For most of us Memorial Day marks the “unofficial” start of summer which means just one thing:  It’s time to crank up the grill and get cookin’.  I love to grill.  I love all the delicious flavors created by grilling.  Food tastes so much better.  I’ve gathered a few of my favorite outdoor dining ideas from the blog including grilled meats and vegetables, salads and desserts.  I’ve got you covered.  I hope your holiday weekend is full of fun with family and bright sunshine.  Sounds perfect doesn’t it?  As for my Memorial Day, my daughter and I will be flying home from a fun weekend in New York City to celebrate her senior year (more on that later; weep, weep).  I’ll likely be too exhausted to do much more than crash, but I’ll be thinking of you as you enjoy your holiday fun!

Appetizers

Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Cheese Dip

Simple Nine-Layer Dip

Southwestern Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers

Salads

Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad

Italian Style Pasta Salad

Mixed Fresh Fruit Salad with Lime and Mint

Spring Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Lemon Basil Dressing

Black and White Bean Greek Salad

Grilled Meats

Greek Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce

Grilled Herb Chicken, Vegetables and Idaho Baby Gold Potato Kabobs

Grilled Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Coconut Cream Sauce

Grilled Talapia with Papaya Salsa

Steak and Vegetable Kabobs

Grilled Vegetables

Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Zucchini with Garlic Lemon Baste

Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Desserts

Carrot Cake Bites with Cream Cheese Frosting

Chocolate Mint Brownies

Fresh Berry Coconut Crisp

Monster Cookies