It’s summertime, and everyone in your neighbourhood will probably be hosting a cookout, and you know what? You should, too! But what can you make if you’re trying to lose weight or eat healthier? I’ll share ideas for a healthy summer BBQ that everyone will enjoy AND will support your weight and eating goals.
There is no better time for your barbecue to make an appearance than now. Yes, I know you’re probably wondering, “How does serving large chunks of meat and all sorts of fatty foods fit into my healthy meal plan?!”
Barbecue season doesn’t necessarily have to mean weight gain season. In fact, there a lot of barbecue recipes that include healthy ingredients and will keep you right on track with your healthy lifestyle goals.
Let’s go over some pointers you can apply to any party menu.
Tips to Keep in Mind
1. Choose Lean Protein
Let’s start with protein. To help keep the pounds off, stick with lean meats like skinless chicken or turkey. Because a good portion of the fat is in the skin, try cooking without it.
Barbecues aren’t just about the meat, though. Seafood like salmon and shrimp are great options, too. If you’re vegetarian, so are tofu and tempeh.
2. Offer Veggies and Fresh Fruit
When you plan your menu, make sure to include plenty of fresh vegetable and fruit options. Of course, you can serve a salad, but if you want to get a little more adventurous, try grilling zucchini or cauliflower or one of my favourites, grilled pineapple, strawberry, and melon kabobs.
A plate of cut-up fruit or sliced watermelon is always a crowd pleaser and super-simple to put together.
And of course, the old BBQ fave: grilled corn on the cob! Try brushing with olive oil and adding some seasoning like chili powder, instead of butter and salt.
3. Serve Sugar-Free Thirst Quenchers
Skip the store-bought lemonade and make your own lemon water. Simply squeeze fresh lemon juice into a pitcher of water to taste, add ice, and voila! You have a healthy sugar-free thirst quencher. Limes, berries, apples, or cucumbers are also great options for tasty flavoured water.
If you really can’t go without some sweetness, choose honey to add to your drink.
~Build Your Own Plateware Set at Made In Cookware~
Healthy Summer BBQ Recipes
Now that you’re armed with some useful tips, are you ready for some recipes? I thought so!
*Grilled Shrimp and Citrus Vinaigrette Salad*
If you enjoy outdoor grilling and barbeques as much as I do, but you’re tire of the same old hamburgers & hot dogs, then you’ll love this recipe! Fast and easy to prepare, this grilled shrimp and citrus vinaigrette salad recipe is destined to be the hit of any BBQ.
*Virgin Summer Sangria*
This summery non-alcoholic version of the old classic is only 84 calories per serving (you’re welllllcome!), whereas traditional sangria can easily hit 200-300 calories per serving because of the sugar and liquor (and you know you weren’t going to have only 1 serving!).
*Chicken Souvlaki Salad*
This Chicken Souvlaki Salad recipe contains a whopping 48g of protein, which makes up 54% of the meal’s energy source.This meal is made with fresh produce and the chicken breasts are skinless – that way you get to enjoy a healthy chicken meal without worrying about cholesterol and weight gain.
*Peach Pina Colada Ice Cream*
Your delicious grilled meal just isn’t complete without dessert! The downside to ice cream is that it’s often full of sugar and fat…certainly not helpful for a healthy lifestyle! The solution? “Nice Cream!” You don’t even need a fancy ice cream machine to make this healthy treat – all you really need is a frozen banana and a food processor or blender! Quick, easy, healthy, and soooo yummy. What else could you ask for?! This recipe gives you tropical vibes, so take it out to the sunny backyard after your BBQ, close your eyes, and pretend you’re on a resort beach with palm trees gently waving overhead. Paradise!
Want MORE? Don’t forget to check out my Healthy Summer Treat Recipe eBooks
in the Fat Caterpillar Fitness Shop!
Full-colour images with each recipe.
Includes helpful tips and a check-box grocery list to take with you!
*Scrumptious Summer Desserts* – $14.97
Searching for a healthy dessert this summer long weekend? Need something sweet to take to that BBQ? Look no further! You’re bound to find something that will catch your eye and satisfy your sweet tooth in this collection.
Included are a variety of desserts, from crumbles and cakes to popsicles and ‘nice’ creams. All desserts are made with healthier ingredients and omit refined sugars.
Cool down with this collection of inventive and indulgent frozen goodies for kids and adults alike to beat the summer heat, from ice cream and sorbet, to popsicles and protein pops.
Find healthier alternatives to your favourite summer treats. Includes dairy-free, keto, and paleo recipes.
Go forth and party!
With these meal planning tips and healthy summer BBQ recipes, you won’t have any excuse to skip out on family time or the neighbourhood party. You have all the tools you need to create healthy and delicious BBQ meals. So, go ahead and set a date!
Share with us in the comments any recipes you like to serve at your summer parties!