Labor Day is the perfect time to gather the family and enjoy some delicious, kid-friendly recipes that everyone will love. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a cozy indoor feast, these recipes will make your Labor Day celebration memorable. From savory dishes to sweet treats, this guide has got you covered.
1. Dutch Oven Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Kick off your Labor Day celebration with a crowd-pleaser: pulled pork sandwiches. To make this dish, you’ll need a Dutch oven. Start by seasoning a pork shoulder with salt, pepper, paprika, and brown sugar.
Place the pork in the Dutch oven, add some sliced onions and garlic, and pour in a cup of apple cider vinegar and a cup of water. Cover and cook in a preheated oven at 300°F until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce. Serve it up on toasted buns with coleslaw for a satisfying meal that will be a hit for kids and adults.
2. Rainbow Veggie Skewers
Veggie skewers are a fun and healthy way to get kids excited about eating vegetables. Cut colorful veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onions into bite-sized pieces. Let your kids help thread the veggies on skewers, alternating colors to create a rainbow effect.
Brush the skewers with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Grill the skewers over medium heat for about 10 minutes, and turn them occasionally until the veggies are tender and slightly charred. Serve with a side of ranch dressing or hummus for dipping.
3. Mini Cheeseburger Sliders
Mini cheeseburger sliders are ideal for little hands and big appetites. To make these, form small burger patties from ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook the patties on a grill or stovetop over medium-high heat for about three to four minutes per side or until cooked through.
Place the cooked patties on mini slider buns and top with a slice of cheddar cheese. Let your kids customize their sliders with favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and ketchup.
4. Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
A refreshing fruit salad is a must-have for any Labor Day celebration. Start by gathering a variety of fresh fruits like watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and grapes. Have your kids help wash and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of two limes, two tablespoons of honey, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle the honey-lime dressing over the fruit and gently toss to combine. Serve the fruit salad chilled for a sweet and tangy treat that everyone will enjoy.
5. Cheesy Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer favorite that’s easy to make. For this family-friendly Labor Day recipe, you’ll add a cheesy twist that makes it even more irresistible. Begin by husking and cleaning the corn. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the corn and cook for five to seven minutes until tender.
While the corn is cooking, prepare a cheesy topping by mixing 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese with 1/2 cup of crumbled cotija cheese in a bowl. Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the water and pat dry with a paper towel. Brush each ear with melted butter, then roll it in the cheese mixture until fully coated.
To finish up, sprinkle with a little chili powder for a mild kick, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor.
6. S’mores Dip
No Labor Day celebration is complete without a sweet treat, and this s’mores dip is a fun twist on the classic campfire dessert. To make the dip, spread a layer of chocolate chips in the bottom of a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish. Top with a layer of mini marshmallows.
Place the skillet under the broiler for two to three minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and gooey. Serve the dip with graham crackers for dipping. This ooey-gooey dessert is sure to be a hit with everyone in attendance.
7. Patriotic Parfaits
Complete your Labor Day celebration with a festive and healthy dessert: patriotic parfaits. Start by layering vanilla yogurt in clear cups or mason jars. Add a layer of fresh blueberries, a layer of yogurt, and then a layer of diced strawberries.
Repeat the layers until the cups are full, ending with a layer of yogurt. Top each parfait with a few more berries and a sprinkle of granola for added crunch.
A Delicious Labor Day Feast
Labor Day is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy time with family and indulge in some tasty, kid-friendly recipes. From savory pulled pork sandwiches to sweet and refreshing patriotic parfaits, these recipes are sure to make your celebration special. Get the kids involved in the kitchen and create lasting memories together!
