AMBA’s 8 Simple Swaps to Eat a Healthier BBQ
Can a delicious summertime barbecue and a healthy eating plan coexist? BBQs may make you think of hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage, and ribs. But just because you’re firing up the grill doesn’t mean you’re stuck with high-calorie, high-fat choices. Follow AMBA’s steps to make it easy to eat heart-smart choices you’ll love.
AMBA’s tips for a healthier BBQ:
- Want to avoid the high-fat content of hamburgers while still enjoying all that juicy flavor? Choose low-fat beef, turkey, or veggie burgers instead. To add flavor, experiment with seasonings and top with grilled onions, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
- Need your cheese fix? Add a small amount inside the burger instead of smothering it on top. You’ll still enjoy that cheesy taste but with less fat.
- Skinless chicken breasts and pork tenderloin are excellent alternatives to red meat. Grill until cooked through, then lightly brush with your sauce of choice.
- Want to enjoy the flavor without the fat? Choose turkey or chicken sausage.
- Fish like salmon, skewered shrimp, and swordfish are great grilling options.
- Marinades add flavor and tenderize leaner cuts of meat. Experiment with olive oil, mustard, vinegar, fresh herbs, garlic, teriyaki or soy sauce, or hot pepper flakes.
- Vegetables such as corn, eggplant, zucchini, portobello mushrooms, and peppers are grill favorites. Coat with olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper before tossing on the grill rack.
- Don’t forget dessert! Grilled pineapple rings, peach halves, or watermelon wedges are delightful guilt-free dessert alternatives.
Do you have a recipe or another healthy alternative recommendation to share?
