Memorial Day is almost here—which means, it's time to fire up the grill and celebrate the unofficial arrival of summer with an epic holiday weekend cookout as you safely reconnect with your family and friends.
If you're looking for some quick culinary inspo, here's a roundup of some of the best (and healthiest) Memorial Day recipes—from main dishes to sweet treats and everything in between—that are sure to wow your guests:
Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
Let's face it, no summer holiday spread is complete without delicious chicken kebabs. These delightfully juicy and tender skewers pack an explosion of flavors in every bite thanks to the light Mediterranean-style marinade made with garlic, herbs, olive oil and a splash of lemon juice. Get the recipe here. You might also want to check out this recipe for Chili Garlic Chicken Satay Skewers.
French Potato Salad
This mayo-free version of potato salad is tossed in a light dressing of Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, olive oil and vinegar. You can also throw in sun-dried tomatoes, roasted bell pepper, toasted nuts and feta cheese for added flavor and nutrition boost. Get the original recipe here.
Buffalo Turkey Burgers with Blue Cheese Broccoli Slaw
Upgrade your healthy eating game with these scrumptious turkey burgers featuring crunchy broccoli slaw, homemade skinny blue cheese dressing and a cayenne pepper kick. Here's the drool-worthy recipe.
If you're cooking for folks that don't eat meat, look no further than these delectable recipes for Vegan Portobello Burger with Pesto and Sundried Tomato Spread and Curried Eggplant, Lentil and Quinoa Burgers with Onion-Pepper Relish.
Red White and Blue Mini Cakes
Add a little sweetness to your Memorial Day weekend cookout spread with these berry-licious, gluten-free mini cakes. Here's the paleo-friendly recipe. If you're looking for some more easy-to-make, patriotic-themed dessert ideas, check out these recipes for Red, White and Blueberry Popsicles and Red, White and Blue Fruit Kebabs.
Grilled Curry Stuffed Avocados
Spicy chickpea salad infuses this simple grilled appetizer with a burst of flavors. Plus, it's loaded with essential nutrients like protein, fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. What's not to like? Get the vegan, gluten-free recipe here. This Healthy Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados recipe is also highly recommended.
Smoky Vegan Mushroom Pâté
Creamy red lentils, earthy mushroom, smoked paprika, herbs and homemade cashew cream make this vegan pâté a beautiful medley of different flavors and textures. Serve with fresh whole grain bread or oatcakes. Get the delish recipe here.
No-Bake Greek Yogurt Fruit Tart
With a raw pecan and date crust topped with dollops of Greek yogurt, chopped fresh berries and a drizzle of honey, this stunning no-bake dessert is as wholesome as it is delicious. Check out the full recipe here. This vegan, no-bake recipe for Earl Grey Blueberry Tart is also highly recommended.
Mediterranean-Style Salmon Burgers
These tender and juicy salmon burgers are bursting with flavor thanks to fresh greens, spices, Tzatziki sauce and a splash of lemon juice. Plus, they are chock full of heart-healthy omega fats and protein—making them a deliciously healthy beef-free crowd-pleaser. Nuff said. Here's the full recipe. You might also want to try this Salmon Quinoa Burgers recipe.
Skinny Shrimp Salsa
Tender shrimp, juicy tomatoes, red onion, cilantro and a dash of lime make this low-fat, gluten-free appetizer mouthwateringly good. And the best part? It takes barely 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish! Get the recipe here.
Southwestern Three Bean Salad
Protein-packed beans tossed in a deliciously spicy dressing of hot sauce, chili powder, garlic, and freshly squeezed lime juice make this hearty salad both filling and flavorful. Get the wholesome salad recipe here. I also tried and loved this Citrus-Lime Tofu Salad recipe.
