With barbeques and grilling aplenty, ‘tis the season for skewered foods. Ditch the fork and knife, pile on the fun, and invite some friends to join! We’ve rounded up 12 guilt-free skewer recipes from some of our favorite food bloggers. Nibble on dainty stacks of fruit and cheese or layers of meaty eats; either way these healthy bites stick to your diet.
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12 Easy Summer Skewer Recipes
1. Melon Mozzarella Prosciutto Bites
Elegant antipasto gets infused with delectable saltiness thanks to prosciutto. Wrap the meat around balls of mozzarella and cantaloupe, and drizzle on pesto right as you plate. Two skewers clock in at just 78 calories, so go ahead, have a few. Photo and recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by Daily Burn
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2. Miso Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Expecting vegetarian guests? These Asian-inspired zucchini and tempeh skewers provide potassium, magnesium and protein. As a side, cook up some quinoa and toss with lime juice and toasted sesame seeds. Photo and recipe: Jodi / Happy Hearted Kitchen
3. Greek Salad on a Stick
You might not think of salad as an hors d’oeuvre, but this twist on the nutrient-dense Greek variety is 100 percent finger-friendly. It’s got all the fixins, including tomatoes, feta, olives and cucumbers. For a heartier dish, add chicken breast or salmon. Photo and recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by Daily Burn
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4. Key Lime Grilled Chicken Taco Skewers
Throwing a fiesta has never been so easy. Generously soak cubed chicken in freshly squeezed lime juice and taco seasoning, then throw them on the grill until they’re cooked through. Whip up some guacamole as a side to keep with the Tex-Mex theme. Photo and recipe: Whitney / Little Leopard Book
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5. Tequila Glazed Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients from south of the border put a boozy spin on these seafood skewers. Be sure to refrigerate the marinade for at least 20 minutes before you start grilling so the shrimp soaks up the lime flavor. Photo and recipe: Perry Santanachote/ Life by Daily Burn
6. Balsamic Caprese Bites
Salty mozzarella and sour tomato are a summertime power duo. Make these easy apps when you don’t feel like turning on the oven. Pro tip: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top just before serving so the basil leaves don’t wilt. Photo and recipe: Kelly / Eat Yourself Skinny
7. Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce
Satisfy party guests and picky kids with this healthier take on a popular Indonesian dish. A coconut milk marinade will add complex aromas that complement the peanut dip sauce. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote/ Life by Daily Burn
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8. Grilled Pesto Salmon Kebabs
There’s nothing fishy about getting a hearty dose of omega-3s, protein and amino acids! Simple seasoning is just enough when paired with a homemade four-ingredient pesto sauce. Grill the skewered cubes up for one minute per side, and they’re ready to eat in no time. Photo and recipe: Emily Miller / Life by Daily Burn
9. Chimichurri Beef Kebabs
You’ll be pleasantly satisfied after a bite of these Whole 30-approved kebabs. Made with chunks of meat, bell peppers, onion and zucchini, it’s a dinner that’s truly filling. Fresh parsley and cilantro are the base of the deliciously flavorful chimichurri sauce that serves as a marinade for the steak. Photo and recipe: Melissa and Dallas Hartwig / The Whole 30
10. Dark Chocolate Banana Pops
In the mood for a decadent treat? The sweetness of bananas make them a perfect alternative to heavy ice cream. Grab some popsicle sticks, and top your ‘naners with chocolate, nuts and coconut for an added crunch. Photo and recipe: Jessica / Fab Fit Mommy
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11. Strawberry Shortcake Skewers
Stack biscuits and fruit onto sticks for an update on an old-fashioned dessert — minus all the excess calories and fat. For an even lighter bite, we recommend substituting Greek yogurt for a portion of the heavy cream. Photo and recipe: Karen / Karen in the Kitchen
12. Patriotic Fruit Skewers
Plate your American pride with healthy skewers that will put a sweet touch on your gathering. They’re so easy that kids can help assemble them. Chill in the fridge or serve immediately. Photo and recipe: Ramona / Curry and Comfort
Originally published June 2014. Updated June 2017.