Independence Day: Free from junk food!

Hey everyone! Tomorrow is Independence Day and I'm sure you are likely to spend the next four days at cookouts, picnics, etc. Many times there aren't a lot of options that are healthy--- and the ones that are pushed as "healthy"  because they are low cal, low fat, etc are usually full of artificial sugars and other junk that you don't want to put in your body! SO why not make your own delicious, truly healthy dish to pass?!

One of my favorite dietitians, Dietian Cassie, posted a blog (check it out here )
featuring healthy summer salads that are "delicious, better-for-you alternatives to traditional pasta, potato and cool whip salads. " I don't know about you, but I'm dying to try that cauliflower salad! Bonus: all of these recipes are gluten free! 

Another great summer picnic recipe is Peak 313's Italian Orzo Salad....healthy AND easy to make! 

And finally, my personal favorite---cucumber avocado caprese salad! Here's what you need:

2 cucumbers 

1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (about 30)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1 cup fresh mozzarella

1 avocado

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Wash, dry, and cut tomatoes (into quarters) and cucumbers (cut into slices, then quarters.) Dice the avocado and mozzarella. Place cukes, tomatoes, avocado, basil, and mozzarella in a bowl. Pour on oil, vinegar, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly and serve. This is one of my favorite summer dishes--- light and refreshing.

I hope you all have a safe, healthy, and fun holiday! What is your favorite healthy summer side dish?