15 Healthy-ish Memorial Day Sides That Still Feel Indulgent

Is your Memorial Day menu weighed down by heavy, mayo-laden dishes that leave you feeling sluggish? 

Traditional sides like potato salad and coleslaw might be crowd-pleasers, but they’re often packed with calories and lacking in nutrients. 

What if you could serve dishes that are lighter yet still deliver on flavor? 

This list of healthy-ish Memorial Day sides offers veggie-packed alternatives that don’t sacrifice the indulgent feel of your favorite classics. Your guests won’t even notice the healthier twist!

🥗 Swap Mayo for Flavor: Lighten Up Classic Dips

Greek Yogurt Dip with a Zesty Kick

Replace mayo with Greek yogurt in your favorite dip recipes. Mix in lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs for a protein-packed alternative that’s perfect for veggies or pita chips. The tangy flavor will have your guests asking for the secret ingredient.

Tip: For an extra crunch, top with everything bagel seasoning or crispy shallots.

🌾 Veggie-Packed Pasta Salad That Doesn’t Disappoint

Power Pasta Salad with a Rainbow of Veggies

Toss whole grain pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, olives, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Add protein with grilled chicken or chickpeas. This colorful salad is nutritious and satisfying.

Trick: Cook pasta in vegetable broth instead of water for an extra flavor boost.

🥔 No-Peel, No-Fuss Healthy Potato Salad

Smashed Potatoes with Herbs and Lemon

Boil red potatoes, smash slightly, and toss with olive oil, fresh herbs, and lemon zest. No mayo needed for this bright, flavorful side that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love.

Hack: Add capers or feta for a Mediterranean twist.

🍎 Watermelon Meets Mint: A Refreshing Surprise

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint

Combine cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. This light, refreshing salad is perfect for hot days and adds a pop of color to your table.

Pro Tip: Freeze watermelon cubes beforehand for a cool, crisp texture.

🫕 Crispy, Guilt-Free Coleslaw Makeover

Apple Cabbage Slaw with Dijon Dressing

Shred cabbage and apples, then toss with a dressing of Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey. This crunchy slaw is naturally sweet and tangy without any mayo.

Secret: Add a handful of sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

🍅 Caprese Salad with a Twist

Caprese Skewers with a Balsamic Drizzle

Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve. These bite-sized appetizers are elegant and incredibly easy to make.

Idea: Use heirloom tomatoes for a beautiful presentation.

🥜 Edamame Salad: Protein-Packed and Fun

Edamame Pasta Salad with Sesame Dressing

Combine shelled edamame with whole grain pasta, snap peas, and carrots. Toss with a sesame-soy dressing. This vibrant salad is packed with plant-based protein.

Tip: Toast sesame seeds before adding to the dressing for extra flavor.

🌶️ Roasted Veggie Platter with Zesty Lemon Tahini

Roasted Rainbow Veggie Platter

Roast zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes until caramelized. Serve with a lemon-tahini dipping sauce. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables shines in this simple yet impressive dish.

Hack: Prepare veggies the night before and roast just before serving.

🍋 Avocado-Lime Corn Salad

Creamy Corn Salad Without the Cream

Toss grilled corn kernels with diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with chili powder. The creamy avocado replaces traditional mayo for a lighter, fresher taste.

Pro Tip: Grill corn in the husk for extra smoky flavor.

🍓 Fruit Salad with a Grown-Up Twist

Boozy Fruit Salad with Citrus Sparkle

Mix seasonal fruits with a splash of orange liqueur and fresh mint. This fruity side is refreshing and has a hint of sophistication.

Idea: Freeze grapes and berries beforehand to keep the salad cool without diluting flavors.

🌽 Stuffed Mini Peppers: Colorful and Delicious

Mini Bell Peppers Stuffed with Quinoa and Cheese

Halve mini bell peppers and stuff with a mixture of cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, feta, and herbs. Bake until tender. These bite-sized delights are both colorful and satisfying.

Hack: Use a variety of colored peppers for a beautiful presentation.

🍪 Healthy-ish Macaroni Salad Makeover

Whole Grain Macaroni Salad with Mustard Dressing

Use whole grain pasta and dress with a mixture of Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey. Add celery, red onion, and tuna for protein. This lighter version still delivers on comfort.

Tip: Chill the pasta in ice water after boiling to prevent sogginess.

🌿 Spinach and Artichoke Dip Lightened Up

Greek Yogurt Spinach Artichoke Dip

Combine canned artichoke hearts, frozen chopped spinach, Greek yogurt, and garlic. Blend until smooth and warm gently. Serve with veggie dippers. All the flavor with less guilt!

Secret: Add a splash of white wine for depth of flavor.

🥖 Cucumber Salad with Dill and Yogurt

Quick Cucumber Salad with Fresh Dill

Slice cucumbers thin, toss with chopped dill, mint, and a light yogurt dressing. This cooling salad is perfect for hot days and comes together in minutes.

Idea: Use a mandoline for evenly sliced cucumbers.

🍳 Everything Bagel Potato Chips

Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoned Potatoes

Slice potatoes thin, toss with everything bagel seasoning, and bake until crispy. These addictive chips are healthier than store-bought and incredibly easy to make.

Pro Tip: Bake at a high temperature (400°F) for maximum crispiness.

🎉 Memorial Day made healthier doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor!

These 15 sides prove that with a few smart swaps and creative twists, you can serve dishes that are both nutritious and delicious. Your guests will enjoy the familiar comfort of classic sides without the heavy aftermath.

Try 2-3 of these recipes this Memorial Day and watch them disappear! Share your favorite healthy side dish in the comments below and tag us in your Memorial Day spread photos. Let’s make this holiday both healthy and indulgent!