Barbecues are synonymous with Father’s Day. Make it extra special by planning a a meal with a heathy twist. Before Dad fires up the grill, consider lightening up your menu.
It is no secret that hot dogs and hamburgers are staples at BBQs.
When choosing hot dogs, look for those that are lean, nitrate-free, and uncured. Consider turkey hot dogs or vegetarian options as well.
Skip the roll and enjoy this deliciously healthy Grilled Hot Dog which nests inside slices of flavorful grilled zucchini and is topped off with a bright and flavorful mango salsa.
Make hamburgers from lean ground beef and add finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and peppers. This Mushroom Stuffed Burger melds the rich flavors of red wine and mushrooms to make a hearty, lower fat recipe. Top the high protein burger off with lettuce, tomato, and red onion if desired.
Lean turkey burgers can be dry and bland compared to a traditional beef burger. These Garlic Chili Turkey Burgers spiced up with garlic, ginger, hot sauce and scallions are loaded with flavor instead of high fat. A healthy chili garlic yogurt sauce keeps them moist, too.
For a healthy, plant-based burger option, here’s a Vegetarian Burger that will be the star of your summer cookout. Packed with flavor and lean protein, these black bean burgers are satisfying and delicious.
Skip the refined hot dog and hamburger buns and opt for higher fiber, whole grain buns. Or try this delicious Caprese Burger recipe. Two slices of grilled beefsteak tomato are used instead of a roll for a fresh and healthy alternative.
Fire up the grill for this Turkey London Broil that is spiced up with a lively fresh ginger marinade. This flavorful marinade is great for beef, chicken, or pork.
Grilled fish can be a delicious, healthy dish to serve on Father’s Day. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish has been linked to a number of health benefits. Choose fresh fish like salmon or tuna and enjoy a tasty protein hit. Or enjoy this Grilled Lime Shrimp recipe as an appetizer or entrée!
Go wingless this Father’s Day and cook up some Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Or grab some hot sauce, blue cheese and celery and Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower for an irresistible appetizer everyone will love. Cauliflower never tasted so good!
Grilling is a great way to prepare vegetables to enhance the deep, rich flavor. A delicious garlic balsamic marinade gives these Grilled Vegetables a savory sweet flavor. This low-calorie side dish complements meat, fish, and poultry. If there are any leftovers, grilled vegetables are great to incorporate into other dishes!
Fresh, light, and full of flavor, salads are the perfect way to balance out your Father’s Day meal. Serve up green leafy salads with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, almonds, strawberries, orange slices, chickpeas, brown rice, low-fat feta, and a range of fresh veggies. Try this Kale, Tomato, and White Bean salad, a protein packed, fiber rich salad that is a terrific side, or can stand alone for a vegetarian selection.
Watch the condiments, as ketchup and barbecue sauce can be high in sugar. Lighten up the salt, sugar, and fat content of your barbecue by swapping heavy, preservative-filled marinades with simple ingredients like olive oil and flavorful herbs and spices. Yogurt-based sauces and marinades can also be a great choice for barbecued food. This Yogurt Dipping Sauce give these Grilled Chicken Kabobs a feisty spark of flavor.
Indulging in ice cream or cake on Father’s Day might be a family tradition, but it is ok to step out of the box. This Summer Berry Fruit Salad is a fat free, low calorie treat bursting with nutrition and color. This Grilled Peaches Salad and Fresh Berries make a great start or a happy ending to any summer meal. Let the little ones help put together these Fruit Kabobs with Yogurt Dip. Honey and cinnamon are the secret ingredients in this yummy treat.
Beer and alcoholic beverages are customarily invited to celebrations. As always, drink in moderation and stay well hydrated. Skip sugary sodas and drink plenty of water. If you want something cool and fresh, try this refreshing Mint Iced Tea or indulge in this lighted up Tropical Lemonade.
Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads!
