Healthy Bar-B-Q Ideas
- katietrinder
- Jun 18, 2024
- 2 min read
I live in hope that at some point, the weather will improve and we will once again be able to start entertaining people in the garden. So just in case, that does happen, here's some healthy bar-b-q ideas, so that you can still enjoy yourself and stay on plan.
Lean Protein Options
Grilled Chicken Breast: Marinate in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful and healthy option.
Turkey Burgers: Use ground turkey mixed with spices and herbs. Serve with whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps.
Fish Fillets: Salmon, tilapia, or mahi-mahi are great options. Season with a bit of olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Shrimp Skewers: Marinate in a light garlic and lemon sauce, then grill on skewers.
Vegetarian Options
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, and asparagus are excellent for grilling. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Portobello Mushrooms: These can be marinated and grilled as a hearty alternative to meat burgers.
Tofu or Tempeh: Marinate in a soy sauce-based marinade and grill until crispy on the outside.
Side Dishes
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush with a bit of olive oil and season with chili powder and lime for a flavorful twist.
Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette.
Fruit Salad: Combine a variety of fresh fruits such as berries, melon, and citrus fruits for a refreshing side.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, season with olive oil, paprika, and garlic powder, and grill until tender.
Healthy Sauces and Marinades
Yogurt-Based Sauces: Use Greek yogurt as a base for sauces and dressings, adding herbs and spices for flavor.
Homemade Salsa: Fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice make a tasty and healthy topping for grilled meats.
Pesto: A blend of fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and a bit of Parmesan can add a burst of flavor to grilled items.
Dessert
Grilled Fruit: Pineapple, peaches, and bananas are delicious when grilled. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Fruit Kebabs: Skewer a mix of your favorite fruits and grill lightly for a sweet, healthy treat.
Tips for Healthier BBQ
Choose Lean Cuts of Meat: Opt for cuts with less fat and trim any visible fat before grilling.
Watch Portions: Serve smaller portions of meat and balance your plate with plenty of vegetables.
Avoid Sugary Marinades: Use marinades that are low in sugar and avoid high-sugar BBQ sauces.
Control the Flame: Grill over medium heat to avoid charring, which can produce harmful compounds.
Stay Hydrated: Offer plenty of water, infused with fruits or herbs for added flavor, or opt for a spirit with a low calorie mixer.
What do you always serve at your bar-b-qs?
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