As much as I enjoy four seasons after having lived in FL for many years, I always look forward to the warm weather returning every Spring. We are now a week away from the official start of the summer with Memorial Day just around the corner and I can’t wait for more outdoor meals!
It pains me to say that in our home that means cheeseburgers and hot dogs over and over and over…Growing up, asados (Argentine-style BBQ parties) meant lots of different cuts of meat, ALL the body parts of the cow as well as chicken, different salads, and ice cream at the end. Neither option is particularly healthy overall and while a cheat meal is always fun, there are a lot of weekends between Memorial and Labor Day. The good news is that there are a lot of easy, healthy, and delicious options to add to the repertoire of the summer BBQ.
I like to think of meals in categories as you can probably tell from all my posts, so below I am listing a few ideas for appetizers, main course and sides, and even dessert.
Appetizers
- Veggie platters – these are so easy to make (grape tomatoes, cucumbers, baby carrots) with no or very short prep time. Pair it with hummus in order to avoid some of the high fat creamy dips that come with the prepared trays at stores. For a healthier version of a creamy dip, try using fat-free plain Greek Yogurt and adding fresh herbs (dill or parsley are great) and seasoning with salt, garlic powder, or dried herbs if fresh ones are not available.
- Tomato and mozzarella skewers – I have made these many times for all occasions, not just summer. I like to get short skewers and put grape tomatoes (3), mozzarella balls(2), and basil leaves (3), then drizzle with a bit of balsamic vinegar.
- Shrimp cocktails – healthy, easy, full of protein! What else can I say?
- Spinach dip – using frozen spinach, fat free sour cream, and just a touch of full fat Mayo, makes for a spinach dip that is much lower in calorie but not in flavor than your regular versions. Use a 10 oz frozen pack of spinach (defrost in microwave), add a cup of fat free sour cream, 1/4 cup of mayo, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and 2/3 cup of part skim shredded mozzarella, heat again in the microwave, and done! Pair with whole wheat chips from Stacy’s.
Main Course
- Chicken – if you don’t want to eat burgers or hot dogs, grilled chicken breast brushed with olive oil and seasoned with spices/herbs is a great option (marinades can add a lot of calories, so be careful).
- Veggie burgers – my preferred brand is Morningstar but there are lots of options for anyone who doesn’t eat meat or is looking for a healthier option.
- Turkey burgers – another delicious option if you are still looking to partake in burger eating fun!
- Avocado and egg salad – mix half and avocado and 4 hard boiled eggs (chopped) for a healthy and tasty version of egg salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with a whole wheat wrap or as a side salad.
Dessert
- Popsicles – crowd favorite in our home and when eating outside, you don’t have to worry about the mess!
- Fruit platters – use seasonal products for an easy and delicious dessert for the whole family.
- Homemade parfaits – layer Greek yogurt (I use whole fat Greek vanilla yogurt for the kids, fat free Greek yogurt for adults but you can stick with whatever yogurt you like) with any berries you like and granola or cereal, drizzle honey on top.
- Frozen yogurt – I don’t have any specific brand I like, but there are lots of options at the store (as well as lots of options for lower fat ice-creams); don’t forget to create a fun fro-yo bar with fruits, mini chocolate chips, mini M&Ms, and whipped topping.
There you have it! Several ideas for summer get togethers or small family meals that won’t ruin all the hard work from your week and can allow you to maintain the healthy lifestyle we all strive for. I’ll be honest and confess that I will likely eat my fair share of cheeseburgers as well but will try to alternate as much as I can.
Let me know which recipes are your favorites in the comments!
