Labor Day has always marked the end of summer relaxation and fun. The weekend signifies the beginning of Fall, school, and family activities. There is no better way to celebrate this occasion than having one final cookout with family and friends. No matter the scenery, from a cool breeze on a beach to a backyard affair, the key to a memorable event is a combination of little touches and proper menu offerings that fit the bill without taking too much preparation time.
Menu Items to Please a Crowd
Since Labor Day is still technically summer, start with bright dishes like grilled peaches with honey and basil or fresh tomato salad. These dishes reflect the seasonal trend while also being filling on their own. The main course should contain protein like grilled chicken, pork loin, or cedar plank salmon. A combination of these entrees is ideal for a mixed crowd. Portobello mushrooms are a nice touch for vegetarians and hold up well on the grill, comparable to heartier proteins.
Chef-Style Pairings
Pairing wine or cocktails with select menu items sounds like a job for a chef. But with some practice and homework, anyone can make the perfect pairings in minutes, adding a wow factor for Labor Day guests. For instance, a chilled Kali Hart Chardonnay adds a light and tropical touch that pairs nicely with fish, grilled peaches, or even a citrusy corn on the cob rubbed with lime juice.
A Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon provides the ideal companion as the sun sets and the grill embers glow orange. Its deep blackberry and cassis notes subtly touch the darkened scenery and pair well with slow-cooked ribs or steak.
It’s All in the Details
Little decorative touches go a long way toward a splendid evening, which is why the best restaurants “set the mood” with lighting and other decor. Ditch the paper plates for this cookout and add pizazz with mismatched China or other fun dinnerware, like orange or green plates. Edison-bulb lights are another popular option, not only adding the right touch of lighting, but their unique shape is a conversation starter.
Galvanized tubs filled with ice and drinks (including the Kali Hart Chardonnay) are a nice addition to the laidback yet sophisticated menu and wine pairings. That is one of the best things about this holiday. It has a relaxed atmosphere with a hint of sophistication, making it stand apart from other celebrations.
Don’t Forget Dessert
The final note of the evening should be dessert, and there is a range of low-fuss and fun options to consider. Grilled pineapple is always a crowd pleaser; it only takes a little olive oil and a hot grill. The oil locks in the tangy juices and makes for a bright, summery treat, especially garnished with fresh basil. Or, opt for a traditional S’mores platter, which brings out the kid in everybody.
No matter how you send off the Summer season, a simple yet elevated cookout is fun and will become a tradition.
