Delicious Labor Day Recipes to Celebrate the End of Summer

NEW JERSEY - Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, a day to relax, gather with friends and family, and of course, enjoy some delicious food. As you plan your Labor Day celebration, consider these mouth-watering recipes that are sure to be a hit at your gathering. From classic BBQ dishes to refreshing salads and decadent desserts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Grilled BBQ Chicken Wings

Nothing says a summer cookout like BBQ chicken wings. These wings are marinated in a tangy, smoky sauce and grilled to perfection. Here’s how you can make them:

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Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken wings in the sauce mixture until fully coated.
4. Grill the wings for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
5. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

2. Classic Potato Salad

A good potato salad is a staple at any outdoor gathering. This classic recipe is creamy, tangy, and perfect as a side dish for your Labor Day feast.

Ingredients:

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• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, celery, red onion, and dill pickles.
3. Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and gently mix until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with paprika.
5. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

3. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Corn on the cob is a must-have for any summer barbecue. This recipe adds a flavorful twist with herb-infused butter.

Ingredients:

• 6 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with parsley, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
4. Remove from the grill and immediately brush with the herb butter while still hot.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

4. Watermelon Feta Salad

This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the saltiness of feta cheese, making it a perfect palate cleanser and a cool treat for a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, and mint leaves.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled.

5. Grilled Vegetable Skewers

These colorful skewers are not only healthy but also packed with flavor. They make a great addition to any Labor Day menu, especially for vegetarians.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating as you go.
4. Brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture.
5. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot off the grill.

6. S’mores Dip

For a fun and easy dessert, try this S’mores dip. It’s a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of classic campfire s’mores without the need for an open flame.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 2 graham crackers, crushed
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• Graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small ovenproof skillet or baking dish, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chocolate chips and marshmallows, spreading them evenly.
4. Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until the marshmallows are golden and bubbly.
5. Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top.
6. Serve immediately with graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit for dipping.

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