Amidst camping trips and family vacations, you may still have time to enjoy a few pool parties and backyard barbecues this summer. One of the best (…or worst!) parts about grilling out is the temptation that can come along with calorie-packed food pairings.
Whether you’re trying to lose weight or you simply seek to add a healthy twist to your outdoor BBQ, consider adding some fruits and veggies to your platter. Not only will your guests rave about the delicious eats, but you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re fueling your body with nutrients.
As you gear up to grill out, be sure to check out our top picks of fruits and veggies to barbecue:
Pineapple
A sweet treat with a savory kick, grilled pineapple cuts out the fruit’s acidity and turns it into a decadent dessert. Slice your pineapple into wedges or rings and place it on the grill for about three minutes per side. For an added twist, sprinkle about a teaspoon of ground cinnamon on top. Perfection!
Asparagus
Asparagus is rich in vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin E! Lightly charred asparagus tossed in a little bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper makes for an incredibly easy and nutritious summer side dish. Kick the flavor up a notch with the addition of parmesan. Once it’s prepped, place the spears directly on the grill over high heat, sprinkle a bit of parmesan on top and cook for three minutes. Enjoy!
Watermelon
If there were awards for fruits that were most representative of summer, then watermelon would surely receive a gold medal. A hydrating snack on a hot summer day, watermelons can also be enjoyed lightly grilled over for extra tasty treat. Brush the watermelon lightly on both sides with the olive oil before grilling over high heat for four to five minutes. Sprinkle with sea salt and ground pepper for an extra kick.
Zucchini
Our list of delicious grilled vegetables would not be complete without the inclusion of this supper-time favorite. As it stands on its own, zucchini is a healthy addition to any plate. Add a zing of lemon zest and your guests will be elbowing for seconds. You might also want to consider garnishing your dish with lemon salt. (Yes, lemon salt! Think lime salt for margaritas…yum.)
Prosciutto-Wrapped Peaches
Via Chef John, AllRecipes.com
It might sound strange if you’ve never had its flavor tickle your taste buds, but prosciutto-wrapped peaches are a savory treat that will surely become a crowd favorite at your BBQ. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. After removing the peach stones, wrap prosciutto around each peach section and grill until caramelized. Drizzle the final product with olive oil, garnish with basil and serve with a spoonful of burrata. Voila!
Do you have a grilled fruit or vegetable that you would like to add to our list? We can’t wait to hear from you. Share your favorites in the comment section below!
