It may be hard to believe, but as we’re already a few weeks into summer, the 4th of July holiday is right around the corner! Much like many of the other holidays we love celebrating, food is the center of most Independence Day family gatherings (besides the fireworks of course). While the traditional foods at family picnics and barbeques may be delicious, that doesn’t mean that they are necessarily the healthiest choices.
If you’re looking for creative ways to celebrate Independence Day this year, check out these healthy and patriotic recipes for you and your loved ones to enjoy together!
Red, White & Blue Recipes
Who says healthy can’t be delicious? Here are some healthy and patriotic recipes to try for your upcoming 4th of July picnic or barbeque:
- Very Berry Fruit Salad: Featuring strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes and blackberries, this fruit salad is very berry – and very delicious of course! This red, white and blue recipe is the perfect way to show patriotism at your 4th of July gathering, but since this fruit salad takes advantage of all the delicious fruits that are currently in season, this side dish will be a hit at any summertime family gathering.
- Chicken and Blueberry Pasta Salad: For a main course at your 4th of July celebration, you really can’t beat this chicken and blueberry pasta salad. Adding blueberries to a pasta salad may seem odd, but it helps turn this into a light and refreshing summertime meal.
- Red, White and Blue Popsicles: These festive desserts are sure to be a treat everyone in your family will love! Simply pick out which fruit you would like to use – blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and cherries are all options. At only 45 calories per popsicle, this is a healthy, tasty treat, but be sure to leave plenty of time to make them (they need to freeze for about six hours before serving).
- Mini-Berry Cream Pies: Running out of time to prepare a dessert? These mini-berry cream pies are delicious and super-easy to make! Simply fill frozen mini phyllo cups with the prepared cream and top with blueberries and raspberries, and you’re ready to serve this dessert right away! You can even chill the pies for up to four hours if needed.
Click here to view even more red, white and blue recipes and ideas.
While enjoying these healthy and patriotic recipes, it’s important to remember to stay safe during this summertime holiday. Although soda, alcohol, and other caffeinated drinks can be tempting during family gatherings, drink water instead so you can be sure that you are hydrated, especially if you’re outside for long periods of time.
Another tip: if you and your family are having a picnic or barbeque, be sure to find a shaded area. Even just staying in the shade for a few minutes can go a long way in regulating your body temperature on a hot, sunny day. And as always, don’t forget to apply plenty of sunscreen!
Although these tips are great ways to ensure your safety in the summer heat, accidents can still happen, even when your family is around. Luckily, with the Mobile Guardian medical alert device from Medical Guardian, your safety is guaranteed everywhere you go, every day of the year – even on holidays!
