Labor Day BBQ Prep with Azeka’s Sauce Favorites: Recipes, Tips & Crowd-Pleasing Ideas

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and there’s no better way to celebrate than firing up the grill, gathering your people, and making unforgettable food. Whether you’re hosting a full-on backyard bash or keeping it intimate with close friends, your favorite Azeka’s Sauce is here to bring bold island flavor to your table.

In this post, we’re serving up your ultimate Labor Day BBQ playbook: mouthwatering recipes, smart prep tips, a shopping list to simplify your planning, and even some social-worthy plating ideas to impress your guests (and your feed). Let’s make your final summer cookout the tastiest one yet.

Set the Scene for Your BBQ Bash

Before we dive into recipes, let’s talk about strategy. A well-planned BBQ means less stress and more time to kick back with your guests.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Keep your menu tight: Focus on 2 mains, 2 sides, 1 dessert. It’s manageable, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
  
• Choose a theme: Decorate and dress accordingly!
  
• Time your cook: Fire up the grill about 60–90 minutes before guests arrive so you’re not rushing, and have some light bites ready to snack on early.
  

Azeka’s Sauce BBQ Menu – Easy, Delicious & Grill-Ready

Nothing says “Labor Day hero” like a grill stacked with smoky, savory meats and vibrant sides. These recipes feature your favorite Azeka’s Sauce as the secret weapon. Sweet, salty, umami, and unforgettable.

Azeka’s Marinated Short Ribs

Our classic. Marinate flanken-cut beef short ribs overnight in Azeka’s Maui Original Sauce and toss them on a hot grill until caramelized and tender. Serve with grilled pineapple or a scoop of rice for full effect.

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Pineapple Glaze

Cube chicken thighs, marinate with Azeka’s Hawaiian Sweet Chili Sauce + a splash of pineapple juice, then skewer with bell peppers and onions. Grill and baste for glossy, sticky perfection.

Azeka’s Veggie Bowl or Portobello Steaks

Brush Azeka’s Spicy Maui Original Sauce over thick portobello mushrooms and grill until juicy. Serve over jasmine rice with grilled zucchini and avocado for a delicious vegetarian option.

Azeka’s Slaw or Drizzled Pasta Salad

Toss shredded cabbage with a little Azeka’s Maui Original Sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and green onion for a crunchy side. Or drizzle Azeka’s over a chilled pasta salad for a unique twist.

Drink Pairings

• Mocktail: Sparkling pineapple + mint
  
• Cocktail: Cucumber-lime gin fizz
  
• Beer: Hawaiian lager or citrusy IPA
  

Your Make-Ahead BBQ Prep Guide

Make hosting a breeze with this easy prep timeline:

2–3 Days Before
Finalize your guest count
Shop for groceries
Marinate short ribs and prep skewers (store in fridge)

1 Day Before
Make slaw or pasta salad
Chill drinks & prep dessert
Set the table or layout serving area

Day Of
Skewer chicken, slice garnishes
Fire up the grill ~60 mins before guests arrive
Plate and garnish just before serving

Your Labor Day BBQ Shopping List

Proteins

• Flanken-cut short ribs
  
• Chicken thighs
  
• Portobello mushrooms
  

Produce

• Pineapple
  
• Bell peppers
  
• Red onion
  
• Green onion
  
• Zucchini
  
• Cabbage
  
• Limes
  

Pantry & Essentials

• Azeka’s Sauce
  
• Rice vinegar
  
• Sesame oil
  
• Bamboo skewers
  
• Jasmine rice
  

Drinks & Extras

• Sparkling water
  
• Ice
  
• Local beer or spirits
  
• Dessert (mochi, fruit pops, coconut cake)
  

Plating & Presentation Tips

If you’re putting in the love, let it shine! Here’s how to create an Insta-ready spread:

• Use wooden boards or banana leaves for serving meats
  
• Drizzle extra Azeka’s Sauce over everything at the end
  
• Garnish with fresh lime wedges, green onions, or sesame seeds
  

Your Labor Day, Elevated by Azeka’s Sauce

With a little planning and a lot of flavor, your Labor Day BBQ will be one to remember. Azeka’s Sauce brings authentic, family-inspired taste to everything it touches, and makes you the BBQ MVP.

Grab your bottle today and get grillin’.

Order online or find buy locally in Arizona at the Gilbert Farmer’s Market, the Gilbert Butchery, or the Steadfast Farm Store!

Happy Labor Day from the Azeka’s family to yours.