Easy and Healthy Labor Day Cookout Ideas and Recipes

By Andrea Cohen
Published 8/20/2025
In This Article
Easy and Healthy Labor Day Cookout Ideas and Recipes
Photo Credit: iStock

Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a cookout? If you’re among the many people enjoying this common holiday pastime, you may be looking for some easy Labor Day cookout ideas to make the celebration tasty and fun – and we’ve got you covered!

Labor Day weekend gatherings are a time to relax, connect with friends and family, and fire up the grill.  Greasy burgers, indulgent side dishes, and sweet desserts usually all make their way to the table. But if you’re aiming for a healthier celebration this year, you can do so without losing any of the flavor or missing out on holiday favorites. Our healthy Labor Day recipes, from light appetizers and delicious side dishes to mouthwatering mains and refreshing desserts, help you build a menu that keeps everyone happy while you can feel good knowing you’re offering healthier fare.

Healthy Labor Day Cookout Recipes

If you’re interested in healthier Labor Day cookout ideas, here are some of our most popular recipes with a healthier spin. Whether you’re hosting the party or bringing a dish to a potluck or picnic, they’re sure to draw rave reviews.

Labor Day Appetizer Recipes

  • Corn and Black Bean Salsa

    Heart Healthy Corn and Black Bean Salsa
    Photo Credit: iStock
    30 mins

    This colorful mix of sweet corn, black beans, lime, and chili powder is fresh and full of flavor. It’s one of those easy cookout recipes everyone can snack on while waiting for the grill to heat up.

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  • Grilled Lime Shrimp

    Heart Healthy Grilled Lime Shrimp
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    30 mins

    Tender shrimp marinated in lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and cumin cook up with a tangy, smoky taste. They’re a light and flavorful Labor Day appetizer that’s perfect for kicking off the meal.

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  • Caprese Skewers

    Heart Healthy Caprese Skewers
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    15 mins

    Juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic are a simple and flavorful app people can easily enjoy while mingling. These fresh skewers are a refreshing addition to any cookout.

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Labor Day Main Dishes

  • Grilled Turkey Burger

    Juicy Turkey Burger Recipe
    Photo Credit: iStock
    45 mins

    Lean turkey with garlic, mushrooms, and herbs stays juicy on the grill. This healthier burger option still feels like a backyard barbecue staple, but with less fat and calories.

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  • Grilled Hot Dogs

    Heart Healthy Grilled Hot Dogs
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    30 mins

    Served in grilled zucchini halves and topped with mango salsa, these hot dogs offer a fresh twist. They’re a fun cookout recipe for anyone looking for lighter versions of classic cookout food.

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  • Grilled Chicken Kebabs

    Heart Healthy Grilled Chicken Kebabs
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    45 mins

    Chunks of chicken and summer veggies soak up a bright orange chile marinade before hitting the grill. They’re colorful and crowd-pleasing, making them one of the best cookout ideas for summer parties.

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Labor Day Side Dishes

  • Veggie Pasta Salad

    Heart Healthy Veggie Pasta Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    30 mins

    Whole grain rotini tossed with peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and a zesty dressing creates a light yet satisfying dish. It’s a make-ahead Labor Day recipe that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.

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  • Grilled Corn on the Cob

    Heart Healthy Grilled Corn on the Cob
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    60 mins

    Corn brushed with herb-infused olive oil and wrapped in husks grills to a smoky, flavorful finish. This is one of those must-have cookout sides that never goes out of favor.

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  • Mediterranean Potato Salad

    Heart Healthy Mediterranean Potato Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    75 mins

    Red and white potatoes with green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, and herbs in a light vinaigrette create a fresh spin on a favorite. It’s a delicious cookout recipe that’s hearty and healthy.

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Labor Day Dessert Recipes

  • Red, White and Blueberry Tart

    Heart Healthy Red, White and Blueberry Tart
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    60 mins

    A creamy Greek yogurt and cream cheese filling is topped with fresh berries and pastry stars for a festive touch. This colorful dessert is made for summer holidays and Labor Day celebrations.

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  • Berry Cheesecake

    Heart Healthy Berry Cheesecake
    Photo Credit: Shutterstock
    45 mins

    Silken tofu, berries, and vanilla create a creamy filling that’s nestled inside a graham cracker crust. This light cheesecake is a sweet ending to a day filled with grilling and cookout fun.

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  • Blueberry Pie

    Heart Healthy Blueberry Pie
    Photo Credit: iStock
    75 mins

    A whole wheat crust holds a fresh blueberry filling topped with pretty pastry cutouts. This pie is a classic summer recipe that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings.

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More Healthy Labor Day Cookout Ideas

Labor Day is about celebrating the end of summer with people you care about, and food is at the heart of it all. With these Labor Day cookout ideas, you can create a menu that’s festive, delicious, and healthier than the usual spread, without sacrificing flavor or fun. In addition to the recipes included here, you can also find ideas for healthier grilling recipes and cookout dishes on these blogs:

Health eCooks Cookbook on Amazon

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