Memorial Day is a time to honor our nation's heroes and celebrate the unofficial start of summer. And what better way to do that than with a delicious spread of food? Erin O'Brien, author of the cookbook 'Dig In!', joins 'Good Morning America' to share some mouth-watering recipes perfect for any Memorial Day gathering. From pasta salads to skillet berry crumbles, these dishes will surely impress your guests and get everyone in the summer spirit.
One of the standout recipes is the Best Ever Pasta Salad. This dish is a vibrant and flavorful explosion of ingredients. The zesty red wine vinaigrette is a perfect balance of tangy and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the sugar. The pasta salad itself is a colorful mix of fusilli, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, and onions. The addition of Asiago, Genoa salami, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheeses brings a rich, creamy texture to the dish. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that ties everything together.
What makes this pasta salad truly special is the way it comes together. By cooking the pasta separately and then tossing it with the vinaigrette, you ensure that the pasta stays al dente and doesn't become mushy. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. And the best part? It can be served immediately or chilled for a few hours or overnight, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Another standout recipe is the Skillet Berry Crumble. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic berry crumble, with a crispy, buttery topping and a warm, sweet filling. The crumble topping is made with a perfect blend of melted butter, brown sugar, and lemon zest, along with flour, oats, cinnamon, and salt. The filling is a burst of berries, with a hint of orange and lemon zest, and a touch of cornstarch for a smooth, creamy texture. The addition of vanilla ice cream on top takes this dessert to the next level.
What makes this skillet berry crumble truly unique is the way it's baked in a skillet. The butter and sugar create a caramelized, crispy topping that's perfect for scooping up with a spoon. The warm, sweet filling is a perfect contrast to the crunchy topping, and the berries provide a burst of freshness. This dish is a true celebration of summer flavors and is sure to be a hit at any Memorial Day gathering.
Finally, there's the Perfect Green Bean Salad. This dish is a simple, yet elegant side dish that's perfect for any summer meal. The green beans are cooked until crisp-tender and then tossed with a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The addition of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and roasted almonds brings a rich, nutty flavor to the dish. The best part? It's a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
What makes this green bean salad truly special is the way it showcases the fresh, seasonal flavors of summer. The green beans are a perfect complement to the light vinaigrette, and the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese adds a rich, savory note. The roasted almonds provide a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor profile. This dish is a true celebration of simplicity and freshness, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any Memorial Day gathering.
In my opinion, these recipes are a perfect representation of the spirit of Memorial Day. They're simple, yet flavorful, and they showcase the best of summer ingredients. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, a picnic, or a potluck, these dishes are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories. So, this Memorial Day, dig in and enjoy the flavors of summer!
