Happy Labor Day weekend! Since this is the last cookout holiday of the year, I’m planning to go all out and invite tons of friends over to our house. You guys know that hosting is my love language, and there’s nothing I appreciate more than spending time outdoors with loved ones and good food. Let’s have fun this week!! Don’t forget to slow down and soak it all in.
Labor Day Monday: Messy Burgers
We LOVE burgers, and what better day is there to cook up these messy (but delicious) burgers than Labor Day? They’re topped with melty cheese and sautéed onions and mushrooms, and they’re perfect to feed a crowd.
Hot tips
- Skip the storebought buns and make these simple brioche buns for extra-memorable burgers!
- For sides, consider a Caprese pasta salad and Caesar salad, grilled corn on the cob, and baked mac and cheese.
Pasta Tuesday: Baked Gnocchi
Pillowy potato pockets smothered in a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce… can you think of anything better? This 30-minute dinner is a family favorite!
Hot tips
- Learn how to make your own gnocchi here! I promise it makes a difference in the taste, and the process is so easy.
- Bulk up the protein by adding in cooked ground sausage or ground beef. Or, serve grilled chicken thighs on the side.
Fishy Wednesday: Salmon Chowder
One of my old co-workers introduced me to this salmon chowder, and my life has never been the same since. It’s so comforting and decadent that it tastes like a fancy restaurant dish, but it couldn’t be easier to make!
Hot tips
- My secret is using smoked cooked salmon from Trader Joe’s or Costco for the most amazing flavor and to save cooking time. If you can’t find it, make this 15-minute grilled salmon instead.
- I always stir fresh dill into the soup once it’s done, and I highly recommend serving a baguette or sourdough bread alongside it.
Flavor-Bomb Thursday: Greek Lemon Chicken
Chicken thighs are my favorite part of the bird, especially when they’re baked in the most amazing lemon, herb, and garlic marinade. This “let the oven do the work” recipe is perfect for all you busy moms out there (I got you)!
Hot tips
- Serve the chicken with eggplant salad or an orzo and feta salad to stick with the Greek theme. Or, take advantage of squash season and make roasted butternut squash on the side.
Kabob Friday: Pork Shashlik
As we enjoy the last few summer barbecues, featuring shashlik is a must. These pork kabobs are a huge part of my Slavic culture, and I love how tender and flavorful the meat turns out.
Hot tips
- Devour the shashlik with mashed potatoes or rice and a cabbage cucumber salad or Grandma’s tomato salad.
Snack of the Week: Sourdough Crackers
If you’re making sourdough bread this week, save the discard and whip up these four-ingredient crackers. They’re great as a snack or crushed up as a topping for the salmon chowder.
Dessert of the Week: Blackberry Popsicles
Summer may be winding down, but the hot days aren’t. These carrot, blackberry, and apricot popsicles are always a huge hit with kids, and there’s a sneaky serving of greens in there!
Click Here to Download the Menu and Shopping List!
No Comments