Grilled hamburgers and hotdogs. Pulled Pork. About ten different chip options. Baked beans. Corn on the Cob. Mac n Cheese. Apple pie. Ice cream galore. 

This is the spread commonly found at Fourth of July gatherings. I have a feeling yours may look similar. 

While traditional Fourth of July foods are okay to enjoy in moderation, there are plenty of healthier options that are just as satisfying! I want to share four of my favorites today that are SUPER easy to prepare. 

For a TON of other healthy recipes, I recommend you visit the Faithful Workouts Cookbook. You can filter by type of dish, number of ingredients, and food sensitivities. 

1.) Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Instructions:

Cut up your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and onions into chunks. Marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper for about 30 minutes. Thread the vegetables onto skewers and grill until tender. Serve as a colorful and nutritious side dish.

2.) Watermelon Feta Salad

Instructions: 

Combine cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing and festive Fourth of July dish. 

3.) Quinoa Salad

Instructions:

Cook up some quinoa and let it cool. Mix it with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chopped fresh parsley, and a lemon vinaigrette dressing. 

4.) Greek Yogurt Fruit Dip 

Instructions:

Mix Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and a splash of vanilla extract. Serve it as a dip with a variety of fresh fruit like strawberries, pineapple, grapes, and apple slices for a natural sugar dessert option.

I find that, in general, it’s harder to maintain healthy eating habits on holidays. The abundance of processed and prepackaged foods are a major part of the challenge. Not to mention the temptation to indulge in sweets and alcoholic beverages loaded with sugar and empty calories. 

Please don’t think I’m telling you to entirely avoid the classic Fourth of July foods you love. I just want to encourage you to enjoy in moderation and to brighten up the menu with some healthier choices. 

Every meal is an opportunity to honor our health and the abundance of flavors that God has gifted us. 

How will you light up your Fourth of July menu?