In general, grilling is a healthy cooking method, but it can also take a wrong turn.    How about kicking off the summer and grilling healthy?    We’ll show you how with the following tips. 

Healthy Barbequing Tips

  1. Choose the right meat: stick with lean cuts of meat such as chicken breast, fish, shellfish, pork loin, flank steak, filet mignon or sirloin.
  2. Going with ground?  Skip regular ground beef and opt of extra lean ground beef or even better, lean ground turkey breast.  Now you can have your burger and feel good about what you’re eating!
  3. Look for substitutes: can’t go without sausage or hot dogs?  Try a low-fat alternative such a turkey sausage or veggie dogs.
  4. Add flavor with marinades: marinades add tons of flavor and lend to juicy and tender cuts of meat.  The good news – tons of low-fat marinades are available in the store and in your kitchen!  Try Mrs. Dash marinades for a flavor burst without tons of fat and sodium or whip up your own at home with a little low-sodium broth, soy sauce or wine, fruit juice and spices.  Or, try low-fat Italian dressing for items like veggies, chicken or shrimp.
  5. Don’t forget the veggies!  Throw some veggies on the barbie!  Hearty veggies such zucchini, eggplant, corn, mushrooms and bell peppers taste wonderful grilled and make great toppings for burgers and sandwiches or as a simple side dish.
  6. Make your sides healthy.  Offer an array of healthy sides to round out the meal.  Try a tossed green salad, fruit platter, hummus with fresh veggies and pita triangles and low-fat potato or pasta salad.

Lean Beef Burgers

  • 1 pound of extra-lean ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup onion, minced
  • 1 egg, slightly beaten

 

  1. In a bowl, mix all ingredients together really well.
  2. Divide into four patties.
  3. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, until completely done.
  4. Serve on a bun with all the fixings. (If you want cheese burgers, go for low-fat cheese on your burger)

Enjoy your summer!

 


Please note: The information in this article is not to be followed as
medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your physician
or primary health practitioner for information regarding your own personal
health and necessary treatments.