Summer cookout

4 Tasty Ideas To Keep Your Summer Cookouts Healthy

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Summer and cookouts just seem to go together.

 

We enjoy cooking out and this year we found the grill of all grills for our family and are trying our best to learn how to use it. Who knew grilling could be so hard.

 

 

Our family enjoys getting together throughout the summer and lighting up the grill for some delicious grilled smoked sausages, chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob. Of course, we throw in some grilled onions, zucchini and squash – need to keep this healthy. Oh, I forgot the grilled watermelon and fresh peaches – you should try some.

 

And now we have a grill that can hold it all. Sweet 🙂

 

There’s nothing better than family, friends and lots of summertime food.

 

The problem with all of this wonderful food is that most of the dishes aren’t very healthy; which may leave you to snack on a carrot stick or a broccoli floret, while everyone else is trying to build their hamburger tower or piling on the onions, chili and coleslaw for the best hotdog around.

 

You don’t have to be stuck with just the veggie tray.  There are numerous healthy options to choose from during the summer cookout months, so there’s no need to be left out of the fun or go home hungry. 

 

Here are a few of my summer cookout staples…

 

Veggie Burgers

Whether you make them from scratch or buy them premade, veggie burgers give you that summer cookout feel, while avoiding the red meat. These taste great if you put them on a whole grain bun, or even a lettuce wrap if you are gluten sensitive.  Dress it with the typical toppings and condiments, and you won’t even notice the difference.  Delicious!

 

 

 

Cauliflower Potato Salad

We all love potato salad, but many don’t like the calories or nutrient profiles of potatoes. You can now get the texture and love of this summertime favorite for far fewer calories with cauliflower. Just add your favorite potato salad condiments for a delicious flavor profile that mimics the real deal. 

 

Sweet Potato “fries”

The perfect companion for your veggie burger!  Skip the regular french fries and lean towards the healthier option — how about some baked sweet potato ‘fries?’ They have a higher nutrient profile, and since you are baking them, fewer calories!  You can even toss them on the grill for a crispy option to sweet potato fries. 

 

 

 

Shish Kebabs

Shish Kebabs taste great during the summer.  Adding zucchini, squash, red onion and mushrooms make this a deliciously healthy and easy to hold meal.  If you desire animal protein for your Shish Kebabs, try tossing some organic chicken or wild caught shrimp in between your veggie layers.  Drizzle your favorite BBQ sauce on, and you’ve got yourself a delicious and healthy meal. 

 

 

 

Eating healthy through the summer months does not have to be hard.  With just a few minor adjustments, you can turn pretty much any dish into a delicious and healthy meal without skimping out on the flavor at all!

 

So, give these a try at your next cookout, you’ll not be the only one who enjoys these dishes.

 

As an added bonus request your copy of my Healthy Summer BBQ Recipe Book for more delicious ways to enjoy your summer cookout.

 

 

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