Bring the Flavor and Boost the Healthy at your July 4th Cookout With These 5 Dishes

/

Tomorrow, we say happy birthday to the USA and many of us will be celebrating with a cookout! If you're scratching your head about what to make that brings the flavor and keeps it healthy, look no further.

Don’t worry, I wouldn’t dream of telling you to put down your burger or hot dog on this day. But, there’s also no reason that we can’t bring a side dish of healthy to a cookout too. Here are 5 dishes that will not only taste great but be good for you and your guests too. What better way to tell people you love them!

  1. Coleslaw with Cumin-Lime Vinaigrette (bonus no mayo to worry about if it’s outside) - The cabbage is great cruciferous vegetable. And, the antioxidant rich red pepper and lime juice also boost your vitamin C. For an extra antioxidant boost, swap in some purple cabbage!

  2. Corn and Black Bean Salad with Basil Lime Vinaigrette - A sure fire hit at any summer party! Again, no need to worry about mayo or dairy in this salad! Make it easy on yourself and buy frozen mango and frozen corn. And, you can feel good serving beans since a serving of beans each day is common denominator in the blue areas of the world, the areas around the world with the longest living and healthiest individuals.

  3. Quinoa Tabbouleh with Feta - Take your tabbouleh up a notch with protein packed quinoa! This is a great dish for vegetarians or if you have any guests who are gluten free.

  4. Grilled Eggplant with Basil and Goat Cheese - This one can be served at room temperature so you can make everything ahead and toss the goat cheese on at the last minute. Eggplant’s deep purple color tells you that it’s packed with anthocyanins that help to protect our bodies against disease and keep our minds sharp.

  5. Watermelon - Believe it or not, watermelon is like nature’s sports drink. Loaded with water, natural sugars, vitamins and minerals, it comes along in the growing season right when we need to stay hydrated in the hot summer months. Serve it by itself, in a tomato, basil, and watermelon salad or try a Spicy Melon Salad !

So there you have it, 5 dishes sure to please a crowd! One last thing, don’t forget to put out water for your guests. If you’re able to make a big pitcher with lemons, limes or fruit in it, people will not only drink more water but you’ll also save on plastic water bottle waste.

Have a fun and safe 4th!