7 Recipes for the Ultimate Labor Day Menu

By Real Simple

August 29, 2014 9:06 AM EDT

Con Poulos

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.

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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.

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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.

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(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.

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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.

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(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.

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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.

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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.
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(MORE: 17 Great Summer Desserts)