The Center's Blog

Tips for a Healthy Independence Day Barbeque

By: LCF Staff

July 2, 2024, 10:00 am - Categories: Fitness

As the Fourth of July quickly approaches, now is the time to start prepping for your holiday barbeque. With so many options for food and drinks, it can be hard to choose healthier options to serve your friends and family. Get rid of the guesswork and follow these simple tricks to ensure that your party is the best it can be.

Add salads to the table.

Among the spread of chicken salad and tuna salad, add a few green salads to the table. Garden salads don’t have to be boring- there are endless ways to take a plain salad to the next level. Consider adding unique vegetables to the salad, or even a variety of nuts and fruits. Provide a few fat-free salad dressings for a complete and healthy side to your main entrées.

Increase your vegetable intake.

Instead of a plain veggie tray, try unique ways to get your guests snacking on vegetables. Add veggies such as mushrooms, peppers, cherry tomatoes and onions to skewers for a delicious side. Or, season corn on the cob, sweet potatoes, or summer squash, wrap them in foil and add to the grill for a tasty and healthy snack.

Get creative with dessert.

Brownies, cookies and other sweet treats can be tempting during summer parties. If you’re looking for dessert that is a bit healthier, consider desserts like sugar-free gelato or Italian ice. For a fun DIY, you can even try your hand at making frozen fruit pops with your favorite tropical fruits. These tasty and cool treats are great alternatives for even the kids at the party.

Try low-sugar drinks.

In the July heat, it can be easy to reach for a cold soda to quench your thirst. Though tasty, sodas are often loaded with high amounts of sugar. An easy fix is to offer low sugar sodas, or consider healthy alternatives, such as prebiotic sodas and flavored waters. Additionally, you can make your own punch or lemonade and determine how much sugar goes into it. Don’t forget to load the cooler with lots of friendly H₂O as well.

As you prepare for your upcoming summer barbeque, grab healthy alternatives at the grocery store and get ready to have your healthiest and tastiest party foods yet.

REFERENCE: https://www.eatright.org/food/food-preparation/cooking-tips/tips-for-a-healthy-cookout