Presenting Healthy Strategies for Grilling

Your body is your temple, treat it with love and care this summer and always

Grilling your food is a delicious way to cook outdoors. Not only does it provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the company of friends or neighbors, but it also allows you to change your dinner routine. When done correctly, grilling can be a healthy and delicious way to cook your favorite foods.

I was never a great griller.  I depended on my mom, brother, or husband to take care of that.    Since I became vegetarian at an early age or at least flexitarian, I was more fascinated with grilling vegetables and portabella mushrooms to see how it would turn out and how tasty we can make them.

So, here are a few healthy grilling tips to help you finish summer strong that I discovered in my experiments: 

Use herbs!

When it comes to healthy grilling, fresh herbs are your friend. Not only do they add flavor to your food, but they can also help to boost the nutritional value of your meal. Rosemary, for example, is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect your cells from damage. Thyme is a good source of Vitamin C, which helps to boost immunity. And basil contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation. So next time you fire up the grill, reach for some fresh herbs to take your meal to the next level.

Prioritize veggies (and fruits!)

Next time you fire up the grill, try putting veggies and fruits front and center. Not only are they healthier options, but they're also just as delicious when cooked over an open flame. For example, grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and peppers are a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meal. And fruit kabobs are a fun and easy way to enjoy summer fruits like cherries, peaches, and watermelon.

Make your own sauces!

Store-bought barbecue sauces and condiments can be loaded with sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats. So why not make your own? It's easier than you think, and you can control the ingredients to ensure they fit into your healthy lifestyle.

Smart Side-Items

Focus on grilled fruits and vegetables as side dish options. These are not only healthy and delicious options, but they also contain important vitamins and minerals that can help you stay well. Typical barbeque side items such as potato salad, macaroni salad, and baked beans still have a place on your plate if you enjoy them. But when you prioritize your plate by filling it with mostly healthy options, you'll create healthy habits that stick while still enjoying all the delicious foods you love.

Avoid processed meats!

Hot dogs, sausages, and hamburgers are your usual barbeque go-to options. For healthier options, you can choose portobello burgers, veggie burgers, or high-quality chicken or turkey burgers.  

"The more you care for your body, the more it will care for you during the summer and beyond."

Grilling out is a summer tradition, but it doesn't have to mean you can't eat nutritional foods that fuel you. Plenty of healthy options can fit into your grilled meal, including lean protein, veggie burgers, fruits and vegetables, and delicious side items to help you stay on track with your health goals while still enjoying your favorite grilled foods.

Lastly, invite family and friends to share in your healthy grilling journey. Embrace the communal spirit of BBQ gatherings, and watch as everyone appreciates the scrumptious, nourishing meals you've prepared.

Here's a delicious and easy veggie grill recipe that will tantalize your taste buds:

Grilled Veggie Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Ingredients:

• Assorted vegetables of your choice (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onions, mushrooms, and eggplant)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• Wooden or metal skewers

Balsamic Glaze:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 clove garlic, minced.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Wash and prepare the vegetables. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are all roughly the same size for cooking.
4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are all evenly coated.
5. Assemble the skewers by threading the seasoned vegetables onto the skewers, alternating the different veggies to create colorful and appealing skewers.
6. Place the veggie skewers on the preheated grill, making sure to leave enough space between them for even cooking.
7. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to cook all sides until the vegetables are tender and have those beautiful grill marks.
8. While the skewers are grilling, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or agave nectar), minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it starts to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Once the veggie skewers are done, remove them from the grill and place them on a serving platter.
10. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the grilled vegetable skewers just before serving, allowing the sweet and tangy flavors to complement the smoky goodness of the grilled veggies.
11. Serve the grilled veggie skewers with your favorite side dishes or a fresh green salad for a delightful and healthy meal.

Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in this vibrant grilled veggie recipe that's perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone who loves delicious, nutritious meals! 🌽🍅🍆🌶️🍢🍴

So, let this summer be the season of healthy grilling—where taste and nutrition come together on your plate. Fire up the grill, relish the aroma of deliciousness, and revel in the joy of cooking mindfully for yourself and your loved ones.

"Summer is the time to reset, recharge, and renew your commitment to a healthy lifestyle."

Elevate Your Well-being Today! Log into the www.luvyourhealthylife.com and check out some of our Transformative Wellness Courses!  And come back for often as I continue to launch new courses and share information.

Enjoy your healthy life,

Teri Sewell Huff, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach

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