Eating healthy and staying on track is great when you got a routine, but when it comes to an upcoming party, say 4th of July, you are suddenly confronted with a seemingly herculean task.
You know what I’m talking about.
It’s the feeling that you are gambling with the possibility of “cheating” on your diet, but also because you are afraid of subjecting your friends to a snapshot of your “goody-two-shoes” diet.
It’s an awkward situation. You want to be good and stay on track; but you also want to have fun with your friends and participate in the tasty goodies.
Since my mind was abuzz with questions, I began to explore the great world of healthy food ideas to bring to my family’s annual 4th of July party.
And amidst all the colorful red, white, and blue cupcakes and sprinkles, I wanted to share some party food ideas that will help you stay on track with your health goals, but won’t exclude you or your friends from enjoying some delicious food.
1. American Flag Fruit Skewer
This American flag fruit skewer contains 3 simple ingredients: bananas, strawberries, and blueberries. That’s it. Even in it’s utter simplicity, this dish will totally turn heads!
2. Red, White, and Blue Deviled Eggs
I used to hate deviled eggs as a kid; now I CANNOT get enough! Now add some colors of the American flag, and you got yourself an “eggs-ellent” patriotic party (puns not included).
3. Fourth of July Firework Fruit Kabobs
This firework fruit kabob is the cutest (yet easiest) thing I have ever had the pleasure of observing. Seriously, make everyday fruit into new shapes, and people lose their minds, and the will to resist! All you need is a star cut-out stencil, skewers, watermelon, and blueberries.
4. Red, White, and Blue Parfaits
Everyone loves parfaits, and if it bears the colors of ‘Murica, it’s the perfect, satisfying, and healthy party pleaser. Simply adding colorful fruit like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries layered with whipped cream is a lovely and attractive treat.
5. Grilled Romaine Lettuce with Corn and Avocado
Yeah, apparently romaine lettuce can be grilled! This romaine lettuce with corn and avocado gives that “wow!” factor to all your friends who love grilled food and the “OMG HOLY CRAP YES!” reaction to all your avocado lovers. It’s the perfect tasty, summery, and healthy food combination!
6. Mediterranean Pasta Salad (with whole wheat pasta)
Who doesn’t LOVE pasta salad!! I mean really. Just look at this mediterranean pasta salad. Using colorful foods like tomatoes, red onions, and kalamata olives can add a huge POP when combined with the pasta (I recommend subbing white pasta with whole wheat!); Plus, adding some of that beautiful feta cheese will give you a lovely salty taste! No one will be able to say “basta!” to this pasta.
7. Healthy “Pizza” Dessert
This party food idea combines the beautiful concept of America’s favorite carb, pizza, with gorgeously arranged fruits. The crust is a spelt blueberry pancake and the topping is whipped cream with fruit! Although the original recipe is for 2, just do a little math to make it for 12 or more 🙂
8. The Ultimate Unbaked Brownie
These ultimate unbaked brownies are literally the best, decadent, and healthiest version of a brownie I have ever had the pleasure of putting in my mouth. These brownies are made with dates, walnuts, and cacao powder; no flour, no gluten, no refined sugar. ‘Murica!
BONUS: Paleo Lemon Square Bars
One thing that I absolutely love about summer is the bright, sunny colors, and these paleo lemon bars are no exception! As a lemon fanatic, this dessert is tangy, bright, naturally sweet, and D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S! No one will ever know there isn’t an ounce of flour or refined sugar inside!
Whew! Now that is a plethora of palatable party food ideas!
If you are on the hunt for some 4th of July party food ideas, consider some of the desserts, entrees, and appetizers mentioned above!
So, spare yourself from sticking to bland carrots and blow everyone away with amazing food that doesn’t even TASTE healthy.
What are your favorite healthy party food ideas for the holiday? Share and comment below!