Happy 4th of July weekend everyone.  Summer is such a time for BBQs, parties and if you are like us, lots of birthdays!  Parties are made for eating, drinking and having a great time!  I like to bring 1 or 2 healthy side dishes to the party because I love knowing there is a healthy option available. Today I'm sharing three of my favorite healthy side dishes that are sure to be crowd pleasers!

Chopped Caprese Salad

I just made this salad recently for a friend get-together and it was so, so good.  It is light and flavorful with the fresh taste of basil.  It would also be great on top of some grilled chicken.

Ingredients:

• 1 container cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered depending on size (or you can chop some yummy local tomatoes)

• 4 to 8oz fresh mozzarella, chopped or use mozzarella pearls

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chiffonade or torn

• 2 T EVOO

• 1-2 T balsamic vinegar

• salt, to taste

Directions: 

1. Combine tomatoes, mozzarella and basil in bowl.

2. Add EVOO and lightly mix.

3. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

4. Sprinkle with salt.

Tex-Mex Coleslaw

From Home Made Interest

I love pretty much anything with Mexican spices and cilantro!  This coleslaw is really good, ya'll. I'm linking the recipe here.  I used a yogurt ranch dressing instead of the one they recommend.  I would imagine this would be fantastic with some avocado as well, because what isn't?

Guacamole

Again with the avocados! Guacamole is my go-to healthy side dish to bring to a party. It is fresh, easy and loaded with real ingredients and real flavor. You can pair it with classic tortilla chips or try it with jicama and celery sticks. This is roughly my recipe without using a recipe.

Ingredients:

• avocados, 2 large or 3-4 small

• 1 Roma tomato, chopped

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1/2 jalapeño, seeds removed, chopped (optional, but tasty)

• chopped cilantro, about a handful

• juice of 1/2 lime

• salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Chop, mix and enjoy...with a tasty marg! If you are using a salty chip, salt in the guac isn't necessary. I love it because it brings out more of the flavor.

My other favorites to bring to a party are hummus and veggies or an easy fruit salad. Fruit is always a hit, especially if there are kids at the party.

Hope you all have a happy and safe 4th of July full of great food and great memories! Party on!

Lindsay