Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start to summer; it’s a time to honor those who have served and sacrificed for their country. In this spirit, Memorial Day appetizers are typically light, flavorful, and often incorporate an element of American tradition, perfect for gatherings that mark respect and remembrance.
When planning your Memorial Day menu, consider appetizers that are easy to share and complement the likely barbecue-centric main dishes. From mini burgers and patriotic-themed fruit skewers to classic deviled eggs and smoky, grilled vegetables, these starters set the tone for a thoughtful and enjoyable holiday gathering.
1. Shrimp Summer Rolls with Nuoc Cham
Image and recipe by Foodnetwork
Elevate your Memorial Day spread with these vibrant Shrimp Summer Rolls! Packed with fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and tender shrimp, these rolls are a refreshing and light appetizer. Pair them with a tangy nuoc cham dipping sauce for a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfectly chilled and bursting with flavor, these rolls are sure to impress your guests.
2. Sweet and Savory Ham and Swiss Sliders
Image and recipe by delish
These irresistible Memorial Day Ham and Swiss Sliders combine sweet Hawaiian rolls, gooey Swiss cheese, and savory ham, topped with caramelized onions and a delightful poppy-butter glaze. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these sliders are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering, offering a delicious blend of flavors in every bite!
3. Creamy Taco Dip Delight
Image and recipe by tasteofhome
Get your Memorial Day party started with this irresistible Creamy Taco Dip Delight! Whip together cream cheese, sour cream, French onion dip, and taco seasoning for a flavorful base. Pile on fresh lettuce, shredded cheddar, juicy tomatoes, and optional olives for a perfect burst of flavor. Serve with crispy tortilla chips, and watch it disappear in no time!
4. Grilled Corn and Cheese Fiesta Dip
Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman
Fire up your grill for this irresistible Grilled Corn and Cheese Fiesta Dip! Charred corn kernels mix with sautéed veggies, creamy cheese, and a hint of jalapeño heat, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This dip is the perfect warm, cheesy companion for your tortilla chips, making it an instant hit at any Memorial Day gathering. Dive in and let the flavors fiesta in your mouth!
5. Zesty BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Nachos
Image and recipe by goodhousekeeping
Add some zing to your Memorial Day with these Zesty BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Nachos! Shredded rotisserie chicken coated in barbecue sauce and layered on sweet potato chips with melted cheddar cheese make the perfect base. Top it off with tangy pickled jalapeños and onions, a refreshing lime-infused sour cream drizzle, and fresh cilantro for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and fun!
6. Mini Sundried Tomato Grilled Cheese Bites
Image and recipe by eatwell101
These mini grilled cheese bites are the perfect Memorial Day appetizer! Creamy, tangy sundried tomatoes mixed with smooth cream cheese, all tucked between lightly toasted bread slices and topped with melted parmesan. Quick to make and irresistibly delicious, these golden bites will be a hit at your holiday gathering!
7. Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs: A Tangy Twist on a Classic
Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman
With a creamy filling that features chopped dill pickles and a hint of mustard, these eggs are packed with flavor. Topped with sliced cornichons and a sprinkle of paprika, they’re as eye-catching as they are delicious. Perfect for adding a bit of tangy zest to your appetizer lineup!
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip Delight
Image and recipe by womenoftoday
Kick off your Memorial Day with this irresistible Spinach Artichoke Dip Delight! A perfect blend of creamy Neufchâtel cheese, tangy Greek yogurt, and savory spinach and artichokes, all baked to golden perfection. Serve it warm with your favorite crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to be a hit. Get ready for compliments galore!
“Did you know that using Greek yogurt as a base for your dips instead of sour cream or mayonnaise can cut down on calories without sacrificing creaminess? It’s a fantastic way to keep appetizers light and refreshing.”
9. Crockpot Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Image and recipe by foxeslovelemons
Turn your Memorial Day into a flavor fest with these succulent, slow-cooked baby back ribs! Rubbed with a zesty dry mix and slow-cooked to tender perfection, these ribs are finished on the grill or broiler for that irresistible char. Paired with a tangy barbecue sauce, they’re the perfect centerpiece for your holiday spread.
10. Zesty Mango Avocado Salsa
Image and recipe by delish
Brighten up your Memorial Day with this zesty Mango Avocado Salsa! Fresh mango and avocado blend with juicy grape tomatoes, spicy jalapeño, and tangy lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful appetizer. Perfectly seasoned with kosher salt and cilantro, this zesty Mango Avocado Salsa is a colorful, delicious dip to enjoy with tortilla chips. Dive into this vibrant mix and let the summer festivities begin!
11. Touchdown Ham and Cheese Football
Image and recipe by tasteofhome
Get ready to score big at your Memorial Day party with this festive Touchdown Ham and Cheese Football! This creamy, savory cheese ball combines deli ham, sharp cheddar, and smooth cream cheese, all shaped into a football and adorned with crunchy pecans and Swiss cheese laces. Serve with crackers and fresh veggies for a winning appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
12. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman
Spice up your Memorial Day with these irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers! Fresh jalapeños are halved, de-seeded, and generously filled with creamy, softened cream cheese. Each pepper is wrapped in a third slice of bacon and baked to crispy perfection. These poppers deliver the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and spicy in every bite, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser!
13. Sriracha Lime Shrimp Tacos with Mango-Avocado Salsa
Image and recipe by goodhousekeeping
Spice up your Memorial Day with these vibrant Sriracha Lime Shrimp Tacos! Marinated shrimp broiled to perfection are paired with a refreshing mango-avocado salsa, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This easy-to-make appetizer is a delightful mix of sweet and spicy, sure to impress your guests. Add a dash of extra sriracha for an extra kick!
14. Pepperoni Basil Tomato Puffs
Image and recipe by eatwell101
These irresistible Pepperoni Basil Tomato Puffs will help you kick off your Memorial day festivities! Flaky puff pastry boats hold juicy tomato slices, zesty pepperoni, and a sprinkle of parmesan, all crowned with fresh basil. Baked to golden perfection, these delightful bites are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear—make sure to double the batch!
“Did you know that presentation can drastically increase the appeal of simple appetizers? For Memorial Day, I often use star-shaped cookie cutters for cheeses, fruits, and even brownies to add a festive touch.”
15. Crispy Air Fryer Beef Taquitos
Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman
Get ready to elevate your Memorial Day spread with these crispy Air Fryer Beef Taquitos! Juicy shredded beef mixed with zesty salsa and green chiles, wrapped in corn tortillas, and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Serve these golden delights with guacamole, sour cream, and extra salsa for a fiesta in every bite. Perfect for entertaining and easy to make, these taquitos will be a hit at your celebration!
16. Zesty Avocado Mango Salsa
Image and recipe by womenoftoday
Looking for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing appetizer this Memorial Day? Try this vibrant Avocado Mango Salsa! It’s a perfect blend of creamy avocado, juicy mango, and a hint of heat from jalapeno and red bell pepper. Fresh lime juice and cilantro add a zesty twist, making it an irresistible dip for your favorite tortilla chips. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor!
17. Za’atar-Spiced Pita Chips
Image and recipe by themediterrareandish
Crispy, golden brown, and bursting with flavor, these Za’atar-Spiced Pita Chips are the perfect Memorial Day appetizer! Simply split pita bread, brush with Greek extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and za’atar. Bake until perfectly crunchy for a delightful, easy-to-make snack that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dip recipe.
“Did you know that by incorporating smoking chips made from fruit trees, like apple or cherry, you can enhance the flavor of your grilled appetizers? It’s a simple trick I use to make my Memorial Day BBQ stand out every year.”
18. Refreshing Blackberry Mint Tequila Cooler
Image and recipe by foxeslovelemons
Kick off your best Memorial Day with this Refreshing Blackberry Mint Tequila Cooler! Muddle fresh mint and lime juice, then stir in smooth tequila for a perfect base. Top it with ice-cold blackberry soda and garnish with mint, lime wedges, and juicy blackberries for a refreshing twist. It’s a vibrant and delicious way to toast to summer!
19. Spicy Buttermilk Grilled Chicken
Image and recipe by foxeslovelemons
Kick off your 55 Memorial Day with this irresistible Spicy Buttermilk Grilled Chicken! Marinated in a zesty blend of buttermilk, mustard, and sriracha, these drumsticks and thighs are grilled to perfection for a juicy, flavorful bite. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness. Perfect for your festive cookout!
20. Grilled Nectarines with Burrata and Honey
Image and recipe by tasteofhome
Fire up the grill for a fresh twist on a classic pairing! Juicy, grilled nectarines meet creamy burrata, drizzled with honey and garnished with mint and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. This easy, elegant appetizer is sure to impress your guests and elevate your Memorial Day gathering.
21. Zesty Eggplant Caponata
Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman
Bring a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your Memorial Day gathering with these Zesty Eggplant Caponata Bites. Roasted eggplant, red bell pepper, and a medley of savory ingredients simmer together to create a rich, tangy caponata. Serve this versatile dish hot, cold, or at room temperature atop toasted bread for an irresistible memorial day appetizers to kick that’s sure to impress!
22. Berries and Orange Zest Cobbler – Best Memorial Day Appetizer Ideas
Image and recipe by goodhousekeeping
Impress a crowd with a delightful Berries and Orange Zest Cobbler! This dessert combines juicy blueberries and blackberries with a hint of orange zest, topped with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumb. It’s baked to golden perfection and sprinkled with turbinado sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish. Simple yet irresistible, this cobbler is sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering!
23. Blueberry Swirl Semifreddo with Pecan Crumble
Image and recipe by goodhousekeeping
This creamy, no-bake dessert features layers of velvety semifreddo and tangy blueberry sauce, creating a perfect blend of sweet and tart. It’s easy to make ahead, ensuring a stress-free and delightful treat for your holiday gathering. Serve chilled slices with extra blueberry sauce and pecan crumble for an irresistible finish.
24. Baked Cheese Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms
Image and recipe by eatwell101
Indulge in these mouthwatering baked cheese pesto stuffed mushrooms, a perfect Memorial Day appetizer! Each Portobello mushroom cap is generously filled with a rich blend of five cheeses, savory garlic, and crispy panko, then baked to golden perfection atop a bed of tangy tomato sauce. Topped with a touch of pesto and a sprinkle of parsley, these mushrooms are bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests! Enjoy this deliciously cheesy delight straight from the skillet.
25. Balsamic Burrata Bliss
Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman
Elevate your Memorial Day appetizers with this vibrant Balsamic Burrata Bliss. Juicy multicolored grape tomatoes marinated in garlic-infused olive oil and balsamic glaze, combined with fresh arugula and creamy burrata, create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Topped with fresh basil, this appetizer is a show-stopping start to your festive celebration. Perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort!
26. Sizzlin’ Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings
Image and recipe by insanelygoodrecipes
Get ready for a Memorial Day hit with these Sizzlin’ Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings! Infused with a bold mix of hot pepper sauce, butter, and spices, these wings start off in the slow cooker and finish crispy in the oven. Perfectly sauced and irresistibly flavorful, they’re sure to be the star of your holiday spread. Get ready to wow your guests with this fiery favorite!
27. Zesty Herb-Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Image and recipe by downshiftology
Fire up your grill this Memorial Day with these irresistible Zesty Herb-Grilled Shrimp Skewers! Juicy shrimp marinated in a vibrant mix of olive oil, fresh cilantro, parsley, garlic, and a hint of lemon, then perfectly grilled to smoky perfection. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, these skewers will be the highlight of your holiday spread. Serve them hot with an extra drizzle of that mouthwatering marinade for an unforgettable appetizer!
28. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Perfection
Image and recipe by lilluna
Get ready for a Memorial Day feast with this slow cooker pulled pork recipe! Simply rub a 7-pound bone-in pork butt with liquid smoke and sea salt, and let it cook low and slow for 9-10 hours. Wake up or come back to tender, shreddable pork that’s ready to serve hot straight from the slow cooker. Perfect for effortless, mouthwatering sandwiches or as a flavorful addition to your festive spread!
29. Honey-Drizzled Prosciutto Arugula Bruschetta
Image and recipe by foodpluswords
Kick off your Memorial Day gathering with these mouthwatering prosciutto arugula bruschettas. Toasted baguette slices are slathered with creamy mascarpone, topped with savory prosciutto, and fresh arugula. A drizzle of honey adds the perfect touch of sweetness to this elegant, yet simple appetizer. Your guests will be coming back for more!
30. Zesty Grilled Fish Tacos with Citrus Carrot Slaw
Image and recipe by downshiftology
Fire up the grill and get ready for a flavor-packed fiesta with these Zesty Grilled Fish Tacos! Juicy cod filets seasoned to perfection and topped with a vibrant citrus carrot slaw make for a refreshing and light Memorial Day appetizer. Each bite is a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors, garnished with creamy avocado and a squeeze of lime. These tacos are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering!
FAQS
1. What are some quick and easy Memorial Day appetizers?
Quick and easy appetizers perfect for Memorial Day include deviled eggs, caprese skewers, watermelon-feta bites, and mini BLT cups. These can be prepared in advance and are perfect for a summer gathering.
2. What are some vegetarian options for Memorial Day appetizers?
Vegetarian options for appetizers include stuffed mushrooms, veggie pinwheels, guacamole and chips, and a classic bruschetta. These dishes are not only tasty but also cater to guests with dietary preferences.
3. Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?
Yes, many Memorial Day appetizers can be made ahead of time. Dips, skewers, and stuffed veggies often taste even better when their flavors meld in the fridge overnight. Just be sure to store them properly and keep them chilled.
4. What are some gluten-free appetizers for Memorial Day?
For gluten-free appetizers, consider options like shrimp cocktail, cucumber canapes, or a charcuterie board with an assortment of meats, cheeses, and gluten-free crackers. Always check labels to ensure ingredients are truly gluten-free.
5. How do I keep appetizers fresh for an outdoor gathering?
To keep appetizers fresh during an outdoor gathering, use coolers or ice trays to maintain a cool temperature. Cover dishes with foil or plastic wrap to protect them from insects and the sun.
6. Are there any kid-friendly appetizers that are also suitable for adults?
Kid-friendly appetizers that adults can enjoy too include mini sandwiches, chicken tenders, fruit skewers, and cheese quesadillas. These are universally appealing and easy to eat at a gathering.
7. What are some patriotic-themed appetizers?
Patriotic-themed appetizers include red, white, and blue fruit skewers, star-shaped mini sandwiches, American flag veggie trays, and layered dips in patriotic colors.
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