Happy Memorial Day Weekend! 🇺🇸

As we honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, let's also celebrate the unofficial start of summer with this beautiful warm weather we're blessed to have in Southern California. This Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to fire up the grill, gather with friends and family, and enjoy some delicious food together.

Whether you're cooking these dishes at home or seeking inspiration for what to order from your favorite local restaurants, here are some fantastic recipe ideas that capture the spirit of outdoor entertaining and the fresh, vibrant flavors that make Southern California cuisine so special.

Grilled & BBQ Favorites

California-Style Fish Tacos - Simple, satisfying fresh fish tacos from the West Coast combine fried fish, sliced cabbage, and a creamy white sauce in a corn tortilla. These are quintessentially SoCal and perfect for outdoor entertaining. Get the recipe here

BBQ Chicken Wings - The secret is cooking them both before and after they're sauced so they're equally crispy and sticky-sweet. Get the recipe here

Firecracker Burgers - Beef patties, chili-jam brushed thick-cut bacon, cheddar cheese, a slightly spicy Korean-inspired aioli, and a umami-rich dressing, all combine for one powerhouse burger worthy of Memorial Day celebrations. Get the recipe here

Fresh & Light California-Style Dishes

Ceviche - The most simple and fresh blend of lime-marinated white fish, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, and cilantro - perfect for hot SoCal weather! Get the recipe here

Watermelon Caprese Salad - During the summer, we can't get enough of simple, refreshing salads that put fresh fruit at the forefront. Get the recipe here

Grilled Corn with Honey-Lime Butter - Nothing says summertime like the smell of corn on the grill... juicy ears of corn get some char on a hot grill, then get brushed with an irresistible honey-lime butter. Get the recipe here

Perfect Side Dishes

Italian Pasta Salad - In our opinion, pasta salad is a Memorial Day must. Get the recipe here

Summer Squash Sheet Pan Tacos - These vegetarian tacos have layers of tender summer squash, whipped garlicky hummus, smoky tahini sauce, and za'atar pickled shallots. Get the recipe here

Tangy Charred Coleslaw - Throwing cabbage on the grill before tossing with a sweet and tangy rice vinegar and brown sugar vinaigrette adds extra flavor to this vegan side dish. Get the recipe here

Refreshing Drinks

Agua Fresca - These refreshing non-alcoholic sippers are easy to modify depending on what fruits you have on hand. A few of our favorites include honeydew, strawberries, watermelon, and cantaloupe. Get the recipe here

Skinny Margaritas and Watermelon Tequila Punch - The most summer-y cocktail there is! Watermelon Tequila Punch with plenty of lime and mint to make it extra refreshing! Get the recipes here

Creative Appetizers

Grilled White Pizza - White pizza is basically pizza without the red sauce. Instead use a combination of olive oil and garlic and then top it with copious amounts of cheese. Get the recipe here

Melon Caprese Skewers - These Italian inspired Melon Caprese Skewers are the perfect bite-sized summer appetizer or snack! Get the recipe here

These recipes embrace Southern California's love for fresh, citrusy flavors, grilled foods, and outdoor dining. The fish tacos and ceviche are especially perfect since they highlight the region's coastal influence and Mexican culinary heritage. Enjoy this beautiful weekend with loved ones!