Memorial Day weekend has arrived and we’re all ready for summer fun to begin. This holiday marks the unofficial start of the summer season. But more importantly, it’s also a time to remember those who have served in our military and paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our country and our freedom. Many Americans commemorate the day with BBQs, picnics and beach trips. To help you stay on track with your weight loss goals this holiday, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite Healthy Memorial Day recipes that everyone will enjoy.
From protein-packed grilled main courses, fresh fruity favorites and patriotic party plates, these 20 Memorial Day cookout ideas are sure to be a hit!
1. Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn >
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 178
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb, ½ PowerFuel and 1 Extra
Corn on the cob is a summer picnic staple. Take it to the next level and save room on the grill and stovetop by making healthy Mexican Street Corn in your air fryer. We even made the creamy Mexican street corn sauce healthy and Nutrisystem-approved! Click here for the full recipe! >
2. Grilled Balsamic Chicken >
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 140
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 2 Extras
Keep grilled chicken simple and savory with an easy marinade. We perfected this balsamic marinade that includes olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic and black pepper. Click here for the full recipe! >
3. Greek Orzo Summer Salad >
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 276
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb, ½ PowerFuel, 1 Extra and 1 Vegetable
Healthy pasta salad recipes are essential to your list of Memorial Day cookout ideas. This seasonal summer salad is colorful, flavorful and different than any other pasta salad recipes that will be at the BBQ. Click here for the full recipe! >
4. 5-Ingredient Patriotic Cheesecake >
Servings: 10
Calories per Serving: 175
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 3 Extras
Who knew that you would only need five ingredients to make a creamy, dreamy cheesecake dessert? This healthy Memorial Day cake recipe includes the colors of the flag and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Try turning the berries into an American flag design if you have some extra time! Click here for the full recipe! >
5. Caprese Turkey Burger >
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 282
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 2 PowerFuels
It’s burger season! If you’re stocking up on burger recipes for a Memorial Day BBQ, this Caprese Turkey Burger is one that everyone will love. Click here for the full recipe! >
6. Healthy Fruit Salad >
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 93
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and ½ Extra
Healthy Memorial Day recipes and cookout ideas should involve fresh fruit and grilled proteins. This Healthy Fruit Salad recipe checks off the first box and pairs perfectly with all of your BBQ main courses. Click here for the full recipe! >
7. Cedar Plank Salmon >
Servings: 4 (1 serving = 4 oz.)
Calories per Serving: 161
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels
A cedar plank makes grilling fish easy (and more delicious!). Simply add spices to your salmon, throw it on a soaked cedar plank and grill for 14 to 18 minutes. Click here for the full recipe! >
8. 4-Ingredient Dill Pickle Egg Salad >
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 188
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels and 1 Extra
A tasty twist on a classic BBQ side dish, our simple Dill Pickle Egg Salad recipe for Memorial Day requires just four ingredients: Eggs, pickles, dried dill and mayo. Click here for the full recipe! >
9. Healthy Non-Alcoholic Strawberry Daiquiri >
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 55
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb
Toast to the start of summer with this refreshing and fruity mocktail recipe. All you need is fresh and frozen strawberries, water and lime juice for this blended beverage. Click here for the full recipe! >
10. Marinated Steak Kebabs >
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 183
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel, 1 Vegetable and 2 Extras
Tender, juicy steak shines in this protein-packed main course that you need for your holiday cookout. These easy skewers also provide fiber with baby potatoes, red onions and bell peppers. Click here for the full recipe! >
11. Must-Try Strawberry Pie >
Servings: 8
Calories per Serving: 132
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra
Memorial Day desserts must include a sweet strawberry surprise! Our strawberry pie recipe is a must-try, with its graham cracker crust and fresh and fruity filling. Click here for the full recipe! >
12. Creamy Cauliflower “Potato Salad” >
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 107.8
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 2 Vegetables
Enjoy creamy potato salad with a twist! Cauliflower florets are the base of this healthy “potato salad recipe” that’s low carb and super delicious. Click here for the full recipe! >
13. Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs >
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 219
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels and 1 Extra
Add this marinated grilled chicken to your line-up of Memorial Day Cookout ideas! Tender chicken thighs are infused with citrus juices, olive oil and a blend of savory spices. Click here for the full recipe! >
14. American Flag Fruit Tray >
Servings: 8
Calories per Serving: 110
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 2 Extras
This American Flag Fruit Tray is an impressive addition to your healthy Memorial Day menu. Assorted red, white and blue fruit creates a beautiful American flag that’s the perfect centerpiece for your picnic table. White chocolate dipped banana slices make this tray extra special. Click here for the full recipe! >