8 Simple Summer Healthy Options

Nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ. When all of your friends and family are watching their weight (it is swimsuit season, after all), it’s always nice to have lighter menu options. Just because you’re cooking healthy doesn’t mean you are giving up delicious food. I’ve rounded up some delicious ideas to incorporate into your summer that are still robust in flavor. So fire up the grill and get cookin’!

1. Warm Red Potato Salad: This super simple seven ingredient potato salad is a low-fat way to get your carb fix. Olive oil and vinegar dress up this side dish (no mayo here!). 
2. Black-Eyed Pea Ceviche: Make this yummy ceviche in the morning so it can soak up all of the tangy lemon dressing by the time your guests arrive. This vegan recipe is one even meat-eaters will love. 
3. Turkey-Spinach Sliders: We all know that replacing ground beef with lean, ground turkey is a serious calorie saver. To cut back even more of the fat, skip the bun and mayo and serve these in a lettuce wrap. 
4. Paleo BBQ Sauce: This recipe for homemade BBQ sauce may include a bit of butter and molasses, but it’s a much healthier option than one you’d pick up at your local market. Plus, it shows you how to make four different variations depending on your palate. Lightly coat this Paleo-friendly sauce on some chicken, fish, or lean protein for an extra barbecue kick.
5. Summer Coleslaw: Instead of dousing your cabbage in mayo, opt for this Asian-inspired slaw made with sesame oil and lemon. It’s a lighter (and much tastier) way to eat your veggies. 
6. Grilled Avocados With Black Bean Pico de Gallo: While we can’t deny the deliciousness of guac and chips, these grilled avocados filled with protein-packed salsa are a crazy-good alternative. 
7. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: We know what you’re thinking, but you can actually make a figure-friendly version of a pulled pork sammie. If you’ve got a slow-cooker, just set it and forget it! 
8. Chipotle Lime Shrimp Skewers: All you need is 20 minutes to marinate these babies before you throw another shrimp on the barbie. Shrimp is a tasty, healthy protein choice. 

One last tip for “lightening up” your plate, I recommend https://canyonglutenfree.com as your “bun” choice.

If you’ve enjoyed these recipes please spread the Confidently Love Yourself message by sharing them on Facebook & tag me @Dee Viveiros Davidson!