Are you ready to honor and celebrate our brave veterans this Veterans Day? Look no further for mouthwatering recipes that will leave everyone at your gathering satisfied and grateful. From savory appetizers to delectable desserts, these delicious recipes are sure to make your Veterans Day celebration a memorable one. Let’s get cooking and show our appreciation for those who have served our country!
Appetizers
Flag-Inspired Fruit Skewers
Are you looking for a tasty and festive appetizer to kick off your Veterans Day celebration? Look no further than these flag-inspired fruit skewers! With a vibrant array of red, white, and blue fruits, these skewers are not only delicious but also a colorful way to pay tribute to veterans. Simply alternate chunks of juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and plump blueberries onto wooden skewers and arrange them in the shape of an American flag. Serve alongside a creamy yogurt dip for an extra touch of indulgence.
Camouflage Deviled Eggs
Add a fun twist to a classic party favorite with these camouflage deviled eggs. Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who have served our country, and what better way to do it than with a dish that represents their dedication and camouflage uniforms? Start by hard-boiling eggs, then peel and slice them in half. Scoop out the yolks and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and a dash of paprika for added flavor. To achieve the camouflage effect, add drops of green and brown food coloring to the yolk mixture before piping it back into the egg whites. Finish off with a sprinkle of chives or crispy bacon bits for an extra burst of texture and taste!
Red, White, and Blue Bruschetta
Celebrate Veterans Day with a burst of flavors in this patriotic red, white, and blue bruschetta! This appetizer is not only visually stunning but also a delightful combination of fresh ingredients. Start by toasting slices of a baguette until they are crispy and golden. Next, spread a layer of tangy goat cheese on each slice. Top half of the slices with ruby-red cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil for the red portion. For the white, spread creamy ricotta cheese on the remaining slices and add sliced mozzarella and a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. Finally, for the blue portion, scatter a handful of succulent blueberries on top of the goat cheese slices. Arrange them on a platter in the shape of the American flag and watch as your guests gobble them up with delight!
Main Dishes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
What better way to celebrate and honor our veterans than with a hearty and delicious BBQ pulled pork sandwich? This classic American dish is perfect for gatherings and will have your taste buds singing with joy. Start by slow-cooking a pork shoulder until it is tender and easily shreds apart. Once the pork is cooked, shred it and combine it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Pile the juicy pulled pork onto soft hamburger buns and serve with a side of coleslaw for the ultimate flavor combination. The tangy BBQ sauce paired with the creamy coleslaw creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand because these sandwiches can get messy!
Chicken Parmesan
Indulge in the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan on Veterans Day to honor the hardworking men and women who have served our country. This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser and will leave your guests satisfied and happy. Start by coating boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Pan-fry them until golden brown and crispy. Then, top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken is cooked through. Serve the chicken parmesan atop a bed of spaghetti or alongside some garlic bread for a complete and filling meal.
Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a mouthwatering grilled steak with chimichurri sauce this Veterans Day. Grilling a succulent steak to perfection is an art, and the chimichurri sauce adds a burst of flavor that enhances the natural juices of the meat. Start by seasoning a high-quality steak with salt, pepper, and your favorite steak seasoning. Grill the steak to your desired doneness, whether it be rare, medium-rare, or well-done. While the steak rests, prepare the vibrant chimichurri sauce by blending together fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the grilled steak and serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a truly unforgettable main course.
Sides
Classic Potato Salad
No Veterans Day celebration is complete without a side dish that is an all-time favorite – classic potato salad. This traditional American side dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a symbol of the comfort and familiarity we associate with our veterans. Start by boiling chunks of red potatoes until they are tender. While the potatoes cook, prepare the dressing by combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Once the potatoes have cooled, toss them with the dressing, along with chopped celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving chilled. The creamy and tangy potato salad is the perfect companion to any grilled or roasted meat dish.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food on Veterans Day with a piping hot dish of baked mac and cheese. This timeless classic is loved by people of all ages and is sure to be a hit at your gathering. Start by cooking your favorite pasta shapes until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and stir until the mixture thickens. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta and transfer to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and additional shredded cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a dish that is rich, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Add a touch of smoky sweetness to your Veterans Day feast with grilled corn on the cob. This simple yet flavorful side dish is a staple at summertime barbecues and a perfect way to pay tribute to our veterans. Start by soaking the corn in water for 15-20 minutes to prevent it from drying out on the grill. While the corn soaks, prepare a compound butter by combining softened butter with fresh herbs such as cilantro or chives, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the corn is ready, place it on a preheated grill and cook, turning occasionally, until it is charred in spots and tender. Remove from the grill and slather with the compound butter. The result is a smoky, buttery, and absolutely scrumptious side dish that pairs well with any grilled meat.
Salads
Mixed Green Salad with Cranberries and Feta
Add a refreshing and nutritious touch to your Veterans Day menu with a mixed green salad featuring cranberries and feta cheese. This vibrant salad is not only packed with healthy greens but also bursts of sweet and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Start by assembling a bed of mixed greens or your favorite lettuce variety. Top the greens with dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted walnuts for a delightful combination of textures. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss to coat. The result is a well-balanced salad that provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Caprese Salad
Celebrate Veterans Day with a light and refreshing caprese salad that showcases the vibrant colors of the American flag. This Italian classic is a perfect way to pay tribute to our veterans while indulging in the flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Start by slicing ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese into thick rounds. Arrange them on a platter, alternating the tomato and cheese slices. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers and drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper for added seasoning. This salad not only looks beautiful but also captures the essence of summer with its simplicity and delightful combination of flavors.
Broccoli and Bacon Salad
Add a delicious and hearty salad to your Veterans Day menu with this broccoli and bacon salad. Packed with crisp broccoli florets, crunchy bacon, and a creamy dressing, this salad is sure to please everyone at your gathering. Start by blanching the broccoli florets in boiling water for a few minutes until they turn bright green and retain a slight crunch. Drain and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to preserve their vibrant color and texture. In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with crispy bacon bits, diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. For the dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated. The result is a salad that is refreshing, creamy, and perfectly balanced in flavors.
Soups
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up on Veterans Day with a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. This classic soup is a crowd favorite and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a hearty main course. Start by simmering a combination of diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, onions, garlic, and a touch of sugar until the tomatoes are tender. Transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream and fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the flavors to meld together by simmering the soup for a few minutes over low heat. Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Pay homage to our veterans by serving a comforting and nourishing bowl of chicken noodle soup on Veterans Day. This timeless classic is simple to make and offers a soothing and satisfying experience. Start by cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a pot with chicken broth, carrots, celery, onions, and garlic. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add cooked egg noodles. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley for added flavor. Simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Ladle the warm and comforting soup into bowls and garnish with additional herbs. This chicken noodle soup is sure to warm both hearts and bellies.
Beef and Vegetable Stew
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful beef and vegetable stew on Veterans Day. This stick-to-your-ribs dish is a perfect way to honor our veterans and nourish your loved ones. Start by browning chunks of beef stew meat in a Dutch oven until they develop a rich, golden crust. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they become tender and fragrant. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, diced tomatoes, garlic, bay leaves, and a selection of root vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, and turnips. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for a few hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Serve the stew piping hot with a side of crusty bread for a heartwarming and satisfying meal.
Desserts
Patriotic Berry Trifle
End your Veterans Day celebration on a sweet note with a patriotic berry trifle that showcases the colors of the American flag. Layers of fluffy cake, luscious berries, and creamy whipped cream come together to create a stunning and delicious dessert. Start by baking a vanilla or angel food cake and cutting it into bite-sized cubes. In a trifle dish or individual glass jars, alternate layers of cake cubes, a mixture of fresh blueberries and strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of red and blue sprinkles for an extra festive touch. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This dessert is a showstopper that will impress your guests.
Apple Pie
No celebration is complete without a classic apple pie, and Veterans Day is no exception. Honor our veterans with the timeless flavors of warm apples, fragrant spices, and buttery flaky crust. Start by making or using a store-bought pie crust and lining a pie dish. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust and dot with butter. Cover the pie with a second crust or create a lattice pattern for an extra touch of elegance. Bake the pie until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. The aroma of the spiced apples filling your home will create a cozy and comforting atmosphere for your Veterans Day gathering. Serve the apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Flag-Inspired Cupcakes
Add a touch of creativity to your Veterans Day dessert table with flag-inspired cupcakes. These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also a fun and festive way to pay tribute to our veterans. Start by baking cupcakes in red, white, and blue colors. You can achieve these colors by tinting your favorite vanilla cupcake batter or using food coloring. Once the cupcakes have cooled, frost them with a smooth layer of white buttercream or cream cheese frosting. To create the flag design, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe rows of red and white stripes onto half of the cupcakes. For the other half, pipe a small square of blue frosting in the corner and add white stars using a small round tip or a stencil. Arrange the cupcakes on a platter in the shape of the American flag and watch as your guests marvel at your creativity and dedication to honoring our veterans.
Drinks
Refreshing Watermelon Lemonade
Quench your thirst on Veterans Day with a refreshing watermelon lemonade that will keep you cool and hydrated. This vibrant and fruity beverage is perfect for outdoor gatherings and adds a burst of summer to your celebration. Start by scooping out fresh watermelon flesh and blending it until smooth. Strain the watermelon juice to remove any seeds or pulp. In a pitcher, combine the watermelon juice with freshly squeezed lemon juice, a touch of simple syrup or honey for sweetness, and a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing effervescence. Stir well and pour the watermelon lemonade over ice. Garnish with a watermelon wedge or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness. Sip on this delightful beverage while enjoying the company of your loved ones and celebrating our veterans.
Sangria
Raise a glass and toast to our veterans with a pitcher of vibrant and flavorful sangria. This Spanish-inspired beverage is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Start by combining your favorite red wine with orange liqueur, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a selection of sliced fruits such as oranges, lemons, and berries. Allow the flavors to meld together by refrigerating the sangria for at least a few hours, or preferably overnight. Just before serving, add a splash of sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for a refreshing effervescence. Pour the sangria over ice and garnish with additional slices of fruit. The result is a fruity and aromatic drink that is perfect for toasting and celebrating our veterans.
Iced Tea
Cool down on Veterans Day with a classic glass of iced tea that is both refreshing and timeless. Brew a pot of your favorite tea, whether it be black, green, or herbal, and allow it to steep until strong and flavorful. Sweeten the tea to taste with sugar, honey, or a sweetener of your choice. Chill the tea in the refrigerator until cold. Serve the iced tea over ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lemon for added freshness. Sip on this refreshing beverage while honoring our veterans and enjoying the company of your loved ones. Cheers!
Breakfast
American Flag Pancakes
Start your Veterans Day on a delicious and patriotic note with a stack of American flag pancakes. These fluffy and indulgent pancakes feature the colors of the American flag and are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. Begin by preparing your favorite pancake batter, whether from scratch or using a mix. Divide the batter into three separate bowls. Tint one bowl of batter red using food coloring and another blue. Leave the third bowl of batter plain. Pour the red batter onto the center of a hot griddle, followed by a smaller circle of the plain batter, and finally, a smaller circle of the blue batter. Once the pancakes have cooked, flip them and cook until they are golden brown on both sides. Stack the pancakes in the order of the flag’s colors, with the blue pancake on top and the red pancake at the bottom. Serve the pancakes with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dollop of whipped cream for a truly festive and delicious Veterans Day breakfast.
Egg and Bacon Breakfast Burritos
Fuel up for a day of festivities with hearty and satisfying egg and bacon breakfast burritos. These portable and flavorful wraps are perfect for breakfast on the go and provide an excellent start to your Veterans Day celebrations. Begin by cooking strips of bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on a paper towel. In the same pan, scramble eggs until just set. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Warm flour tortillas and layer the scrambled eggs and bacon onto each tortilla. Add any additional fillings you desire, such as sautéed peppers and onions or avocado slices. Roll up the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Serve the breakfast burritos warm and enjoy them as you embark on a day filled with honoring our veterans and celebrating their contributions.
Blueberry Muffins
Greet your loved ones on Veterans Day with a batch of freshly baked blueberry muffins that are bursting with flavor and warmth. These tender and moist muffins are a classic breakfast treat that symbolize the meaningful connections we forge with our veterans. Start by combining flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in fresh blueberries. Fill greased or lined muffin cups two-thirds full with the batter. For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle the tops with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Bake the muffins until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying them alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Snacks
Trail Mix
Keep your energy levels high and your taste buds satisfied on Veterans Day with a homemade trail mix that is customizable and delicious. This portable snack is perfect for enjoying on the go or during breaks between celebrations. Begin by selecting a variety of nuts and seeds, such as almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Add dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots for a touch of sweetness. For an indulgent twist, incorporate dark chocolate chips or mini pretzels for added crunch. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and transfer the trail mix to individual snack bags or containers. Carry them with you throughout the day and enjoy the mix of flavors and textures whenever you need a quick pick-me-up. Celebrate our veterans with this wholesome and satisfying snack.
Popcorn
Delight your taste buds on Veterans Day with a classic and addictive snack – popcorn. This timeless treat is perfect for enjoying during movie marathons or as a flavorful addition to your celebration. Start by heating a large pot with a few tablespoons of vegetable or coconut oil over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Shake the pot occasionally to prevent the popcorn from burning. Once you hear the popping sound slow down, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop. Season the popcorn with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings such as salt, garlic powder, paprika, or grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the popcorn to evenly distribute the seasoning and enjoy this satisfying and crunchy snack.
Soft Pretzels
Indulge in the warm and soft delight of homemade pretzels on Veterans Day. This savory snack is perfect for sharing with loved ones while celebrating and honoring our veterans. Start by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit until the yeast bubbles and becomes frothy. Add flour, melted butter, and salt to the bowl and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion into a long rope. Shape the rope into a pretzel shape and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the pretzels with an egg wash and sprinkle them with coarse salt or a mixture of sesame seeds and poppy seeds for added flavor and texture. Bake the pretzels until they are golden brown and fragrant. Serve the warm pretzels alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as mustard, cheese dip, or hot sauce for a delicious and satisfying snack.
Specialty Dishes
Military MRE-Inspired Meal
Take your Veterans Day celebration to the next level with a military MRE (Meal, Ready-to-Eat)-inspired meal. This unique and themed dish pays homage to the meals provided to soldiers in the field, and it will surely impress your guests. Start by selecting a combination of pre-packaged meals that mimic the variety found in a military MRE. These may include main courses like chili mac and cheese, beef stew, or chicken curry, as well as a selection of sides such as crackers, cheese spreads, and fruit snacks. Arrange the MRE items on a tray or individual plates to resemble the military packaging. Serve the meal with a canteen of water or an army-style canteen cup filled with a refreshing beverage. This specialty dish not only incites curiosity and conversation but also pays tribute to the dedication and sacrifices made by our veterans.
Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches
Cool down on Veterans Day with patriotic ice cream sandwiches that are not only tasty but also a colorful way to celebrate our veterans. This frozen treat combines the classic flavors of ice cream and cookies into a mouthwatering dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Start by baking a batch of soft and chewy sugar cookies. Allow them to cool completely. Once the cookies have cooled, scoop your favorite flavors of ice cream onto the bottom side of half of the cookies. Top each ice cream-coated cookie with the remaining cookies, pressing gently to create a sandwich. If desired, roll the exposed edges of the ice cream in red, white, and blue sprinkles for added festive flair. Place the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for a few hours to allow them to firm up. Serve them chilled and watch as your guests enjoy this delightful and patriotic treat.
BBQ Ribs
Celebrate Veterans Day with a finger-licking good dish of BBQ ribs that is as flavorful as it is comforting. Ribs are a classic American dish that is often associated with gathering and celebration, making them a perfect choice to honor our veterans. Start by marinating racks of baby back or spare ribs in a tangy BBQ sauce overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the marinated ribs on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the ribs are charred in spots, tender, and cooked through. Baste the ribs with additional BBQ sauce during the cooking process for an extra layer of flavor and glaze. Once cooked, allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before cutting them into individual servings. Serve the BBQ ribs with additional sauce on the side and enjoy the smoky and succulent meat that pays tribute to our veterans.
