Backyard barbecues are traditionally seen as times for splurging on your diet and eating whatever you want, as we’ve all become accustomed to the expectations of fatty baby back ribs, juicy burgers, and succulent hot dogs with all the toppings. However, just because you’re standing outside using a fire and grill to cook your food, doesn’t mean it has to be utterly unhealthy. In fact, there are probably several dozen healthy grilling recipes that you’ve never even considered. While we could get rather fancy with such suggestions, we’ll keep it simple and recommend four basic barbecue components you can build a healthy and delicious meal around.
1. Uncured Hot Dogs
Conventional hot dogs typically contain pork and are cured using a process that incorporates the use of artificial nitrates and nitrites. Uncured hot dogs are usually preserved within organic solutions such as celery powder or celery juice. Furthermore, an uncured hot dog will usually be made with all-natural ingredients such as organically raised meats and organic spices. When opting for this kind of dog, it’s good to go for brands that use USDA Organic certified and antibiotic-free beef or turkey.
2. Turkey Burgers
You might be skeptical about turkey’s ability to compete with beef on a burger bun, but you’d be surprised how similar the two can taste once you’ve added all the condiments. Slap on some green lettuce and a few plump tomato slices and your taste buds definitely won’t be complaining. Not surprisingly, turkey burgers have a lower fat content because it’s a leaner meat, so this is a good option for someone who wants a burger without the excess calories and messy grease.
3. Chicken Sausages
Chicken sausages are lean yet highly flavorful and are available in a variety of interesting flavors that you can’t even find in regular sausages. Although these will usually cost a few dollars more than the usual beef and pork franks, the meats used are much easier to digest and are usually derived from premium cuts. There’s been an explosion of new chicken sausage flavors on the market as well, so you might even find a new favorite sausage flavor during your next trip to the grocery store.
4. Vegetarian Shish Kabobs
Vegetable kabobs are already present at most barbecues, but you can really take this concept to the next level by trying out different ingredient combinations. A simple web search will lead you to dozens of veggie kabob options that are easy and affordable to make. For starters, grilled fajita vegetable skewers and balsamic grilled veggie kabobs are two crowd favorites that never fail to impress.
Indulging While Dieting
As you can see, being on a diet doesn’t necessarily mean you have to sit out on an upcoming family barbecue. In fact, you could wind up being the highlight of the evening with your diet-friendly additions to the grill. The aforementioned suggestions are sure to be a hit in any backyard barbecue. So don’t be shy about bringing your newfound recipes to the table.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
