Summertime. The season of barbeques, pool parties, and potlucks of all sorts. A time to kick back, relax, and let loose under the sun. We look forward to it all year. We plan, we prep, we work really hard to be feeling our best by the time those summer months roll around.
But have you noticed that summer also seems to be the season of trigger foods, temptations, and indulgences alike? Sure, the holidays are also filled with their fair share, but during the summer, it feels like there’s some type of celebration every other weekend. And although they’re usually a great time, navigating the food and drinks at these events can put quite a few roadblocks in between you and your health goals.
The good news is, it’s completely possible to work around these roadblocks and still enjoy yourself at the same time. One of the best ways to navigate potluck situations is to bring a healthy dish of your own. Making sure that you’re prepared with healthy options to choose from is half the battle. So next time you get invited to a summer social, try bringing one of these green-food-filled recipes, and discover your next potluck go-to.
Drinks
Watermelon Green Tea Refresher
Non-alcoholic and no sugar added! The natural sweetness from the watermelon is all you need. Approximate calories per serving: 99
Strawberry Basil Kombucha Mocktail
Looking for a ‘mocktail’? Kombucha is the perfect mixer! Approximate calories per serving: 49
Traditionally made from a mixture of wine and soda water, spritzers are a great way to keep the cocktail calories low. Approximate calories per serving: 162
Appetizers
Real results with a personalized weight loss program
Take the quiz!
This colorful salsa is packed with protein and fiber to help keep you feeling full longer. Fill up on a dish like this first before heading over to the dessert table. Approximate calories per serving: 182
Perfect for dipping, topping, or eating straight from the bowl. Approximate calories per serving: 47
Quick to assemble, watermelon and feta is a classic summer combo that celebrates the salty and sweet. Approximate calories per serving: 74
Salads and Sides
Skip the mayo and try this flavorful herbed potato salad instead. Approximate calories per serving: 195
WIth an olive oil and lemon-based dressing, this slaw is light, simple to prepare, and packed with nutrients like Vitamins C and K. Approximate calories per serving: 214
Summer Kale Salad with Berries and Goat Cheese
A simple salad that highlights the flavors of summer’s sweetest fruits. Leave out the almonds for an allergy-friendly dish. Approximate calories per serving: 179
Main Dishes
Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
Perfect for any cookout! Try marinating these kebabs overnight to make sure they’re packed with Mediterranean flavors. Approximate calories per serving: 228
A fun alternative to your traditional burger. To keep the calories low, skip the bun and serve these salmon burgers solo or in a lettuce wrap instead. Approximate calories per serving: 222
Be careful! These zucchini rolls might be low in calories, but they’re so delicious that you might have a hard time stepping away from them. Approximate calories per serving: 52
Desserts
Strawberry-Chocolate Greek Yogurt Bark
This sweet, frozen treat is a hit for the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to get creative with this one and use your own favorite fruit or toppings in place of the strawberries and chocolate. Approximate calories per serving: 34
Sorbet might sound intimidating to make at first, but it’s as simple as blending up your favorite fruit, adding a little lemon and honey, and then freezing the mixture. Approximate calories per serving: 80
Quick, easy, and oh-so versatile! This recipe uses cutie oranges, berries, and vegan chocolate. But you can easily swap in your own favorite fruits and chocolate. Did I hear someone say dark chocolate-dipped strawberries? Approximate calories per serving: 195
