Memorial Day BBQ Makeovers

Memorial Day = BBQ

It's just common knowledge, but that doesn't mean it has to be Calorie Fest '09. Here are some great ways to make your BBQ healthy and delicious!

On the grill:
-go for lean meats or fish instead of beef which tends to be higher in fat and calories
-make kebabs with meat and veggies
-use Boca burgers or veggie patties instead of hamburgers
-use 97% fat free hot dogs
-when choosing chicken go with the skinless option to cut out unwanted calories
-use low cal salsa's (click here for a great recipe), try new spices, or marinades that aren't fat based to flavor
-Grill your veggies too! Try THIS recipe for Grilled Asparagus Rafts.
-use wheat buns instead of white
-wrap your meat in large lettuce leaves instead of using buns if you're going low-carb

On the side:
-fruit and veggie trays are ALWAYS popular. Who doesn't love cold, crisp, cut up watermelon?
-make a fresh green salad...use whatever veggies or fruits you can get your hands on and make a fresh balsamic dressing to top it off
-buy baked chips instead of regular chips
-hummus and pita bread/pita chips make a great side dish and veggies dipped in hummus is divine as well!
-avoid mayo-based salads (you know the type...grandma's potato salad...prime culprit) they tend to be high in fat and calories
-corn on the cob.....enough said. (p.s. it's on sale 10 ears for $2 @ my fave Sunflower Market right now)
-try some delicious oven baked sweet potato french fries (I love em!)
-take advantage of the fresh fruits and veggies in season!

On the sweet side: meaning dessert of course...
-go for Dreyer's Grand Light Ice Cream/or a nonfat frozen yogurt, instead of the full fat kind
-try a fruity sorbet topped with fresh raspberries and blackberries
-if you're baking a cake or cookies use healthy substitutions
-Fruit! always a good dessert!
-find a lower fat options such as strawberry shortcake or a pudding parfait
-make rootbeer floats with diet root beer and nonfat frozen yogurt
-get creative!

Do something active! Take the time to go for a bike ride, hike, or walk. Involve the whole family in a game of football or steal the flag. Make it fun :)

Just remember Holiday doesn't mean Hay-day. Make smart healthy choices! Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend, and be safe!