With Memorial Day weekend finally here, many people will be firing up their grills and uncovering their pools for the unofficial kick-off of summer! But before you start cooking, take a look at some of our favorite healthier grilling options below. Consider adding them to your summer barbecue menu to help keep your body in bathing suit shape!
Instead of the standard hot dogs and burgers, try grilling up some of these healthier options:
- Ground Turkey Burgers: Make sure you are using ground turkey breast (white) meat and not dark meat, as white meat contains less fat.
- Pork Tenderloin: A 4 oz. pork chop contains 275 calories and 16 grams of fat, while a 4 oz. pork tenderloin only contains 120 calories with 4 grams of fat.
- Flank Steak: If you want to include some red meat, flank steak is a leaner, less fatty, inexpensive alternative.
- Swordfish: Any fresh fish is a healthier substitute for hot dogs and hamburgers, but swordfish is a very versatile fish that can be prepared many different ways—including on the grill.
- Vegetables: When it comes to vegetables, you can never have too many! Try grilling up some sliced peppers, zucchini and corn on the cob.
- Fruits: Most people don’t think of grilling fruits, but consider adding some fun fruits like peaches, pineapples, and apples to your grilling menu. Try them on a kabob for a yummy, nutritious dessert!
Here are few healthier grilling recipes for you to try out this weekend and all summer long:
Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs: Kabobs are typically easy to prepare and fun to eat. This recipe incorporates sweet pineapple and tangy chicken!
Pork Tenderloin with Maple-Chipotle Sauce: Add flavor, not fat, to your plate with this delicious take on barbecued pork!
California Turkey Burgers: This west coast take on the classic burger is sure to make your party guests smile.
Grilled Corn with Chipotle-Lime Butter: Corn on the cob is great; kick it up on a notch with this recipe.
Chicken Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions: Sausage peppers and onions—no need for a bun!
Dark Chocolate and Banana S’mores: Need I say more?
If you’re a Health Advocate member with access to the Wellness Coaching program, reach out to your Wellness Coach for more healthy recipe ideas and ways to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals.
