Sunny barbecues in the backyard – my happy place! And Memorial Day is the quintessential “barbecue in the backyard” day.

It’s almost upon us, so let’s get our ducks in a row and plan some amazing meals out on the patio with these delicious Memorial Day recipes!

Steaks are first up on my list. But the long, leisurely weekend gives us a bit more time to explore something new so why not go for this Memorial Day recipe for Grilled Kansas City Strip Steak and Blue Cheese Mashers? While you’re grilling steak, get your helpers to dive into making the mashers. Everybody wins!

For us, burgers are ALWAYS on the sunny holiday menu. This time, we’re going to mix it up a bit with this Tropical Burger recipe. Pineapple and mango chutney will make you feel like you’re in the tropics!

It’s a long weekend, right?

Serve it with this Fresh Cilantro Picnic Salad – perfect for a group of hungry holidaymakers!

Enjoy good food and relaxation this Memorial Day weekend – I know I will!

What are all holidays made for?

Food! That’s what!

And this Labor Day is no different. We’ve got one last summerish hurrah coming up and I intend to do it up right. I know you do, too!

Let’s get in those Labor Day favorites before the crispness of fall sets in…

We’ll start with burgers. I mean, heck, it’s not Labor Day without burgers!

Steaks are a must as well. Is the grill going? Then steaks must be on it!

Throw in some ribs, too. They’re a traditional Labor Day favorite at our house. We’re outside so it’s okay to lick our fingers, right?

Now sides are very important at this soiree. There are plenty of side dish recipes to choose from.

These delicious deviled eggs must make an appearance. Everyone will literally eat them up! Get the recipe here.

BBQ baked beans? Yes, please! These go with everything – and they’ll go fast. Try this fantastic recipe.

Feeding a big crowd? This potato salad recipe will please ’em all. And check out more recipes here whether you want to go fancy or simple and traditional. There’s something right up your alley!

Have a great Labor Day feast, my friends! And send summer out with a bang!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

It’s time to start thinking about Easter menus. And, for me, I stress less if I can make most things ahead of time.

So let’s stress less, shall we?

There are so many menu choices that we can prepare beforehand, and then heat or simply serve when mealtime comes.

For me, a ham is a must-have. We don’t sit down to eat a ham often so it’s usually a holiday dinner for us. Luckily, it’s a heat and serve type entree. And that makes me happy.

The sides and dessert? Well, that’s a different story.

Click here to see a beautiful make-ahead Easter menu including glazed carrots with pistachios (beautifully displayed above), spring pea soup, chutney-glazed ham, pepper cheese biscuits and lemon beehive meringues.

This, my friends, is the recipe for a fantastic Easter meal!

Photo courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens at BHG.com.