When you think of barbecue- what do you think of? Does an image of meat dripping in a rich sauce, potato chips, and soda come to mind? It does for me! However, if you’re on a health journey, barbecue sauce and ketchup alone can throw you off track because of the high sugar content! Don’t worry though, there are so many healthy and delicious options out there that you won’t even miss the greasy chips or charcoaled steak!
Also, since most people time off for the weekend, use your time wisely and do some physical activity. Even 30 minutes can start your day off right. When you work out, you improve your mood, rev up your metabolism, release anger and frustration, and feel happier after you are finished.
Here are a few tips on how to make your Memorial Day healthy and enjoyable.
1. Instead of the classic ribs and sauce, make chicken and vegetable skewers on the grill. When making the skewers, choose small chicken breast pieces with alternating pineapple, zucchini, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. You can really choose wherever vegetables you love. Instead of a BBQ sauce, drizzle the skewers with lemon juice, salt, pepper, rosemary, oregano, and even red pepper flakes.
2. Skip the potato salad this year, and instead make a fresh salad. Raw vegetables like tomatoes, cucumber, spinach and romaine lettuce are filled with antioxidants, nutrients, and even water to help you stay hydrated and satiated. Fill your salad with raw veggies, and top it off with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and feta cheese.
3. Grill sweet potatoes, zucchini, asparagus, mushrooms, and corn! All of these veggies do great on the grill! You and your guests will have no guilt after the party is over. Get creative with different marinades, and natural spices such as dill, cilantro, parsley, and a great parmesan cheese to top off the veggies. Grilling is such a great way to add flavor to your food!
4. Last but not least are the drinks! Forget soda all together. It is full of sugar and chemicals. Even the diet sodas are awful for your health and leach minerals out of your body. If you are craving something fizzy- choose sparkling water such as Perrier or La Croix. Even better, make your own healthy punch! Add ice, LaCroix sparkling water, berries, and lemon juice into a pitcher and enjoy your own lemonade. Add a natural sweetener such as stevia or a little bit of honey for flavor. If you choose to consume alcohol, skip the sugary drinks as well and stick to clear spirits. And remember to always hydrate in between drinks!
