Shape Up Your BBQ

Memorial Day signals the start of one of the tastiest times of the year – BBQ season.  Here are a few tips to keep your BBQ spread in great shape all summer long.

Beverage:

Try to go with water when possible.   Tradition may dictate homemade root beer once in a while, but anytime you can avoid drinking your calories, it’s a win.

On the grill:

Meats –  Grilled meats can have elevated levels of carcinogens, so avoid excessive charring or burning, and when possible marinate your meat, poultry, etc. since the marinade will help prevent the formation of these harmful substances.

Veggies – Don’t forget to toss some veggies on the grill (marinades work great here as well).  Swapping out a portabella mushroom cap for a burger patty is amazingly delicious.  If grilling helps you increase your intake of produce – bring it on!

Sides:

When it comes to salads and side dishes, remember to keep cool things cool and hot things hot.  You don’t want food poisoning to be the hallmark of your BBQ. 

Again – up the veggie and fruit content. 

Selecting seasonal produce will ensure delicious dishes while keeping nutrition high and calories low. 

Dessert:

Think fruit.  Whether you’ve got grilled peaches or pineapple topped with some ice cream, or a fruit plate with a salted caramel dip, try to incorporate fruit into your dessert. 

Keep your eye on the clock:

Don’t get so carried away with that killer croquet game that you forget to put your foods back in the fridge.  2 hours is the maximum time you can safely leave foods out. 

With just a few tweaks to some traditional favorites, you can savor BBQ season without sacrificing your own svelte shape.