The Late-Summer Cookout Menu You’ll Actually Use

Labor Day might be the “unofficial” end of summer, but it’s also the perfect excuse for one more backyard cookout. Forget the overcomplicated menus—this spread is simple, crowd-pleasing, and won’t keep you stuck in the kitchen all day.

Main Dish: Grilled Chicken Skewers

Marinate chicken chunks in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. Thread onto skewers with peppers and onions. Quick to grill, easy to eat, and always a hit.

Side 1: Watermelon Feta Salad

A refreshing combo of watermelon cubes, feta crumbles, mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s light, juicy, and screams summer.

Side 2: Street Corn Off the Cob

Charred corn tossed with mayo, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder. All the flavors of Mexican street corn, no messy cobs required.

Side 3: Pasta Salad (Trin’s Go-To)

Rotini + Italian dressing + chopped veggies + cubes of cheese = make-ahead magic. Bonus: it tastes better after sitting overnight.

Dessert: S’mores Dip

Layer chocolate chips and marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet, bake until gooey, and serve with graham crackers. Easier than a fire pit, but just as fun.

Drink: Sparkling Lemonade Pitcher

Mix lemonade with sparkling water and add frozen berries as ice cubes. Pretty, refreshing, and kid-friendly (spike with vodka for adults!).

There you go—the cookout menu you’ll actually use. Nothing fussy, just fresh, simple recipes that bring everyone together around the table one last time this summer.

What’s your must-have cookout dish? Drop it in the comments so we can all swap ideas!