Question of the Week: Healthy BBQ Ideas

The following question was submitted for discussion on this week's blog posting, "Every year in late May our friends & family has a large BBQ.  Since I'm watching my weight and blood sugar, what types of foods should I eat more of and what foods should I avoid at my BBQ?"

There are plenty of delicious foods and recipes that you can incorporate at a summer BBQ!  Here are some suggestions:

1.  Have a light healthy snack before you attend your BBQ such as a small apple with a tbsp peanut butter.  This will keep you from being famished by the time you get to your BBQ and help you from wanting to reach for chips and pretzels!

2. Skip the chips and mayonaisse-laden salads! Opt for a crudite platter with fat free ranch, 0% Greek yogurt, or hummus. instead.

3.  Steer clear of caloric beverages - save your calories for your meal.  Unsweetened iced tea with lemon or water with a lemon or lime slice are the best choice followed by "diet" beverages.

4.  Choose lean meats such as poultry (chicken or turkey - light meat, without the skin) or seafood (i.e. salmon, shrimp) over beef when possible.   If choosing beef or pork, look for leaner cuts (i.e. pork tenderloin over pork chops or beef tenderloin over porterhouse).

5.  For a vegetarian option try grilling a marinated portabello mushroom!  Avoid processed meats such as hot dogs.

6.  Veggie Kebobs are a delicious option.  Load them up with your favorite vegetables and pineapple as a healthy side dish!

7.  Delicious dessert idea:  grilled peaches and grilled pineapple with vanilla frozen yogurt or ice-cold watermelon.  Freeze a banana or some grapes for a refreshing treat.

8.  Skip the butter:  Grill a garlic bulb with the top sliced (exposing the tops of the cloves) and drizzle in olive oil (wrap in foil) for 35 minutes until it is soft like butter.  Spread the softened cloves on your grilled corn on the cob.

9.  If using bottled marinades, read your labels.  Many are high in salt and sugar.  Make your own - you can control the ingredients.

10.  As always, watch your portions.  Fill your plate 1/2 with veggies, 1/4 with lean protein, and 1/4 whole grain.