With 4th of July in just 2 days, I have been brainstorming recipes and food ideas for my BBQ weekend.
People ask me if I eat burgers or steak and the answer is YES! I don’t deprive myself of any food, but I do try to think of the healthiest and most nutritious ways to eat those so called “unhealthy” foods.
When I was pregnant with Ava I really started eating more “all natural” products and foods. It got me thinking beyond the bun if you know what I mean. Even bread is processed so I wanted to focus on eating as clean as possible. Sure I don’t eat 100% clean all the time but if I get to 90% I’m happy.
Back to the burgers…..A burger is not a bad food choice, its the toppings, the way its prepared and what you serve it on that can make it more caloric. The bun itself can add another 150-200 plus calories. So if you are looking to keep it a little lighter try it on a lettuce wrap, a salad, or even a low-carb tortilla. You really don’t sacrifice any flavors and it forces you to eat some extra greens!
Lets face it, ALL the flavors really do come from the JUICY burger, not from the bun.
Just for fun I put together a list of some of the “Healthy Foods I enjoy at BBQ’s“
1. Grilled Veggies with Pesto or olive oil
2. BBQ Grilled Chicken Breast
3. Hamburgers in Lettuce wraps or on salad
4. Potato salad with Vinaigrette dressing or Light Mayo/yogurt
5. Cole Slaw (light on the dressing)
6. Bean salad with fresh herbs
7. Corn on the cob (watch the butter!)
I really do love the 4th of July weekend because you get to spend time outside with family and friends during the best weather days of the year.
Try to think of this holiday weekend as a time to have fun with those special people and not make it about eating and drinking as much as possible! It’s an even more important time to take note of your food choices if you are trying to stay on track.
If you want to keep a healthy plate make sure to load up on the salad & veggies first, choose a normal size portion of protein and some healthy carbs. Nix the chips & dips, the foods with tons of oil & grease & if there is something on the table you want that is “bad” eat 1/2 of it or a couple bites and you won’t break the bank!
What is your favorite healthy food item for 4th of July weekend??
