Whether you’re a host or guest at the festivities, offering up some healthier dishes is always a good idea—there’s a high chance you won’t be the only one looking for lighter options (and no, the raw crudite platter just doesn’t cut it). Check out these 7 flavor-packed and filling ideas for your holiday celebration—or really, any summer cookout!
1. Southern Spiked Peach Iced Tea
It isn’t a party without something fun to sip on! Booze up plain old lemonade with a splash of vodka, add some peach iced tea, throw in some fresh fruit and mint, and boom: best barbecue beverage ever.
2. Smoky Avocado Burger With Pineapple Pepper Relish
Boost your burger game by spicing up ground beef with plenty of paprika, cumin, and ancho chili powder. Top the grilled patties with a chipotle-kissed mayo and an avocado spread, and cool them down with a spoonful of sweet pineapple relish—so many tastes and textures in a single bite.
3. Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges With Garlic Avocado Aioli
Sweet potato fries are addictive enough on their own, but when they’re baked to crispness instead of fried and paired with a heart-healthy avocado dipping sauce, they reach a whole new level of irresistible.
4. Berry Yogurt Bark
Taking advantage of summer berry season, this recipe calls for three of your favorite kinds. Press them into a lightly sweetened Greek yogurt mix and chill for a treat that tastes like fro-yo but is packed with antioxidants and protein.
5. Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Keep your barbecue free of grease by nixing the fried chicken and going for this grilled recipe instead. It may use a fraction of the oil, but thanks to the big squeeze of lime, generous dose of garlic, and all those fresh vegetables, the flavor is all there.
6. Coconut Water Fresh Berry Popsicles
An end-of-meal treat doesn’t get any simpler than this. All you need is a popsicle mold and a few hours for two simple ingredients—coconut water and your favorite berries—to turn into juicy, no-sugar-added dessert perfection.
7. Greek Yogurt Coleslaw
You’ll never miss the mayo in this cool and creamy coleslaw, which keeps the crunchy veggies and tangy lemon juice/apple cider vinegar combo of the original recipe, but is made much lighter with nonfat Greek yogurt.
