Are you preparing for the 4th of July already? Let’s start with a little bit of history about why we celebrate Independence Day in the USA. I am originally from Germany, and observing the 4th of July is new to me. I love the BBQs and fireworks but initially did not know much about this holiday.

Why do we celebrate Independence Day?

The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day, has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution. On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades, and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues. (Wikipedia)

I used to live on a street where every 4th of July, the parents and kids got together and paraded around our block. The kids’ bikes and tricycles were decorated with streamers and tinseled in red, white, and blue. It was a festive sight to see, and everyone was so proud to be part of the parade. I wish I could show you a picture of all of us, but you can imagine it, I am sure.

Now it’s time to plan the BBQ

Most of us enjoy some hamburgers, hot dogs, creamy potato salad, maybe some vegetables on the side, and then there are the desserts we can’t resist.

Can you picture the tables loaded with yummy foods all made with love and mayonnaise?

You don’t have to blow your entire diet in just one day. Choose the things you would regularly eat and a little of the “forbidden” foods.

3 Easy Ways Not To Blow Your Diet In One Day

Simple steps to eat a little bit better:

1 – Grill lots of vegetables

That’s a fantastic way to get in your three servings of vegetables a day. Sprinkle on a little olive oil and fill our plate mostly with those mixed vegetables.

2 – Make Kebabs with chicken and vegetables mixed

Or throw your vegetables together with some chicken or beef pieces. Putting them on skewers will make portion control easier. You can involve the whole family in helping to skewer the food.

3 – Mix berries with a small amount of ice cream

Choose mostly fruit and top it off with some ice cream (but just a little) If you crave the traditional cake, take just a little and add more fruit on the side.

As you know, I am not the chef in our house and usually do the cleanup work. I love cleaning up (I can see you smile) and keeping everything in order. I know, so German.

I know my tips are simple, but they work, and if you are the person in charge of preparing the dishes for the BBQ, you might want some more ideas. So I googled the healthier version and my favorite recipes and added them to this blog for you to perhaps try out. This way, you won’t blow your diet this year.

Some healthy meal ideas for the 4th of July that I love!

Chicken Drumsticks with Bourbon BBQ Sauce (finger-licking good)

BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Coleslaw (OMG, this is yummy)

Grilled blackberry, strawberry, and brie pizza strips (please invite me over)

Strawberry Ice  Dream Pie (maybe just a little slice)

Berry Sangria (no sugar added)

It’s not an all-or-nothing eating day, but remember why we celebrate the 4th of July. Make a little healthier choices than you made last year, and you will have no regrets or a tummy ache.

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