Want to begin your journey to a healthier lifestyle? Then start grilling your food! Cooking your food on the grill generally healthier than cooking it over the stove or on the oven, but there are plenty of other ways how you can keep your food even more nutritious through grilling.
Follow these effective healthy grilling tips to jumpstart your new lifestyle!
Choose the right protein
Now is the time to pick leaner and healthier cuts of meat! Instead of your usual meats with a lot of fat, opt for healthier choices such as chicken breast, skinless chicken and fish, lean ground poultry etc. When you grill them right, nobody won’t miss having red meat!
While red meat from time to time is fine, keep in mind that it contains more saturated fat. If you’re using pork or beef, choose loin or round cuts. Instead of the prime grade, go for choice or select grades.
Make a delicious rub or marinade
If you use natural herbs and spices to create a rub or a marinade, you’ll be adding amazing flavour to your protein without having to use and consume too much salt. For every pound of food, you’ll need about 1 tablespoon of spice rub or 1/2 cup of marinade.
Just remember not to use any herbs or spices after they’ve touched raw meat!
Portion your food
Did you know that 3 oz is the healthy amount of portion for all types of meat? It’s up to you to have more, but definitely don’t go over 6oz. Don’t forget, you still have side dishes and delicious grilled fruits or vegetables to enjoy!
Opt for healthier side dishes
It’s a good time to ditch your usual store-bought BBQ sides like macaroni salad, potato salad, baked beans or coleslaw – they contain lots of added sugars, sodium and saturated fat. Instead, prepare healthier, homemade versions.
Add lots of color and nutrition to your menu and utilize fresh fruits and vegetables as side dishes. Make colourful fruit or vegetable kebabs or a colourful bean salad. The possibilities are endless!
Use whole grain buns or bread
Planning to grill hotdogs or burgers? Go for whole grain buns and bread – they’ll provide more fiber, flavour and texture. You can also opt for an open-faced burger or a lettuce wrap if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Follow these effective healthy grilling tips for a more nutritious barbecuing and eating from now on!