Eight Healthy Recipes for a Summer Cookout

Photo by Theryn Fleming on Flickr/Creative Commons

Cookouts are one of the best parts of summer, but the food selection can be a bit lacking if you’re trying to eat healthfully. To add some lighter fare to your summer parties, we found eight healthy cookout recipes that your guests will still gobble up. Need more sides? Check out these healthy pasta salad ideas.

1. Broccoli Quinoa Salad
via Well Plated

This healthy side, made with quinoa, is perfect for any gluten-free guests on your list. The creamy dressing may taste decadent, but it’s made with nonfat Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice.

2. Grilled Salmon Skewers
via Natasha’s Kitchen

Instead of burgers and dogs, try serving these simple salmon skewers at your next barbecue. To prevent the skewers from catching fire, soak them in water for at least an hour before grilling.

3. Panzanella Salad
via Asia Bradlee

In this cookout recipe, traditional Tuscan salad gets a fruity twist with the addition of peaches. If you don’t have stale bread at your disposal, buy a fresh loaf and toast it in the oven.

4. Low-Carb Cauliflower “Potato” Salad
via Womanista

This low-carb “potato” salad is made with cooked cauliflower, yogurt, eggs, and green onions. But by puréeing half the cooked cauliflower, you’ll achieve a creamy texture that tricks your guests into thinking it’s the real thing.

5. Grilled Honey Lime Cilantro Chicken
via Eat Well 101

A sweet and spicy marinade gives this chicken dish its tangy flavor. And why stop at bell peppers on the skewers? Load ’em up with zucchini, onions, or summer squash, too.

6. White Bean Salad
via Running in a Skirt

Made with white beans, onions, tomatoes, and plenty of vegetables, this vegan recipe is the perfect side dish for your cookout spread. If you want to turn the leftovers into a meal, make a hearty salad by pairing a large portion with a bed of lettuce.

7. Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
via Natasha’s Kitchen

This simple summer salad comes together in only 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cookout prep. The recipe calls for cilantro, but if you don’t have it, fresh dill is a great substitute.

8. Pesto Grilled Shrimp
via Closet Cooking

Marinate shrimp with a homemade pesto, slide them onto skewers, and you’re ready to grill. Fresh or frozen shrimp would work well.