4th of July Cookouts and Staying Healthy!

Healthy Salad for those not so healthy cookouts!

So the 4th of July is upon us, and that means you will probably be invited to some cookouts with friends!  This is great, but it can also be detrimental to your diet if you are not careful and prepared! So if you are the host of the cookout or an invited guest bringing a side, this is one recipe that packs plenty of vegetables and color to leave you feeling satisfied and it's quick and easy!

First, choose a vinegar option that you like.  That can be red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.  For the pictures that follow I used white wine vinegar, but I also love all of the other options.  If you want a stronger taste go with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.  Take a large to-go container and add in 1/4 cup of the vinegar of your choice.  Then add in 1/4 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  I also added in 4 tablespoons of honey because I wanted that sweet and sour taste. If you are not a fan of the sweet and sour taste just eliminate the honey!  Add in a teaspoon of salt and some fresh ground pepper to taste.  Then use a whisk to combine.  Mine looked like the picture you see below.

Now it is time to add some bright color to your mix!  I first began with zucchini and my Veggetti! Yes it sounds inappropriate, but it has become my go to kitchen utensil. I got mine off Amazon, but you can check them out here.

1.  Use the Veggetti to create zucchini noodles (I used two small zucchini for this salad)

2.  Cut up some baby carrots, about a half of a bag (Mine were cut length wise but you can do yours however you like.)

3.  Dice up 1/2 of a red onion

4.  Dice up two Roma tomatoes (You can also use grape tomatoes and cut in half if you like.)

5.  Cut up one head of broccoli florets

After all vegetables are prepped, place into your oil and vinegar mix and toss. It will look beautiful and colorful like the picture you see below.

Refrigerate for a few hours or over night is even better!

I also enjoy topping mine with a few tablespoons of Feta cheese to really pack that sweet and sour punch!

Take this to your next 4th of July Party and have this on the side of your chicken breast or burger.  I think you will feel much better eating this than loading up on chips and did or perhaps fries!  Your body will thank you too!