14 dishes and desserts to take to your next party or BBQ

We’ve all been in that dilemma about what to bring with you to a dinner party. The easy option is a bag of unhealthy chips or cheese and crackers, but these snacks aren’t healthy choices while on a weight loss plan.

Cassie McKay has found the perfect snacks and desserts to make and take with you when you’re going over to a friend’s party or BBQ. Best of all they are all HEALTHY and from The Healthy Mummy App.

“I’ve put together this list of snacks, salads, and desserts that are easy to prepare and would be great to take to a party – even if you haven’t been asked to bring a thing,” she says.

14 dishes and desserts to take to your next summer party

“The weather is warming up – so it is inevitable that you will be invited to BBQs and other social gatherings where you may be asked to bring a plate,” says Cassie.

“It also means that temptation will be everywhere. Social gatherings are a weakness of mine. I start out strong, then start picking and don’t stop eating until it is time to go home.

“I know I don’t want to undo all of my hard work this summer, so I will be taking healthy plates to share. Who knows, I may even convert a few people to The Healthy Mummy along the way!”

1. Antipasto platter

A really simple way to put together a wholesome lunch is by creating a mixed platter like this one. It includes a little bit from each of the main food groups to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need. This platter is 292 calories per serve.

These are all the rage at the moment and oh so easy to prepare.

You can find the recipe in The Healthy Mummy App.

2. Sun-dried tomato gnocchi stacks

This gnocchi recipe is a great healthy snack for entertaining friends or taking to a summer party or barbecue. These are 89 calories per serve.

3. Savoury pikelets

Not only do these look great but by making them small they can easily be eaten with one hand.

You can find this recipe here. 

4. Mexican layer dip

This can be served on a platter with rice crackers, plain corn chips and/or veggie sticks. Everyone will be begging you for the recipe. This recipe is 208 calories per serve.

Get this recipe here.

5. Veggie packed sausage rolls

Sausage rolls are always a hit at a party. They can be eaten hot or cold. Nobody will even know they’re getting a serve of veggies. These sausage rolls are 80 calories per serve. 

You can find this recipe here.

6. Pumpkin, feta and chorizo salad

This simple salad recipe is sure to be a winner! It can be serve warm or cold, it’s packed with flavour and it tastes amazing.

This recipe is only 259 calories per serve.

You can find this recipe here.

7. Dip and veggie sticks

Dips are often put in the ‘unhealthy’ basket due to two main factors; the ingredients used and what they’re served with.

Sure, a combo that includes lots of cheese or sour cream and other high-calorie ingredients isn’t going to be very good for your healthy eating plan or waistline, nor is a plate full of chips as an accompaniment.

However, with the right mix of ingredients and the right ‘dippers’, a dish of dip can actually be a fantastic, low-fat, energy-boosting snack.

Check out these dip recipes.

8. Marinated fish skewers

If you’re headed to a barbecue, prep these before you go and have the host cook them to share. 

Fish can often be a challenge with children and husbands. Turn that challenge around with these easy, delicious marinated fish skewers that are a hit with family members of all ages. These skewers work out at 220 calories per serve.

See the recipe here.

9. Mint choc bubble crunch

The kids will go crazy for this dessert… We suggest making a double batch!

Check out this recipe here.

10. Bliss balls

These would be great packaged in a cute jar as a thank you gift to the host. 

Not only can you make these cute bliss balls without turning on the oven, they’re also a fabulous, weight loss friendly healthy sweet treat.

See these bliss ball recipes we love!

11. Weet-Bix slice

This wouldn’t be a list of top recipes without it! It’s totally yummy and full of guilt-free chocolatey goodness. And at only 170 calories per serve, you can enjoy it while taking part in our 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge!

Get this recipe here.

12. Chocolate dipped strawberries

These are easy to prepare are low in calories but taste so indulgent. Plus, they’re only 150 calories!

This recipe is available for Challenge members in The Healthy Mummy App.

13. Pretzels with chocolate dipping sauce

This is a match made in heaven! A super quick treat with a taste of savoury and sweet. The kids will love these, and they’re only 234 calories per serve.

This recipe is available for Challenge members in The Healthy Mummy App.

14. Sweet potato & lentil veggie rolls

These delicious, vegetarian “sausage” rolls are the perfect BYO recipe to help boost your intake of vegetables without sacrificing flavour!

This recipe is available for Challenge members in The Healthy Mummy App.