7 Recipes for the Ultimate Labor Day Menu

This post originally appeared on RealSimple.com.

If you’re celebrating the last few days of summer with a backyard barbecue, let this no-fuss menu be your guide.

Eggplant Caviar

This smoky, rich eggplant dip paired with a hefty helping of pumpernickel bread and diced vegetables will give your guests something to snack on while the main course cooks.

Get the recipe.

Grilled Buttermilk Chicken

To keep the meat from drying out, marinate the chicken in a flavorful buttermilk mixture overnight and toss on the grill 30 minutes before dinner time.

Get the recipe.

(MORE: 15 Traditional American Recipes)

Shrimp, Salmon, and Scallop Kebabs

Pair your turf with these tasty skewers, which star three of the most popular fish in the sea: shrimp, salmon, and scallops.

Get the recipe.

Tomato and Mozzarella Quesadillas With Basil

Vegetarians and meat-lovers will covet this gooey quesadilla, layered with vine-ripe tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkling of fresh basil.

Get the recipe.

(MORE: 20 Recipes for Fresh Summer Tomatoes)

Parsleyed Corn on the Cob

Take this barbecue staple to new heights with melted butter and chopped parsley.

Get the recipe.

Summer Squash Ribbons With Lemon and Parmesan

Dress strips of squash with a simple, but delicious dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and shaved Parmesan—no cooking necessary.

Get the recipe.

Peach and Raspberry Parfait

This dessert is neither plain nor time consuming: Simply sprinkle fresh summer fruit with sugar and let sit for 20 minutes to create the perfect no-fuss sauce for vanilla ice cream.
Get the recipe.

(MORE: 17 Great Summer Desserts)