8 Heart Healthy Tips for Summertime BBQs

Start with Lean Proteins: When it comes to grilling, lean meats like chicken breasts, turkey burgers, fish filets, and lean cuts of beef or pork are excellent choices. Trim off any visible fat before grilling to reduce unhealthy saturated fats. Alternatively, consider plant-based protein options like bean burgers or portobello mushrooms for a nutritious twist.

Marinate Wisely: Marinating meats not only adds flavor but also helps reduce the formation of harmful compounds when grilling at high temperatures. Opt for marinades made with avocado oil, citrus juices, vinegar, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. These ingredients not only enhance taste but also provide antioxidants that can counteract the effects of grilling.

Embrace Colorful Veggies: Grilling isn’t just for meat lovers – it’s a fantastic way to cook vegetables, too! Load up your grill with an assortment of colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and asparagus. Brush them lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs and spices, and grill until tender. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in vegetables, creating a mouthwatering charred flavor.

Mindful Grilling: Avoid charring or burning your food, as this can lead to the formation of carcinogenic compounds like heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Flipping meat frequently and avoiding flare-ups can help prevent excessive charring.

Choose Whole Grains: Instead of traditional white burger buns or refined pasta salads, opt for whole grain options like whole wheat buns, brown rice, quinoa, or whole grain pasta salads. Whole grains provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for overall health and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Don’t Forget Fruit: Grilling isn’t just for savory dishes – it’s also perfect for bringing out the natural sweetness of fruits. Try grilling slices of pineapple, peaches, watermelon, or even bananas for a delicious and healthy dessert option. Serve them on their own or pair them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Hydrate Smartly: While grilling outdoors, it’s essential to stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days. Opt for water or herbal iced teas instead of sugary sodas or alcoholic beverages, which can add unnecessary calories and dehydrate you further.

Practice Food Safety: Last but certainly not least, always prioritize food safety when grilling. Ensure that your grill is clean and preheated properly before cooking, and use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. Use a food thermometer to check that meats are cooked to the recommended internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.