Memorial Day Grilling Tips

Spring has come, summer is near and the grill is now ready for grilling. Steak, sausage, ground beef, and hot dogs are the standard choices for grilling. These meats contain a lot of saturated fats and, when consumed in abundance, can later contribute to heart disease. In order to cut fat down try grilling up a lean meat choices like veggie burgers, turkey burgers or turkey sausage. Almost all are husband approved in the Huggins household except the turkey burger. Add some variety to your menu by grilling some juicy skinless chicken or low-fat seafood. Chicken and shrimp kabobs paired with onions and green and red peppers are quite the crowed pleaser. Any of these meats can be seasoned with lemons, fresh herbs, garlic or even small amounts of wine. 

Remember to always practice food safety while grilling.

Have your meat thawed in a refrigerator and not in direct sunlight or on the counter. Pack a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures to ensure doneness. 

The USDA recommends internal temperatures for steaks, roast pork, and fish to be at 145 degrees Fahrenheit, ground beef at 160 degrees Fahrenheit, and chicken breasts at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.   

Do not forget to dress your burger with favorites! Add low calorie choices like tomatoes, lettuce and reduced fat cheeses.  Provolone, mozzarella, Swiss, and pepper-jack cheeses add wonderful flavor. Complete your burger with whole wheat buns and a spread of mustard instead of mayonnaise. Mayonnaise and even light mayonnaise is rich in saturated and trans fats, making mustard a better selection.

Now that the meat is taken care of, throw some fruits and veggies on the grill for snacks. All of your vegetable and fruit choices are low in calories and they make for great finger foods. Zucchini, squash, peppers, onions or asparagus can be grilled to taste. Brian always grills onion with olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. It is so yummy! 

Last grill time Brian made us grilled asparagus, onion and chicken! With a little hummus on the side!!

Yes, you can even grill fruit. Grilled pineapple is quick and delicious. Besides the tasty burgers and grilled fruits a cold beverage is also essential. I cannot picture anyone standing by the grill without a drink in hand. Which is often an alcoholic beverage. Alcohol contains empty calories. This means they include calories without supplying any nutrients to the body. Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach can cause your blood sugar levels to drop making you feel light headed and dizzy. It is best to drink moderately while snacking. When selecting a beverage, skip the fruity cocktail and regular beer and grab light beer. There is no better way to control your caloric intake than to just drink in moderation. 

One drink is defined as 5 ounces of wine, 1.5 ounces of liquor and 12 ounces of beer. 

And always remember to drink responsibly! Do not drink and drive! If you choose a nonalcoholic drink make a punch for everyone to share. Pour a can of no sugar added 100% juice over frozen fruits and ice then add in slices of your fresh fruits.

Healthy eating does not have to be boring and bland. It is all about being creative and bringing variety to your plate or the grill in this case. Never give up what you love just because it may contain more calories than you need. Just remember to eat in moderation and watch your portion sizes. Eating should be enjoyable! 

Last but not any least, remember what this Memorial Day represents. Take the time to honor our soldiers those who have fought and died for us as well as those who currently fight for our freedom!

 Continue reading as I continue my mission: Healthy Huggins!

Photo Source: USDA

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