The end of summer is often bittersweet. Labor day offers a final time to celebrate, gathering with loved ones either away or at home, probably around a meal. If a cookout is included in your holiday weekend plans, find some suggestions below for healthier dishes to contribute!
I always opt for a seasonal salad. This way you can guarantee there is at least one leafy green option available! Think arugula, cucumber slices, fresh berries, toasted walnuts, and perhaps some goat cheese tossed in a homemade dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and honey. It’s simple and delicious, and I bet others will be grateful there is a veggie dish to balance out the less nutritional fare.
If you don’t have the time to build a big salad, think healthy dips such as hummus and guacamole with raw veggies, gluten-free crackers, or Siete Foods tortilla chips
And lastly, because healthified baked goods are the name of my game, I will always bring a dessert of some sort. This gluten-free plant-based blueberry pie is a crowd-pleaser!
Sara McGlothlin, holistic nutritionist and founder of Gratisfied
When I head to a Labor Day cookout, I am sure to bring something healthy that even the unhealthiest eater will love! My Summer Veggie Salad is a hit at Labor Day parties and tastes like traditional pasta salad, but full of veggies and plant-powered goodness!
Lyndsey Piccolino, Blogger
I’d send my Creamy Corn & Chicken Salad. It’s easy to throw together and always a crowd pleaser. Any leftovers are a great complete meal by itself.
Meredith Mann, Holistic Health & Food Freedom Coach
For Labor Day this year, I’m planning on making a Gluten-free Berry Vanilla cake. It’s festive, fun to make, and a real crowd pleaser. I love bringing gluten-free cakes to events because it selfishly lets me eat some sweets, where I normally couldn’t, and also provides a good option for any other gluten-free people. With this cake in particular, I always find people amazed when they find out its gluten-free, even the pickiest of family members.
Lindsay Fuce, Holistic Nutritionist
When I think of Labor Day cookouts I cant help but think of a refreshing caesar salad. Growing up in an Italian household it was pretty much a staple for us. Since then, I’ve created my own vegan caesar dressing, swap the romaine for kale, and add red onion + air fried chickpeas on top – even the Italians approve!
Lexi Kramer, Holistic Health Coach
No summer get together is complete without pasta salad! With only 9 simple ingredients and seasonings this is sure to be a fan favorite amongst your friends.
Jessica Viola, Health and wellness blogger
