7 Ways to a Healthier Summer BBQ

The Healthy Dining Team

Go lean at your next summer barbecue without giving up the foods, flavors and fun you love! These sneaky little tweaks will add health-optimizing nutrients and decrease the extra "junk" your body doesn't need:

1. Blend burgers with veggies for more flavor, less saturated fat, and fewer calories (plus it's better for our planet!).

Add minced veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, even black beans with your burger meat. Try pre-roasting or grilling the veggies for richer flavor. Top your burger with other fresh or grilled veggies instead of cheese and mayo.

2. Swap in non-fat Greek yogurt for dips.

Lower in calories and higher in protein than sour cream or mayo, non-fat Greek yogurt can be flavored with herbs and spices for a delish dip. This swap is becoming so popular that you can even find Greek yogurt dips at the store to save time.

3. Give bean-based dips a try this year.

Lentils, white beans, black beans and pinto beans can all be pureed with your favorite seasonings and a little olive oil or veggie broth to create a protein-packed and nutritious pairing for veggies.

4. Spice up your recipes.

Try to add spices to almost everything. Black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, turmeric, ginger, chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and so many more! Spices (and herbs) are high in health benefits and can be used instead of salt or sugar.

5. Rethink the snack food.

Opt for popcorn, jicama dippers and other veggies, fresh fruit, nuts, whole grain crackers in place of the standard chips for munching before the meal.

6. Cut sugar and calories, not flavor, in drinks.

Stick with iced tea flavored with a few slices of fruit or fresh, sweet berries or blend punch and juice with sparkling water for more drink with less calories. For a cooling indulgence with fewer calories, make a sparkling margarita or wine spritzer by replacing a portion of the mixer or wine with sparkling water.

7. Enjoy sweet rewards without the guilt.

Granita, sorbet or even frozen fruits serve up a satisfying finish to your meal with fewer calories and less sugar and fat. A drizzle of dark chocolate, dollop of whipped topping or some chopped nuts can add a touch more decadence and still keep calories in check.

So go lean with family and friends at your next summer barbecue--and enjoy every minute of it!