With summer right around the corner, it is time to head outside and scrub down the grill. As you plan your first barbecue, here are some delicious and healthy tips to impress your family and friends. When choosing meats, keep these tips in mind: - Select white-meat poultry or lean cuts of red meat (sirloin, flank, or tenderloin) in small portion sizes (3oz, about the size of a deck of cards)
- Trimming fat off meat and removing skin from chicken will help lower calories and fat content
There are a variety of marinades that will add great flavor to any meat you choose to grill. There are many different ways to keep marinades low in fat and sodium content, while keeping their bold flavor.
- Try fat-free salad dressings, low-sodium soy sauce, or lemon juice
- With fish, place fillets on/in foil along with lemons, vegetables or your choice or herbs and cook until it flakes easily
- Baste chicken with barbecue sauce, orange juice or even olive oil to keep it moist and juicy
Side items are an important part of summer barbecues! There are several healthy alternatives to high fat potato salad that will keep fat and sodium content low.
- Grilled vegetables are delicious and easy! Try grilling corn on the cob, peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. These vegetables can be marinated along with your meat of choice and put on a kabob for easy serving
- Instead of adding mayonnaise to your favorite potato salad recipe, use mustard or yogurt to lower fat content. To add flavor, get creative! Add sodium-free seasonings or fresh herbs
- Fruit salad is always an easy, delicious dish that will keep you cool on a hot summer day. Pack it in your cooler alongside plenty of ice to keep it crisp and fresh
