A Collection of Recipes for the Long Weekend

by The Magnolia Team

Published on May 19, 2026

A woman making sparkling lemonade with a glass juicer, fresh lemons, and a large pitcher of strawberry puree.

We love a summer holiday around here. These little pockets of joy come at just the right time to welcome warmer weather or soak up one of the sweet, sun-drenched moments during the heat of the season. In our opinion, any long weekend is a good excuse to gather, offering us the gift of (extra) time—together.

Below, we’re sharing some go-to recipes for every kind of summertime get-together, whether a big backyard barbecue, a classic picnic, or a last-minute lunch with friends. There are appetizers, burgers, sweet treats, and more—everything you need to get the party started! Let’s dig in…

EASY APPETIZERS

A colorful bowl of Cowboy Caviar showing black eyed peas, avocado, cilantro, and other veggies.

Texas Caviar

By Joanna Gaines

A simple, summer dip loaded with black-eyed peas, fresh lime, and colorful veggies.

Peach Caprese

By Joanna Gaines

White and yellow peaches tossed in a simple vinaigrette with mozzarella and basil.

A plate of seasoned, crispy french fries resting on a wooden table.

Fries with Feta

By Amanda Sudano Ramirez and Abner Ramirez

Sliced potatoes fried until crispy, then seasoned with feta, oregano, honey, and sea salt.

SHAREABLE MAINS

Three drip jam-topped burgers, just like the ones served at Magnolia Table.

Gaines Brother Burgers with Drip Jam

By Joanna Gaines

Classic burgers layered with sweet drip jam, creamy melted cheese, fresh tomato, and arugula on buttered brioche buns.

A plate of two tacos loaded with pork and watermelon relish.

Grilled Pork Tacos with Watermelon Relish

By Magnolia

Flour tortillas filled with grilled pork tenderloin, quick coleslaw, and watermelon relish.

Joanna Gaines' homemade chicken tenders served on a plate with a side of hot honey.

Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey

By Joanna Gaines

Hand-battered chicken strips served with homemade hot honey.

SWEET TREATS

A wooden spoon and plaid cloth napkin resting next to a large glass trifle dish filled with layers of Jo's banana pudding.

Aunt Opal’s Banana Pudding

By Joanna Gaines

Vanilla pudding layered with vanilla wafers, banana slices, and homemade whipped cream.

Cherries Jubilee

By Joanna Gaines

Classic vanilla ice cream topped with orange-infused flambéed cherries.

REFRESHING DRINKS

A glass of blended watermelon lemonade with additional slices of watermelon in the background.

Pink Watermelon Lemonade Slushes

By Magnolia

Watermelon slush blended with lemon and sweetened with homemade simple syrup.

A large glass pitcher filled with Sparking Strawberry Lemonade, plus two drinking glasses adorned with fresh strawberries.

Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade

By Magnolia

Pureed strawberries mixed with fresh-squeezed lemon juice and sparkling water. Adapted from the summer 2026 issue of Magnolia Journal. Click here to learn about our seasonal supper club series, The Shared Table, and get inspired to host a gathering of your own.

Part of the fun is putting it all together. Find cookware, serveware, and other kitchen essentials that take the pressure off—and put the charm back in—summer hosting.