Celebrity Pitmaster delivers Memorial Day feast

Memorial Day traditionally ushers in summer and for many of us, that's the signal to start cranking up the grill and gathering the gang. But, let's face it, planning the party eats up precious time that can be better spent enjoying the event.

If only you could snag a well-known celebrity chef to help out with the heavy lifting -- menu planning and shopping -- for instance. Wouldn't that be sweet?

Say hello to Chef'd. Launched about a year ago, the company provides meals with pre-portioned ingredients and easy to follow recipes delivered to your door. There are a couple of key difference between Chef'd and other online meal kits. You don't need a subscription -- order a meal here and there, whenever the mood strikes. And the extensive menu options, which include gluten-free, paleo and vegan, are sourced from well-known chefs and brands -- Susan Feniger, Fabio Viviani, James Beard Foundation and allrecipes.com are just a few examples.

For Memorial Day offerings, Chef'd has teamed with Georgia native and celebrity BBQ Pitmaster, Myron Mixon.

"When our customers asked for barbecue dishes, we listened. Chef'd partner Myron Mixon is the 'winningest man in barbecue,' delivering secret tips and tricks on his television show BBQ Pit Masters, and is the four-time World BBQ Champion. No need to look elsewhere," says Erin Greig, director of partner marketing, Chef'd.

The ready to assemble Memorial Day meals are easily prepared by experienced cooks as well as the weekend novice who does little more than occasionally slapping a steak on the grill.

"You got to do something that's quick and easy. You're not going to get to enjoy the party if you're cooking something that takes eight hours," says Mixon.

The Pitmaster offers a wide selection that includes smoked baby back ribs, smoked brisket, pulled pork and old-fashioned barbecued chicken. And those are just the meat choices. Consider peach baked beans, Mama's coleslaw, zesty potato salad and mac n' cheese as sides.

To get your Memorial Day box in time for the holiday, order by May 24. But, don't worry, because even if you miss the deadline, Mixon's selections will be available through the summer barbecue season.

And when you've had your fill of 'cue, you might be pleased to know that Chef'd also partners with Weight Watchers.