9 skewer recipes that are equal parts easy, pretty, and tasty

Labor Day weekend means staying outside as long as possible to soak up every remaining second of summer. So, obviously, an alfresco dining situation is in order, and there’s nothing like a skewer that says, “I’m fresh, healthy, and colorful—snap a pic of me and then eat me up.”

Not only are skewers easy on the eyes, but since they’re so simple to prepare (and clean up), you can probably sneak in a fun outdoor workout to your barbecue gathering.

Sufficiently convinced that you need some skewer recipes for your weekend cookout? Look no further—we rounded up the easiest and prettiest ones around.

Here are 9 yummy skewer recipes to try.

1. Guacamole Skewers

It seems like there’s not a soul in the world who doesn’t like guacamole. It’s one of those greatest-hits party snacks—but beware of those double-dippers—ew!) This deconstructed, cilantro-sauce topped guacamole skewer is both a problem solver and people pleaser.

2. Honey Soy Garlic Vegetable Skewers

Want to elevate that barbecue favorite, corn on the cob? Try this version, which includes zucchini, eggplant, tomato, and garlic.

3. Vegan Satay With Peanut Sauce

This combination includes veggies and tofu marinated in a Thai-style coconut sauce. The peanut and lime dipping sauce sounds good enough to drink on its own.

4. Grilled Ratatouille Kebabs

Ratatouille is what you need when you want everything good about the summer harvest in one bite. This recipe has eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, and portobello mushrooms. And the tomato? It’s the pasta sauce you’ll use as a dip for your skewer.

5. Frozen Fruit Skewers

This is the easiest way to make it seem like you spent a ton of time prepping for the party when in actuality, your 30 minutes of chopping work led to a few hours of me-time. The fresh fruit keeps the sweet treat healthy, and the ice factor keep your guests cool.

6. Lemon Oregano Grilled Chicken Skewers With Tzatziki Sauce

There’s something quintessentially summer about Mediterranean food, and with these skewers, all you have to do is close your eyes and enjoy the flavors to feel transported. This preparation is so easy it might end up in your regular dinner rotation—which is great, considering the health benefits of the food genre.

7. Grilled Lemon Curry Shrimp Skewers

This shrimp recipe takes a classic combination of lemon and shrimp and adds some intrigue in the form of green curry paste. The skewers can also be broiled or pan-fried if that’s more your speed.

8. Grilled Apricot Halloumi Skewers With Thyme, Honey, And Pistachios

You heard it first here: The unexpected savory-and-sweet coupling of apricots and halloumi cheese might be the next watermelon and feta.

9. Turkey Skewers With Asian-Style Slaw And Cashew Sauce

Turkey isn’t just for Thanksgiving and deli sandwiches. This Thai-inspired recipe is actually three recipes in one: you get marinated turkey, Asian-style slaw, and a cashew dipping sauce that doubles as a veggie dip.

Want more ideas to complete your barbecue menu? Try this gluten-free, vegan barbecue loaf or this healthy take on coleslaw.