Late Summer Nights and Outdoor Bites

To find some new favorites, choose meat that has little to no fat. Try turkey burgers, skinless chicken, and lean beef or pork.

Don’t forget to use a meat thermometer when cooking meats. Cooking to the correct temperature lowers your risk of getting sick. It also helps prevent dried out, overcooked meats.

Since it is best to eat fish twice a week, get your summertime Omega-3 fatty acids by grilling up salmon, cod or tilapia.

For those who don’t eat meat, try grilling tofu or bean burgers.

Flavorful veggies

The best grilling veggies are zucchini, squash, peppers, mushrooms, eggplant, onions and corn. Also try cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, artichokes and tomatoes.

When slicing veggies, try to make them the same thickness. This way they will cook at the same rate.

Drizzle veggies with oil before placing them on the grill. They can also be seasoned with fresh herbs or a little salt and pepper.

Use tin foil or place food directly on the grill grate. Cook until tender.

Marinate portabella mushrooms and grill whole. They make a tasty plant-based “burger” or side item.

Quick side salads

A crisp, green salad is the perfect side dish. Make ahead of time with seasonal produce.

Don’t be afraid to try fruit on your next salad. Watermelon, peaches, apples, and berries can add flavor.

A new spin on desserts

Enjoy the rare flavor of grilled watermelon. Simply grill each side for 30 seconds and enjoy!

Using low heat, grill fruit kabobs, sliced pineapple, or peaches. The warm sweetness will make this your new, favorite summertime treat!

Adapted from: Eatright.org

Healthy Choices for Healthy Families July/August 2022