How to Plan a fun Summer BBQ for your Health Conscious Friends
Did you say healthy summer BBQ? Picnics and beach gatherings are around the corner as summer is in full swing, and the hot summer weather is here. This could mean hosting BBQ parties for friends and family with different dietary preferences. Since some people are trying to enjoy their summer events, while still working on their weight loss and nutrition, did you know you could make small changes in an effort to offer healthy alternatives for your health conscious friends?
Here are 3 ways you can implement easy, healthy alternatives for your health conscious friends.
1. Have a variety of drink options available
It’s completely okay to have fun alcoholic drinks and pop, as it is a party after all! In addition to that, you can add some carbonated water or sparkling water for healthy alternatives. Some popular brands include Bubly or La Croix, both known for their wide variety of flavour selections. You can also offer some low sugar beverage options like coconut water, zero sugar pop or homemade infused iced teas.
2. Although hot dogs and burgers are a staple during BBQ’s, vegetarian and non-burger options are nice to have.
Add marinated meats and seafood to your BBQ menu. These items have less ingredients but still bring lots of flavour to your meal. You can have your meats straight up or as a kebab, there’s something about eating food off of a stick that just screams BBQ!
An easy way to add some veggies to your menu is by preparing veggie kebabs, or grilled corn and zucchini. You can also explore new salad options. Try recipes with fresh mint or basil, fresh herbs make the salads feel very summery.
3. Let's talk snacks
Snacks are everything at a bbq. People munch on snacks throughout the duration of the event so it's important to have fun healthy alternatives available. And if you’re also being conscious of what you’re eating, give these a try and still to the main course to avoid overeating. Here is a list of common snacks and what you can provide as a substitute.
Classic Potato Chips
Flavoured rice crackers
Home baked yam chips and dip
Low Sodium crackers and cheese
Candy
Fresh fruit (watermelon, cherries, mangoes, kiwi)
Sugary Desserts
Frozen yogurt
Apples with peanut butter/caramel and chopped nuts
Dark chocolate/Greek yogurt covered strawberries
All in all, remember to have fun with the meal planning process and having a variety is always nice. I also want to remind you that if you really want to have that classic BBQ food, go for it! These are recommendations for those who want to try something a little different.