Hosting a party for family or friends is rewarding, and the right preparation can help things go off without a hitch. Check out the suggestions below for meals, sides, desserts, and drinks that both taste good and are good for you. You’re sure to find something that will keep your guests grinning and their smiles healthy! 

Serve up savory proteins 

The main course of a meal is often the primary source of protein. To offer your guests a great-tasting, great-for-you main course, try cooking one these lean protein options: 

• Pork loins and pork chops are high in muscle-building protein. They can also be served without buns, which contain carbohydrates that help the bacteria in your mouth breed.
• Turkey and chicken are lean, juicy protein options that also provide phosphorus, which works with calcium to maintain healthy teeth and bones.
• Black bean dip or a side dish with wild rice are good protein sources for vegetarian guests. Black beans also have calcium to strengthen teeth.

Want a healthy protein that’s surprisingly easy to make? Try this baked salmon recipe!

Prepare fresh fruit and veggies

Make sure your guests have nutrient-rich options by serving fruits and vegetables! Berries and apples are good sources of antioxidants and vitamin C, which supports healthy gum tissue.

You can also offer a healthy, tasty treat in the form of roasted, sauteed, or grilled vegetables:

• Carrots contain you vitamin A to support your tooth enamel and vision health.
• Bell peppers provide vitamin C for gum health.
• Asparagus and other dark greens offer vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium for strong teeth and gums. They also contain phosphorus, which improves your body’s calcium absorption.

This recipe for prosciutto-wrapped asparagus has vitamins A and C, phosphorus, and calcium for healthy teeth and gums.

Pour better beverages

Water is the most smile-friendly beverage, because it has zero sugar and helps wash down remaining foods and drinks to keep your mouth clean. Of course, if you’re hosting a party, you’ll want to add flavor but still avoid cavity risks. Here are a few things you can try:

• Infusing a pitcher of water with seasonal fruits and herbs is a good way to make a flavorful drink without a lot of sugar.
• Serve fruit and vegetable smoothies as a nutritious and flavor-packed dessert.
• Use sugar-free club soda in cocktails and mocktails instead of highly sweetened tonic water.

No matter what your guests are drinking, make sure there’s plenty of water available when they need it. And don’t be afraid to give everyone a friendly reminder that drinking water will wash down alcohol and sugar from their meal, drinks, and dessert.

Be the host with the most smiles

If you’re throwing a holiday party, backyard barbecue, or any other event, you’ll likely serve a mix of healthy items and sweet or savory treats. And that’s perfectly OK — just remember to offer a few oral health-friendly options while you’re at it.