Our Best Labor Day Recipes to Serve This Weekend

Labor Day is just around the corner, and if you're anything like us, you're getting ready to chow down. After all, what could be a better way to celebrate the unofficial end of the season than by cracking a beer, throwing a few things on the grill, and enjoying the outdoors while it's still nice enough to stand around in shorts?

But before you prep your bets grilling recipes and fire up the grill, you'll have to finalize the menu! Here, we're sharing our very best Labor Day recipes in the hopes that you'll serve up something extra delicious this year. From delectable appetizers (like a watermelon-and-tomato salad!) to summery, fruit dessert recipes (extra slice of pie, anyone?), there's something here for just about everyone.

We've made sure to feature delicious Southern-style recipes that each and every guest is guaranteed to love, including a few solid vegetarian recipes, plus crowd-pleasing starters, tasty and oh-so-simple grilled barbecue side dishes, and filling mains too. And in addition to the more decadent options, we've also included some lighter fare here for the more health-conscious among you—plus easy, time-saving recipes that first-time grillers and pros alike are bound to appreciate. Browse through our picks, then get cooking!

Just look at those grill marks. Dreamy! Add your favorite toppings, and a platter of these sausages will win you "host of the year."

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SHOP SERVING TRAYS

We don't need to tell you to make this your go-to burger recipe. One look at your guests' faces after their first bite, and you'll get the idea all on your own.

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SHOP GRILLING TOOLS

Pickles and onions, tangy horseradish, or spicy chiles: Which fixin' will be your favorite? (Good news: You can try all three!)

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SHOP CHIMNEY STARTERS

The best part of this chicken and black bean nachos foil pack? It's totally portable, so you can tote your personal portion around at the party. All the better to mingle with your friends!

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SHOP GRILLING GLOVES

If you typically cook with your cast iron skillet over the stove or in the oven, prepare to be amazed at what happens when you place it over the grill. It prepares these beans in just 15 minutes.

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SHOP CAST IRON SKILLETS

Inspired by the flavors of Indian Tandoori cooking, serve these spiced chicken and onion kebabs rolled up in naan or flatbread drizzled with a cucumber and cilantro yogurt sauce.

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SHOP KEBAB SKEWERS

Extra-hungry guests will appreciate your including these hefty, bone-in rib eyes and cheesy baked potatoes on your Labor Day menu.

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SHOP STEAK PLATTERS

Herb-infused butter, plus a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, makes these mini corn cobs stand out from the rest of the side dishes on your table. They're just plain adorable to boot.

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SHOP SALAD SERVERS

Charred peppers are a special treat: The heat caramelizes the sugars in the pepper, making them taste uniquely rich. But don't sleep on this delicious, nutty, vinaigrette!

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SHOP GRILLS

For those craving something a little lighter, this salad's the way to go. It's loaded with fresh watermelon, onion, feta, and refreshing mint.

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SHOP WATERMELON CUTTERS

A charcoal grill adds a lot of extra flavor to this spiced crispy bean salad.

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SHOP GRILL SKILLETS

Even the kids will be eating their veggies thanks to this green bean platter. In fact, they might just even go in for seconds!

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Parmesan tots? Say no more—we're sold. These kid-friendly bites will please even the most discerning guests, but you may want to make a double batch—they're bound to go fast.

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SHOP BAKING SHEETS

No al fresco party is complete without a tall glass of lemonade. Here, Mason jars and fresh berries add to the charm.

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SHOP MASON JAR MUGS

We're not here to knock the merits of an old-fashioned potato salad; we're just here to upgrade it. This chive-topped version isn't just free from mayo—it's doubly flavorful too, thanks to Dijon mustard and fresh herbs.

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SHOP SALAD SERVERS

There just aren't many things more satisfying than dunking a crispy fried pickle into a cool bowl of ranch dip. We have a feeling your guests will agree.

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SHOP DEEP FRYING PANS

Labor Day's the perfect time to try out one of those summery side dish recipes you'll soon have to retire. Plus, with all the grilled meat and heavier dishes on the table, veggies will be a welcome addition.

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A fresh, crunchy salad is all but necessary during a Labor Day cookout. This one fills the bill nicely.

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SHOP SALAD SERVERS

We wouldn't think about hosting a Labor Day party without this quintessential summer dessert on the menu. Choose from three new varieties—Strawberry S'mores, Chocolate S'mores 2.0, or Peanut Butter S'mores—to make it your own.

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SHOP ROASTING STICKS

There's no better picnic dessert than a miniature pie, which requires no messy cutting or serving in order to feed your guests. Just don't forget the vanilla ice cream.

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SHOP BAKING SHEETS