It’s holiday time again! Memorial day marks the beginning of summer cookouts and pool parties. With that comes creamy side dishes, high fat meats, and caloric toppings. We’ve all been working hard to get “bikini” ready so why delay our progress by indulging in such foods? Here’s an easy 5-step planning guide for a healthy, safe cookout that won’t ruin your weight loss progress.
First, a BIG thanks to our military!! You are the reason why I can sleep peacefully at night. We honor your bravery. 
Grilling Guide:
1. Choose low-cal, high fiber side dishes.
- Fruit salad
- Veggies and dip
- Whole grain pasta salad with a lite dressing (or even just vinegar with a splash of oil)
- Lentils or black beans
- Made-over baked beans (make your own and decrease added sugar)
- Salsas
2. Choose your “meat” wisely.
- Extra lean beef (94-96% lean)
- Bison
- Pork loin chops
- Low fat turkey hotdogs
- Chicken breast
- Portobello mushrooms (go vegetarian!)
- Chicken kebabs with veggies
- Turkey burgers
- Salmon or tuna steaks
- White fish (in foil packets)
3. Think your drink (kid-friendly).
- Diet soda
- Sugar free lemonade
- Unsweetened tea
- Sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice
4. Lighten up dessert.
- Grilled pineapple, watermelon, bananas, stone fruit
- Berries in a foil packet break down into a decadent sauce to serve over fat free frozen yogurt
5. For food safety: Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. When in doubt throw it out.
Enjoy your time with family and friends! Healthy can still mean delicious! For some more tips see the Memorial Day post from last year 🙂
Ramblings of an RD 