Labor Day weekend may not be the official end of summer, but it sure feels like it. Which is all the more reason to fire up the grill and make the most of the season while you still can. The best Labor Day recipes lean into both impulses: burgers, ribs, and hot dogs worthy of one last big cookout, alongside juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, watermelon, and stone fruit at their late-summer peak.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or bringing a dish to the party, we’ve got you covered. There are smash burgers and barbecue ribs for the traditionalists; grilled salmon and tofu burgers for those branching out; and plenty of cookout sides, including potato salad, pasta salad, baked beans, and slaw. Save room for a fruity galette or ice cream pie—and don’t forget the lemonade. Summer’s not over yet.
-
Photograph by Isa Zapata, Food Styling by Taneka Morris, Prop Styling by Catherine Campbell Pearson
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
This pulled pork recipe is virtually hands-free with a big flavor payoff. Make it ahead of time, set out some buns and pickles, and rest assured you won’t sweat all your makeup off before your Labor Day dinner even starts.
-
Photo by Emma Fishman, food styling by Rebecca Jurkevich
Pollo Asado
Marinate a spatchcocked chicken in a fragrant mix of achiote paste, cilantro, chiles, onion, and fresh citrus, then build a two-zone fire to cook it over the grill: the hot side chars it, developing the flavorful crust, while the cool side cooks it through.
