Four Healthier Food Choices for Your Summer Barbecues

Nothing says summer quite like the smells and sounds of a sizzling barbecue shared with a happy gathering of family and friends in the sun. But, traditional barbecue food is renowned for being unhealthy – fatty and processed foods may be tasty, but they’re certainly not good for you. The good news is that celebrating the arrival of the warmer weather with your family and friends doesn’t have to ruin all the hard work you’ve been putting in when it comes to your health and fitness. Read on for our top picks when it comes to healthy yet ridiculously tasty barbecue foods.

#1. Organic Meat:

Opting for organic meat can make a massive difference to your barbecue when it comes to taste, food quality and nutrition. Today’s mass-produced meat contains more chemicals than most of us realize. Instead, opting for Non-GMO, all-natural meats from smaller, honest ranches is a healthier and eco-friendlier choice. If you can, a local, small farm or butcher can be the best place to get your barbecue meat. Instead of shopping for meat at the grocery store, why not check out True Story Foods – all their livestock is raised with care by farmers who believe in using simple ingredients to produce honest food.

#2. Plenty of Veggies:

One of the best ways to make your barbecue a healthier event is to throw in plenty of leafy greens and salad vegetables on the side. Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, spring onions and peppers are all great in a crunchy salad; the perfect side for your hot dog or burger. For an even healthier meal, go easy on creamy dressings and opt for a light vinaigrette or a dash of olive oil instead.

#3. Stay Hydrated:

Planning a barbecue can only mean one thing – summer is on the way! As the weather gets warmer and we start to spend more time outdoors, staying properly hydrated becomes even more essential. Since you’ll dehydrate faster in the heat, jugs of refreshing fruit infused water with ice can be the perfect beverage to serve up to your guests. Lemon, ginger, cucumber and mint leaves can be combined for a seriously refreshing taste or combine a selection of berries and sliced apples for a fruitier drink.

#4. Fruit for Desert:

If you’re serving desert to your guests, then skip sugar-laden cakes or pastries in favor of fresh fruit. Strawberries, melon, pineapple, blueberries, and peaches are some sweet and tasty fruit ideas that are bound to go down a treat. If the weather’s hot, fruit will be a welcome addition to the table since most fruits are rich sources of electrolytes and contain fluids to help with rehydration. Serve your fruit with fresh cream, frozen yogurt, or low-fat ice cream for a tasty treat.

If you’re trying to stick to eating a healthy and balanced diet, a meal on the barbecue can threaten to get in the way of all your hard work. Thanks to these healthier barbecue alternatives, you can enjoy every morsel guilt-free.