Out of the Box Summer BBQ Ideas

Sniff. Sniff.
What’s that I smell, bringing up lots of thoughts about summer?
It’s the wonderful smell of a barbecue!

Summer is a great time to get outside and cook the family a quick healthy.  Ok, fall and winter are good for BBQ’s too, but let’s save that discussion for a few more months, at least. This summer, don’t get boxed into thinking a BBQ is just about hot dogs and hamburgers. As yummy as those can be, there are many other great things to enjoy.  

Here are some other “out of the box” options to give a try this summer.

Veggie-Q

When you know how to grill vegetables, it's easy to create mouthwatering choices that your kids might even eat! Many veggies do well on the grill, but a few really standout: asparagus, eggplant, mushrooms, onions and even cabbage.

Give this easy veggie recipes a try:
Grilled Vegetables
Spicy Jerk Vegetables

Of course, the vegetable that deserves its own BBQ category is corn. Did you know there’s like a million ways you can grill corn? Well, maybe not a million, so let’s just say more ways than you can shake a stick of butter (or shaker of salt) at!

Try this Grilled Corn on the Cob with Roasted Garlic and Herbs recipe

Meatless-Q

Being a vegetarian can be a challenge when planning or attending a barbecue.  The grill is flaming, the meat is sizzling and it all smells so good, but what’s a vegetarian to eat? Maybe a defrosted veggie burger?  These meatless recipes add an element of creativity and tastiness to those dog days of summer gatherings.  Oh, they might just attract some meat eaters too!
I’m pretty sure you won’t be able to pass up these Grilled Zucchini Subs with Fresh Mozzarella and Olivada. Olivada? You betcha! Or maybe a Blue Cheese Portobello Burger sounds good?

Get the recipes:
Grilled Zucchini Subs
Blue Cheese Portobello Burger

Meat-Q

The all American burger is very traditional to enjoy when grilling.  But why not add a little spice and flare to your basic burger?  This chipotle burger will have your taste bud swinging!  Just remember to use lean burger meat.

Chipotle Burger Recipe

So, your summer barbecue can more than just the standard fare. Change things up a bit and get creative with your next menu and give one of these healthy barbecue recipes a try!
Summer living is the perfect time to get outside, spend time with family and enjoy all the fresh foods Maine produces.  It’s a great time to enjoy healthy living! 

The health educators at the Learning Resource Center are happy to help. They provide trusted & reliable health information and connect people to local resources in the community. Connect with a health educator today! Be well, be well informed.