Summer is here, meaning it’s time to fire up the grill! Grilling is a popular way to cook during the summer, but it’s essential to make healthy choices regarding the foods you’re grilling.
Here are some healthy recipes to add to your meal rotation this year.
Grilled Chicken Skewers:
A lean protein that is excellent for grilling is chicken. Chicken breasts should be cut into cubes and marinated with herbs, lemon juice, and garlic in olive oil. Grill the chicken on skewers until fully done. For a full dinner, serve along with a side salad.
Grilled Fish Tacos:
Fish is another healthy protein option for grilling—Marinate fish fillets in lime juice, cumin, and chili powder. Grill the fish until it’s cooked, and serve in tortillas with avocado, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers:
Don’t forget about the veggies! Cut vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and skewer them. Olive oil should be used, then salt and pepper should be added. Grill until tender and serve as a side dish.
Grilled Fruit Kebabs:
Grilling isn’t just for savory foods – you can also grill fruit for a healthy dessert—cut and skewer fruit like pineapple, peaches, and strawberries into large chunks. Brush with honey and cinnamon, and grill until the fruit is slightly caramelized.
Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Kabobs:
Shrimp is an excellent protein source with grilled veggies; try alternating shrimp with bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes on skewers. Grill the vegetables and shrimp until they are soft, and the shrimp is pink. Brush with olive oil.
Grilled Turkey Burgers:
Burgers are a summer staple but don’t have to be unhealthy. Use lean ground turkey instead of beef, and add flavor with herbs and spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika. Grill the burgers until cooked, and serve on whole grain buns with avocado and tomato slices.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms:
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, portobello mushrooms are fantastic. Marinate the mushrooms in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic. Grill until tender, and serve on a bun with toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
Corn is a classic summer side dish, perfect for grilling. Soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out. Grill until the kernels are slightly charred, and serve with a sprinkle of salt and a pat of butter.
Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges:
In addition to being tasty when grilled, sweet potatoes are a healthy alternative to normal potatoes. Sweet potatoes should be cut into wedges and tossed with olive oil, cumin, and paprika. Grill the side dish until it is tender, and serve.
Grilled Chicken Salad:
A summer salad is a terrific vehicle for grilled chicken. Grill chicken breasts until done by marinating them in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Serve the chicken with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado on top of a bed of greens.
Grilling is a great way to enjoy the summer weather while cooking healthy meals. By incorporating lean proteins like chicken and fish, plenty of vegetables, and various fruits, you can create a meal rotation that’s both delicious and nutritious. So fire up the grill and get cooking!