Make simple changes to your Memorial Day menu without sacrificing flavor or fun.
Memorial Day weekend indicates the start of summer and a backyard BBQ with friends and family is one of the best ways to celebrate. With a full three days to chill out and enjoy the recently acquired warm weather, it can be tempting to really let loose. From boozy drinks loaded with calories to “salads” that contain heaping spoonfuls of mayonnaise as a main ingredient, it’s easy to feel like you’re going to undo all the hard work you put in at the gym this week.
Fear not, BBQ-goer, your workouts were not in vain. Here is a list of healthy Memorial Day alternatives that are easy, delicious, and won’t lead to an afternoon food coma nap (that way you can keep partying!)
Instead of potato chips, try Spicy Grilled Zucchini.
Zucchini gets a really nice crisp to it when grilled. Simply slice into “chips,” toss in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill your zucchini chips on each side until tender with light grill marks. Finish with red pepper flakes, herbs, and lemon juice.
View the full NYT recipe, here.
Opt for a French-Style Potato Salad instead of one slathered in mayo.
French-Style Potato Salad is much lighter than a traditional potato salad, without sacrificing any of the flavor. Boil and cut potatoes of your choice as you normally would, but toss in a tangy dressing instead of mayonnaise. Combine dijon mustard, garlic, red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and dill to create the dressing. Voilà!
View the full Minimalist Baker recipe, here.
Ditch the hot dogs for Grilled Tofu With Chipotle BBQ Sauce.
Do you really need burgers and hot dogs? Consider replacing a red meat option with grilled tofu instead. It is surprisingly easy to work with, and really soaks up the flavor of whatever you marinade it in. For a flavorful chipotle BBQ sauce, use that adobo sauce that comes with canned chipotles. Add ketchup, brown sugar, extra virgin olive oil, soy sauce and water to create a marinade just the way you like it. Make sure to taste as you go!
View the full NYT recipe, here.
Cool off with a Strawberry Wine Slushie instead of reaching for a beer.
If you want to indulge in an alcoholic beverage, this wine slushie is too easy and too delicious to pass up. Simply blend frozen strawberries with your favorite white wine. White wine has less calories and carbs per serving than beer, and strawberries have a low glycemic index which means they won’t affect blood sugar in the same way other sugary drinks might.
Small changes make a big difference, and eating well shouldn’t be stressful. Try implementing just one of these changes at your Memorial Day BBQ and congratulate yourself on making a healthy choice!
