Easy and Saludable Labor Day Side Dishes
Before the outdoor parties, barbeques and eating under the stars comes to a close, send off el verano with one last bash that your friends and guests will remember through the cooler seasons. Once the main courses are complete, throw some sure-to-please side dishes into the mix that are both palate-pleasers and heart-healthy options. Here are three side dish recipes to try:
Ceviche Cocktail
The great thing about this Latin American plato is the numerous options of sabores and ingredients you can play around with. It’s a light option that goes with just about anything.
Ingredients:
One pound of sea bass and/or shrimp (adjust depending on party size)
Lime juice (about ¼ cup)
Lemon juice (about ¼ cup)
Orange juice (about ¼ cup)
Chopped red onion
Avocado
1/3 cup of cilantro
Salt
Pepper
Chopped tomato
Chopped cucumber
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions:
Chop the fish and marinate with citrus juice for one hour (fish should be covered). Blend remaining ingredients (minus the avocado) and let marinade in dish or bowl for one hour. Drain and add avocado just before serving. For a fun party idea, serve in individual martini or double shot glasses.
Ajo Corn on the Cob
As you fire up the grill on last time during Labor Day weekend, remember that corn on the cob is a healthy and sweet side dish you can cook all year long. But nothing beats the extra flavor and tenderness from a smoky grill.
Ingredients:
Yellow corn (for a sweeter taste)
Butter or butter substitute
Garlic
Directions:
Shuck the corn, rinse it and soak it in a pot of water for about 30 minutes. While the corn is soaking, sauté the garlic clove for 30 seconds over medium heat -- don’t let it brown. Take corn out of water, and wrap it in tin foil with a light covering of butter and the sautéed garlic, chopped. Place the wrapped corn on the grill for 10 to 15 minutes, turning once during the grilling process. Unwrap and serve. Like some heat? Sprinkle red pepper flakes on the corn with the garlic.
Grilled Fresh Fruit Salad
Forget the fresh fruit salad mamá makes, and try this easy and unique spin, since your grill is already in use.
Ingredients:
Variety of firmer fruit, such as pineapple, apple, pear, banana and cantaloupe.
Cooking oil
Water
Directions:
Cut fruit down the middle, and spray lightly with cooking oil. Grill to desired doneness, about 3 minutes to avoid a mushy mess. Add honey or brown sugar for added sweetness to your grilled fresh fruit salad.
