05/24/2024
It's Memorial Day weekend and many of us will be enjoying BBQ's - it's essential! BUT it doesn't have to be a weekend of caloric pitfalls!!
KEEP THINGS DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS WITH THESE
FIVE EASY BBQ SWAPS TO HELP YOU INDULGE WHILE KEEPING THOSE CALORIES IN CHECK!!
#1: Skip High-Fat Mayo in Salads
No cookout is complete without macaroni or pasta salad, but mayo can turn a healthy dish into a calorie-laden indulgence. A healthier creamy option is Greek yogurt, which cuts calories and adds protein. You can also use avocado for a boost of healthy fat.
Need inspiration? Check out this Avocado-Mayo Coleslaw. https://blog.biotrust.com/5-healthy-bbq-sides/?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=01HYF2ZN7BJCCGAKTAAZ55FJ1P&utm_id=01HYF2ZN7BJCCGAKTAAZ55FJ1P&_kx=iLI9UysSEznxJ4QMmJK1Fz0nUzYzEX4fNla9gMqF-KU.V3hpXm
#2: Go Lean
Opt for 96% lean beef or ground turkey for your burgers and don't layer on the cheese! One slice of a good cheese such as gouda works. And again, EASY on the mayo! Layer on a dijon, honey or other flavored mustard to keep it on the healthy side.
#3: Sauce is Not Boss
Most store-bought BBQ sauces contain high fructose corn syrup. Choose a brand free from high fructose corn syrup, lower in sodium, and without added sugar.
If you have a few extra minutes, try this BBQ sauce recipe:
½ cup of tomato paste
½ cup water
4 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp honey
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
#4: Healthier Dogs
While hot dogs are an easy to grab one handed while catching up with friends and family at the cookout, you can reduce saturated fat and calories by switching from traditional hot dogs to turkey or chicken dogs. Or, just make sure it's 100% beef and nitrate free!
#5: Be Sure To Stay Hydrated
Choose infused water, unsweetened iced tea, or sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice over sugary sodas and fruity drinks.
Make your own homemade lemonade with this recipe:
4-6 large lemons, juiced (about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice)
4 cups cold water
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
In a pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and cold water. Stir well to combine.
Gradually add the honey or maple syrup to the pitcher, stirring continuously until it's fully dissolved.
Add ice cubes to the pitcher to chill the lemonade.
Serve the homemade lemonade in glasses filled with ice cubes.
Most of all, enjoy your weekend and thank anyone you know who serves or served our country!!
The real stars of any outdoor cookout are the sides. The more colorful and flavorful, the better. Enjoy these healthy BBQ sides that are cookout approved.