When it comes to potlucks, finding the perfect side dish that is both healthy and delicious can be a challenge. However, with these new twists on classic salads and other favorites, you can bring a guilt - free and mouth - watering option to the table. All of these healthy potluck veggie side dishes come in at under 250 calories, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
Let's start with a refreshing take on the traditional potato salad. Instead of using mayonnaise, which can be high in calories and fat, we'll use a light Greek yogurt dressing. Boil some small new potatoes until tender, then let them cool. In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, a bit of Dijon mustard, minced fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cut the cooled potatoes in half and gently toss them in the dressing. You can also add some chopped red onions and hard - boiled eggs for extra flavor and protein. This potato salad is not only lower in calories but also has a tangy and creamy taste that everyone will love.
Another great option is a unique guacamole. While guacamole is already a healthy choice, we can give it a new twist. Mash ripe avocados with a fork in a bowl. Add diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onions, minced jalapeno peppers (remove the seeds if you don't like too much heat), fresh cilantro, and a splash of lime juice. To make it even more interesting, you can add some cooked black beans and corn. The combination of the creamy avocados, the crunch of the vegetables, and the earthy flavor of the beans and corn creates a delicious and nutritious dip. Serve it with whole - grain tortilla chips or sliced vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers.
Now, let's move on to salads. A kale Caesar salad is a fantastic option. Tear kale leaves into bite - sized pieces and massage them with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice. This helps to break down the tough fibers and makes the kale more tender. In a separate bowl, make a light Caesar dressing by combining Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of anchovy paste (optional). Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss well. You can top it with some croutons made from whole - grain bread for a bit of crunch. This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals from the kale and the protein from the Parmesan, all while keeping the calorie count low.
A quinoa and vegetable salad is also a great addition to any potluck. Cook quinoa according to the package instructions. While the quinoa is cooking, chop up a variety of vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and zucchini. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and the chopped vegetables. Make a simple vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa and vegetables and toss gently. You can also add some feta cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture. Quinoa is a complete protein, and the vegetables add a lot of fiber and nutrients, making this salad a well - rounded and healthy choice.
For a sweet and savory salad, try a watermelon and feta salad. Cut watermelon into cubes and place them in a bowl. Crumble feta cheese over the watermelon and add some fresh mint leaves. Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top. The combination of the sweet watermelon, the salty feta, and the refreshing mint creates a unique and delicious flavor profile. This salad is not only low in calories but also a great way to add some color and freshness to the potluck table.
In conclusion, these healthy potluck veggie side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures while keeping the calorie count in check. Whether you're looking for a classic like potato salad or a more unique option like a watermelon and feta salad, there's something for everyone. So, the next time you're invited to a potluck, don't hesitate to bring one of these delicious and healthy side dishes.
