A pretzel bite is being dipped into a bowl of cheese sauce. — Beer Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This dip combines the richness of cheese with the subtle flavor of beer for a savory accompaniment to breads or pretzels. It's quick to prepare and can be kept warm in a slow cooker during the event. The recipe uses common ingredients, making it accessible for most home cooks. It's a hearty addition that complements other party foods.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese

Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

A glass bowl filled with a creamy fruit salad, featuring colorful fruits and marshmallows, placed on a blue cloth. — Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This sweet salad blends pasta with fruit cocktail and a creamy dressing for a unique side dish. It's best served cold, making it suitable for warm-weather gatherings. The dish can be made ahead of time, reducing day-of preparation. It's an unexpected option that adds a touch of sweetness to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings

Three pieces of seasoned and grilled chicken are served on a white plate with sprigs of leafy green garnish. — Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These wings are seasoned with Cajun spices and cooked in an air fryer for a crispy finish without deep frying. They cook quickly and can be made in batches to serve a crowd. The bold flavors offer a change from traditional barbecue wings. They're a convenient option that brings a bit of spice to the party.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings

Strawberry Poke Cake

This cake features a moist base infused with strawberry flavor and topped with whipped cream. It's easy to prepare using boxed cake mix and gelatin, saving time and effort. The dessert can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator until serving. It's a colorful and sweet addition that fits well with the festive atmosphere.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Poke Cake

BLT Dip

A hand holding a loaded potato skin topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a slice of tomato. — BLT Dip. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This dip captures the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich in a creamy, shareable form. It's served cold, making it easy to prepare in advance and store until needed. The combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato appeals to a wide range of guests. It's a simple yet flavorful option that complements chips or bread slices.
Get the Recipe: BLT Dip

Mango Salsa

A white bowl filled with diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper salsa is surrounded by tortilla chips. — Mango Salsa. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Combining ripe mangoes with onions and peppers, this salsa offers a sweet and spicy flavor profile. It's quick to assemble and doesn't require cooking, making it convenient for busy hosts. The freshness of the ingredients adds a light contrast to heavier dishes. It's a versatile condiment that pairs well with grilled meats or chips.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salsa

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans tossed with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a fork, on a white surface. — Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad mixes crisp green beans with juicy tomatoes for a refreshing side dish. It's easy to prepare and can be served cold or at room temperature. The simple dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. It's a straightforward option that adds a healthy touch to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Apple Pie Cookies

These cookies encapsulate the flavors of apple pie in a portable, hand-held form. They're made with common pantry ingredients and can be baked ahead of time. The individual portions make them convenient for serving at gatherings. They're a familiar dessert presented in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cookies

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

A salad with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese. — Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad combines various berries with a homemade blueberry dressing for a sweet and tangy side. It's quick to assemble and adds vibrant color to the table. The natural sweetness of the fruit makes it appealing to both kids and adults. It's a light option that complements heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Red Skin Potato Salad

Bowl of potato salad garnished with fresh herbs and bacon on a white background. — Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Featuring tender red potatoes and a creamy dressing, this salad is a classic side dish. It's best made ahead to allow flavors to meld, saving time on the event day. The recipe uses straightforward ingredients, making it accessible for most cooks. It's a dependable choice that pairs well with grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Cream Cheese Danish

A pastry with berry filling and white drizzle on a white plate is accompanied by strawberry slices. A red and white checkered cloth, blueberries, and a bowl of strawberries are nearby. — Cream Cheese Danish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pastries offer a creamy filling encased in flaky dough, suitable for a sweet addition to the meal. They can be prepared ahead and served at room temperature, easing day-of responsibilities. The individual servings make them convenient for guests to enjoy. They're a simple yet elegant dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Danish

Red White and Blue Salad

A bowl of creamy berry salad topped with fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries. A gold spoon is placed beside the bowl, and there is a small dish of blueberries in the background. — Red White and Blue Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Combining strawberries, blueberries, and bananas, this fruit salad adds a patriotic touch to the table. It's easy to prepare and can be made shortly before serving. The natural sweetness of the fruit makes it a refreshing choice for warm days. It's a festive addition that aligns with the holiday theme.
Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Salad

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These skewers feature shrimp grilled to perfection, offering a light alternative to heavier meats. They cook quickly and can be seasoned in various ways to suit different tastes. The skewers are easy to handle, making them convenient for guests. They're a versatile option that adds variety to the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Close-up of a hand holding a seasoned chicken wing garnished with fresh herbs, with more pieces on a plate in the background. — Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wings are seasoned with lemon pepper for a tangy flavor and baked until crispy. They can be prepared in advance and reheated as needed, simplifying event logistics. The seasoning offers a lighter alternative to traditional barbecue sauces. They're a flavorful choice that complements a range of side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers. — Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These kabobs feature chunks of chicken cooked in an air fryer for a quick and easy main dish. They can be marinated ahead of time, reducing prep work on the day of the event. The skewers are convenient for serving and eating at gatherings. They're a practical option that brings something different to the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

This salad combines pasta with shrimp and a creamy dressing for a hearty side dish. It's best served cold, making it suitable for outdoor events. The ingredients can be prepared ahead, saving time on the day of the gathering. It's a substantial option that adds variety to the menu.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Buffalo Chicken Dip

This dip blends shredded chicken with a spicy sauce and creamy base for a flavorful appetizer. It can be made ahead and kept warm in a slow cooker during the event. The bold flavors make it a popular choice among guests. It's a convenient option that pairs well with chips or bread.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Combining various fruits with marshmallows and a creamy dressing, this salad offers a sweet side dish. It's easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time. The light texture makes it a refreshing choice for warm-weather gatherings. It's a nostalgic option that appeals to a wide audience.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Pasta chips in a white bowl. — Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy pasta chips are a unique snack that's easy to prepare using an air fryer. They can be seasoned in various ways to suit different preferences. The chips are a crunchy alternative to traditional snacks. They're a novel addition that adds interest to the appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

This salad combines crunchy broccoli with crispy bacon and a creamy dressing for a flavorful side. It's best made ahead to allow the flavors to meld, saving time on the event day. The ingredients are straightforward and familiar. It's a reliable option that complements a variety of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Turkey Roll Ups

These roll-ups feature turkey slices wrapped around various fillings for a convenient finger food. They're easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time. The individual portions make them suitable for serving at gatherings. They're a practical choice that adds variety to the appetizer selection.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Easy Radish Salad

A plate of radish salad with diced celery and a creamy dressing, accompanied by a glass of water and salt and pepper shakers. — Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad combines crisp radishes with a simple dressing for a refreshing side dish. It's quick to prepare and adds a pop of color to the table. The light flavors make it a good complement to heavier mains. It's a straightforward option that brings a fresh element to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of colorful broccoli slaw with shredded purple cabbage and carrots topped with dried cranberries and pine nuts, next to a red-checked napkin. — Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slaw features shredded broccoli stems mixed with a tangy dressing for a crunchy side dish. It's easy to prepare and holds up well over time, making it suitable for events where food sits out. The salad adds a different texture to the spread. It's a simple option that offers a change from traditional coleslaw.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Seafood Pasta Salad

Combining pasta with various seafood, this salad offers a hearty side dish with a coastal flair. It's best served cold, making it appropriate for warm-weather gatherings. The dish can be prepared ahead, reducing day-of responsibilities. It's a substantial option that adds variety to the menu.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley. — Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken thighs are marinated and grilled for a flavorful main dish. They cook relatively quickly and can be prepared in batches to serve a crowd. The boneless cuts make them easy to handle and eat. They're a dependable choice that brings a classic barbecue flavor to the event.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs