Healthy Tips for Grilling and Picnics

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the great outdoors with friends and family. But let's face it, traditional BBQ fare of hamburgers, hot dogs, mayonnaise-soaked salads, and potato chips isn't always the healthiest. The good news is, with a few savvy swaps, you can transform your grilling game into a delicious, health-conscious feast all summer long. Here are some sizzling tips for guilt-free grilling.

1. Ditch the Processed Hot Dogs

Instead of reaching for those processed hot dogs, opt for affordable, leaner cuts of beef, chicken, or pork. Marinating these cuts not only helps to tenderize the meat but also infuses it with incredible flavor.

Lean Meat Options:

• Beef: Bottom round roast, Eye of round roast, Tri-tip roast, Flank steak, 95% lean ground beef
• Poultry: Skinless chicken breasts, legs, and thighs, ground turkey or chicken
• Pork: Bone-in pork chops, pork tenderloin
• Fish: Grill salmon and tuna directly, or wrap more delicate fish like tilapia, sole, or catfish in aluminum foil with a spice rub or herbs and lemon for a flavorful packet.

2. Add a Splash of Color

Typical barbecue sides are often bland and colorless – think coleslaw, potato salad, and corn. Spruce up your spread by adding a variety of colorful, nutrient-rich side dishes. Not only will your table look more inviting, but it will also be packed with vitamins and minerals.

Colorful Side Dish Ideas:

• Salads: Mix and match vibrant vegetables and fruits like spinach, carrots, red peppers, beets, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries.
• Roasted/Grilled Vegetables: The natural sweetness of grilled veggies is unbeatable. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings like garlic powder, oregano, or basil.

Vegetables to Grill:

• Large veggies: asparagus, zucchini strips, sweet potato slices, beets, portabella mushrooms, eggplant.
• Smaller veggies: green beans, bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots (use skewers or foil packets).
• For an added twist, place your grilled veggies on a bed of lettuce and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a delectable grilled vegetable salad.

3. Embrace Fresh, Local Ingredients

For the best flavors, choose fresh, local ingredients. Visit your local farmers’ market to pick up fruits and vegetables that are in season and freshly harvested. The quality and taste of these ingredients will shine through in your dishes, making your healthy summer meals even more enjoyable.

By making these simple changes, you can enjoy all the fun of summer grilling without the guilt. So, fire up the grill and get ready for a season of healthy, delicious meals!