Today, I’m excited to share 10 finger food ideas for Memorial Day that are easy to make and perfect for any gathering. Memorial Day is a time for honoring those who have served our country while also enjoying the company of family and friends. One of my favorite ways to celebrate this day is by preparing delicious finger foods that everyone can enjoy.
1. Mini BBQ Meatballs
These mini BBQ meatballs are a crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I made them for a Memorial Day cookout. They disappeared in minutes! To make them, mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and your favorite seasonings. Shape them into small balls and bake them in the oven. Once they are cooked, toss them in BBQ sauce and serve with toothpicks.
Ingredients for Mini BBQ Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
How to Make Mini BBQ Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Form into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- Toss in BBQ sauce before serving.
2. Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are fresh and flavorful. I love how simple they are to prepare. Just thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor. They look beautiful on a platter and are a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients for Caprese Skewers
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 lb mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
How to Make Caprese Skewers
- On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball.
- Repeat until the skewer is filled.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
3. Stuffed Mini Peppers
Stuffed mini peppers are colorful and delicious. I often make these when I want something a bit different. You can stuff them with cream cheese, herbs, and spices for a tasty treat. They are easy to pick up and eat, making them perfect for a Memorial Day celebration.
Ingredients for Stuffed Mini Peppers
- 1 lb mini sweet peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh herbs (like chives or parsley)
How to Make Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cut the mini peppers in half and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, garlic powder, and herbs.
- Fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
4. Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp cocktail is a classic finger food that never goes out of style. I remember enjoying this dish at family gatherings growing up. To make it, simply boil shrimp until they are pink and tender. Serve with a tangy cocktail sauce for dipping.
Ingredients for Shrimp Cocktail
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cocktail sauce
- Lemon wedges for garnish
How to Make Shrimp Cocktail
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
- Drain and chill in ice water.
- Serve with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
5. Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
Spinach and feta pinwheels are a tasty vegetarian option. I love making these for gatherings because they are easy to prepare and everyone enjoys them. Spread cream cheese on a tortilla, add spinach and feta, then roll it up and slice into pinwheels.
Ingredients for Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
- 4 large tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup feta cheese
How to Make Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
- Spread cream cheese evenly over each tortilla.
- Add spinach and sprinkle feta cheese on top.
- Roll each tortilla tightly and slice into pinwheels.
- Arrange on a platter for serving.
6. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a timeless favorite. I always make sure to include them at my Memorial Day gatherings. Boil eggs, cut them in half, and mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. Fill the egg whites with the mixture for a delicious bite-sized treat.
Ingredients for Deviled Eggs
- 12 eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Deviled Eggs
- Boil eggs for 10-12 minutes and cool in ice water.
- Peel and cut eggs in half.
- Remove yolks and mix with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Fill egg whites with the yolk mixture.
7. Chicken Skewers
Chicken skewers are great for grilling. I often marinate chicken pieces in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before grilling them. They are easy to eat and packed with flavor. Serve with a dipping sauce for extra taste.
Ingredients for Chicken Skewers
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Chicken Skewers
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread chicken onto skewers and grill until cooked through.
8. Fruit and Cheese Platter
A fruit and cheese platter is a refreshing addition to any spread. I love using a mix of cheeses, grapes, and berries. This combination is not only beautiful but also easy to prepare. Arrange everything on a platter and let guests help themselves.
Ingredients for Fruit and Cheese Platter
- Assorted cheeses (cheddar, brie, gouda)
- Grapes
- Strawberries
- Crackers
How to Assemble a Fruit and Cheese Platter
- Choose a large platter or board.
- Arrange cheeses in different sections.
- Fill in gaps with grapes and strawberries.
- Add crackers for a crunchy element.
9. Mini Tacos
Mini tacos are fun and flavorful. I enjoy making them with seasoned ground beef or chicken. Serve them in small taco shells and let guests add their favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, and guacamole. They are always a hit at parties.
Ingredients for Mini Tacos
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- Taco seasoning
- Mini taco shells
- Toppings (lettuce, cheese, salsa)
How to Make Mini Tacos
- Cook ground meat in a skillet with taco seasoning.
- Warm mini taco shells in the oven.
- Fill each shell with meat and toppings.
10. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
For a sweet finish, chocolate-dipped strawberries are perfect. I love how easy they are to make and how impressive they look. Melt chocolate, dip the strawberries, and let them cool on parchment paper. They add a touch of elegance to any gathering.
Ingredients for Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
- 1 lb fresh strawberries
- 8 oz chocolate (dark or milk)
- Sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
- Melt chocolate in a microwave or double boiler.
- Dip each strawberry into the chocolate and let excess drip off.
- Place on parchment paper to cool and set.
Enjoying Your 10 Finger Food for Memorial Day
These 10 finger food ideas for Memorial Day are sure to please your guests. They are easy to prepare and perfect for enjoying with family and friends. Whether you are hosting a large gathering or a small get-together, these dishes will add flavor and fun to your celebration. I hope you find these recipes helpful and that they inspire you to make a memorable Memorial Day feast!