A Memorial Day Weekend to Savor
Simple meals, shared moments, and a season just beginning
Dear friends,
As May winds toward its close and the unofficial start of summer arrives, I find myself leaning into the ease of a new season—early mornings, longer evenings, and the joy of gathering around the table, both indoors and outdoors.
Memorial Day is more than just the start of summer. It’s a time for gratitude, reflection, and togetherness. Whether you're honoring the day quietly or hosting a weekend meal with friends or family, I’ve gathered some ideas to help you make it delicious, meaningful, and simple.
Inspirational Reads
In my family, Memorial Day was set aside to celebrate, picnic together, and “decorate graves,” as my grandparents and great-grandparents would say, with copious amounts of blooming garden peonies and roses. The weekend holiday wasn’t complete without a healthy respect and remembrance of those who served our nation.
Before we get to the most delicious part of the weekend, here are some article ideas on how to spend the weekend:
What to Cook This Weekend
Here are a few favorite dishes from the 31Daily kitchen—easy to prep, great for sharing, and full of flavor that fits the season.
Grilled Sausages with Sauerkraut
Three ingredients, fifteen minutes. A crowd-pleasing, low-effort meal that works beautifully for casual cookouts.Ribs
Always a favorite for summer BBQs or holidays. Both of these recipes are favorites of 31Daily readers: Instant Pot Ribs or Grilled Foil-Wrapped Ribs.Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Set it and forget it—ideal if you’re hosting and want more time to relax.Easy Pasta Salad
A delicious make-ahead favorite that only gets better with time. Or, try this Macaroni Salad that was at my Mother’s table my entire life.Iconic La Scala Chopped Salad
A quick and easy chopped salad, with iconic and impressive origins, perfect for welcoming summer.Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Sweet, tangy, and unmistakably seasonal—this pie is a beautiful ending to any weekend meal. (See the recipe card at the bottom of this newsletter.)Easy Berry Trifle
Bright, fresh, and full of color—easy and impressive in minutes.S’mores Cookie Cups
An easy and fun way to welcome the summer season, no campfire needed.
Make It Easy, Make It Beautiful
A few tips I remind myself of when hosting or heading into a long weekend:
Keep the menu simple. Let seasonal produce and grilled favorites shine.
Use what you have—don’t stress over perfect settings.
Add something sweet (even if store-bought) and something refreshing (iced tea, lemonade, or your favorite spritz).
Most importantly, slow down and enjoy—that’s the part everyone remembers.
Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Recipe
Download this easy summer pie recipe for a simple, homemade treat!
Thank you, dear friend
Whether you’re traveling, hosting, or savoring a quiet weekend at home, I hope your Memorial Day is filled with moments that matter—good food, shared memories, and a little relaxation too!
As always, I’d love to know—what are you cooking or looking forward to this weekend? Hit reply or comment and share what’s happening At Your Table.
Stephanie
Hi! I have been a subscriber for years! (With another email address) and I just shared your strawberry tartes here last week! I would love to help you grow and vice versa - we should recommend each other’s substacks!