Easy and Healthy 4th of July Recipes

The Fourth of July is just two days away! It’s a day to celebrate freedom with family, fireworks and of course, food. With all the burgers and hot dogs, starchy sides and beers and sweet teas that usually accompany holiday parties here in Florida, it’s hard to stay on track as far as healthy eating goes.

One sure-fire way to make sure there are healthy options for you at a July 4^th cookout is to bring them yourself! Making some yummy, healthy alternatives to the heavier food choices will guarantee that you’re not feeling guilty after you eat, but the hostess will also be grateful for your contribution to the party.

There’s nothing wrong with a little indulgance, especially on a holiday. Just remember it’s all about balance! Eat a burger with a fruit salad on the side instead of potato salad. Drink some light sangria instead of heavy beer, or dip some baked chips in salsa or guacamole instead of cheese or bean dip.

Here are some easy, healthy recipes to take to your Fourth of July celebration! I’ve included the points (freestyle smart points) for all my fellow Weight Watchers gals!

Skinny Strawberry and Watermelon Spritzer (4 sp per glass)

Ingredients:

• One bottle of wine (I used strawberry wine from this Florida vineyard)
• 2 cans of lime-flavored seltzer
• 1 cup diced strawberries
• 1 cup chopped watermelon

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a pitcher. You can add in any fruits you want!

Chunky Guacamole (1 sp for 2 tbsp)

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• ¼ onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tsp lime juice
• ½ tomato, finely chopped
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

Directions:

Peel and core the avocado. Mash it up then add in the rest of the ingredients. Stir to combine.

Restaurant-Style Salsa (0sp!)

Ingredients:

• 28 oz can whole plum tomatoes and juice, unsalted
• ½ white onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno, chopped (you can use the seeds or leave them out for a milder salsa)
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 1/2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tsp. salt

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and combine. Serve with baked chips or veggies.

Star Spangled Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cartons of strawberries
• 1 large carton of blueberries
• 1 small watermelon

Directions:

Chop up strawberries and watermelon. I used a star-shaped cookie cutter on my watermelon to make it more festive! Combine all fruit in a large bowl.