By Sarah Lohm, Dietetic Intern

The Fourth of July is one of summer’s favorite celebrations, and we’ve rounded up a few recipes to help make your holiday menu a little easier. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a neighborhood cookout, or bringing a dish to share, these are simple, seasonal options full of fresh summer flavor!

The holiday is meant to be filled with the foods you look forward to all year—from burgers and potato salad to chips and dessert. There’s room for all of your favorites, and adding a few fresh, colorful, and protein-packed dishes is just an easy way to round things out and feel good throughout the day. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, these recipes make it simple to add a little balance to your table—without sacrificing any of the fun.

A Few Recipes We’ll Be Making This Fourth!

Rainbow Veggie Pasta Salad

Our Rainbow Veggie Pasta Salad is a summertime favorite! In the abundance of pasta salad recipes out there, there’s something so special about the simplicity of this specific blend of ingredients – making it the perfect last-minute potluck-packable! Get the full recipe here!

Cherry Caprese Pasta Salad

Our Cherry Caprese Pasta salad brings the perfect mix of sweet cherries, creamy mozzarella, spicy arugula, and balsamic glaze is perfection. When it comes to summer salads, this one’s a winner. Get the full recipe here!

Lemon Primavera Pasta Salad

This lemon pasta salad is light, fresh, and full of bright flavor. It’s easy to throw together and is the perfect light addition to any backyard spread. Try doubling the recipe for easy lunch meal prep for the week! Get the full recipe here!

Asparagus, Tomato, and Feta Salad

This Asparagus, Tomato, and Feta Salad is a healthy and refreshing vegetarian recipe that is loaded with fresh chopped veggies and tossed in a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette. This is the perfect last-minute BBQ plus one! Get the full recipe here!

Black Bean Veggie Salad

This Black Bean Veggie Salad is a fresh, flavorful addition to any Fourth of July menu. It’s an easy dish to bring to a cookout or picnic and works well alongside classic summer barbecue dishes! Get the full recipe here!

Garden Quinoa Salad

This Garden Quinoa Salad is a fresh, hearty option that feels right at home on a Fourth of July table. Packed with seasonal vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, it’s a great make-ahead dish to bring to a cookout or enjoy as a light, satisfying side alongside summer favorites. Get the full recipe here!

Simple Healthy Egg Salad

This Simple Healthy Egg Salad is quick, simple, and a great make-ahead lunch that you can eat throughout the week. Packed with protein, this salad fills you up for hours, while also tasting light and fresh! Serve this recipe in a variety of ways, including on top of whole grain bread, a bed of lettuce, or with a side of veggies and crackers. The serving options are endless! Get the full recipe here!

Grilled Caprese Zucchini Boats

When it comes to summer side dishes, this one’s a winner. It is perfect to serve as a side for lunch, dinner, or to bring to your next social event! Best of all? This recipe involves minimal cooking and can be assembled quickly. You’ll definitely want to save this recipe and try out this uniquely delicious combination of flavors and textures yourself! Get the full recipe here!

Southwest Turkey Burgers

This Southwest Turkey Burgers recipe is so flavorful and filling! Packed with spices and a hint of heat your mouth will be watering after the first bite! You can enjoy it as a traditional burger with sweet potato fries on the side, or enjoy them on a salad for a lighter, lower carb meal. This recipe also pairs well with a non-lettuce based side salad such as our Black Bean Veggie Salad. It is a family favorite no matter how you serve it! Get the full recipe here!

High Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip

Is it a holiday without buffalo chicken dip?! Our fan-favorite comes together with just a few simple ingredients and is the perfect shareable for any gathering—so why not bring it to your Fourth of July festivities? Get the full recipe here!

Lemon Poppyseed Energy Bites

I’ve been a fan of energy balls for years, and they still top the list of meal prep recipes for me. I usually make some sort of energy bite every week, and these Lemon Poppyseed Energy Bites are perfect for summertime and a great make-ahead option to bring to your Fourth of July cookout or enjoy throughout the holiday weekend. Get the full recipe here!

Frozen Greek Yogurt Bark

These Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars are a refreshing, make-ahead treat that belong on any Fourth of July table. Light and creamy with just the right amount of sweetness, they’re an easy way to end a summer cookout on a cool note alongside your other favorites! Get the full recipe here!

Good food is one of the best parts of any Fourth of July celebration. Whether you’re bringing a dish to share or planning the entire menu, we hope these recipes inspire you to add a little freshness to your holiday table while still enjoying all of your favorite traditions. Wishing you a fun, safe, and delicious Fourth of July!