Parties can be intimidating when you’re on a weight loss journey, especially when the weather’s nice. I love a grilled beef burger on a bun paired with potato salad and followed by a patriotic cake. But in reality, I would feel terrible the next day. Not only physically but also mentally.
But I firmly believe to make any diet work long-term, you can’t completely cut out any foods you enjoy. That’s why I’ve tested and created hundreds of ligthened-up dishes that you can bring to a cookout or serve at your next get together. With simple swaps and adjusted portions, you’re still getting all the flavors without all the calories.
Below you’ll find enough recipes to create a yummy and healthy summer party menu.
Lightened-Up Classic Burger
Starting off strong with a party classic. This recipe mixes lean ground beef with a variety of seasonings before it’s grilled and topped with veggies and a potato bun. This healthy version of a cookout staple is packed with so much flavor, you won’t miss the fattier version!
More Beef Burger Recipes:
Summer Grilled Corn Salad
This fresh and colorful salad is jammed packed with grilled veggies and bright flavors. Serve this at your next party or bring it to a cookout and there definitely won’t be any left! This recipe pairs perfectly with any protein, and the flavors only get better the longer it sits in the fridge!
More Veggie Packed Side Dish Recipes:
Healthy Loaded Potato Salad
Another cookout classic that’s lightened-up without sacrificing flavor. No BBQ is complete without potato salad, and no side is more indulgent than a loaded baked potato. This side dish is a fun one to make and serve at your next summer party.
Maple Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken Breast
This easy twist on traditional grilled chicken will impress all of your guests. It starts with a spice blend then is grilled to perfection before it’s finished with a delicious glaze. Serve this sweet, sticky, and smoky dish as the protein at your next barbecue.
More Grilled Chicken Recipes:
Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
This Italian-inspired pasta salad is packed with bright colors and the familiar flavors of a Caprese salad. Using only a few ingredients, this pasta salad side dish is easy to throw together to make for or bring to your next cookout! Tip: swap the regular pasta for protein pasta to make this a higher protein option!
Sweet and Sour Grilled Shrimp Skewers
This sweet and sour grilled recipe is a fun, unexpected main dish to serve at a BBQ party. These skewers are packed with flavor and are a great, lightened-up alternative to meat.
More Grilled Shrimp Recipes:
Dessert Shells with Macerated Mixed Berries
No summer party is complete without a dessert! These festive dessert shells require no cook time and are easy to make. Assemble them is less than 5 minutes at your own party or bring to a BBQ.
More Summer Dessert Recipes:
Don’t let summer parties be detrimental to your health goals! These healthy recipes will be welcome at any event you’re hosting or attending this year. And when it doubt, stick to a lean protein and smaller portions of the sides and dessert.
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