Guilt-free grilling: 7 healthy foods that are a treat on the BBQ

With summer fast approaching, many of us are itching to fire up the grill and chow down on some delicious barbecued fare. But while indulging in some grilled goodies is a classic warm weather tradition, what about those calorie-conscious individuals who want to enjoy their favorite treats without throwing their diets off-track? Here are 7 mouth-watering dishes that offer all of the flavor but none of the guilt.

by Jari Putteman

Are you a fan of Italian cuisine but looking to cut back on meat? The solution can be found in Portobello mushrooms, the hearty ingredient that can transform any BBQ into a vegetarian's paradise. With a texture that meaty, it can be quite hard to believe they're not the real deal. For a richer and deeper flavor profile, marinate them using some savory olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. To assemble your (almost) burger, use whole wheat buns, slice up fresh tomatoes and stuff some crisp arugula in between.

Don’t be fooled by its unassuming appearance - zucchini definitely holds its own against meat or carb-heavy dishes that often dominate outdoor gatherings. The secret? A simple rub of olive oil and seasoning gives way to an instant transformation into juicy and charred perfection. Whether served alongside a dollop of hummus as appetizers or as a light main dish on hot days, zucchini should be at the top of your grilling game. Give them a try in everything from fresh salads to hot pasta plates!

Who said fruits can't sizzle? Sweeten up your BBQ game with grilled peaches, a delicious and low-calorie dessert that's sure to please the crowd. Begin by slicing fresh, ripe peaches lengthwise and coating each half in a delicious mix of fragrant honey and bold cinnamon. Next, grill your peach halves until they are tender from within but charred on the bottom. Finally, serve the fruits alongside freshly whipped Greek yogurt topped with crispy granola crumbs. For a savory spin, try grilling the halves and topping them with crumbled goat cheese and chopped fresh herbs.

In search of mellow flavors and attractive preparation times? Grilled tuna steaks are here to answer your prayers. First, simply season the tuna with some salt, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Then, grill for about 1 minute per side until cooked to suit your palate. The result is a refined showstopper that's perfect for your next barbecue feast. And if you want to make sure the unique texture and taste of the fish truly shine through, whip up a pickled cucumber salad or a sweet balsamic glaze.

This American all-star is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins if you ditch the bevy of unhealthy condiments and take advantage its natural nutrients. Grill it for 10-15 minutes until succulent and slightly charred and enhance the flavors even further by dusting off the corn with crumbly cotija cheese, aromatic smoked paprika, and chipotle mayo. Or, for a Mediterranean flair, dress up with some feta cheese, chopped fresh mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The possibilities are aplenty!

Vegetable enthusiasts have long been touting the benefits of sweet potatoes due to their impressive nutritional profile. However, did you know that grilling these versatile veggies can take their natural taste to new heights? Cut them into round slices and coat with olive oil, minced garlic, and rosemary before tossing them on the grates until golden brown marks appear. This technique enhances the delicacy's sweetness, making it an irresistible addition to any meal party. Plate them alongside protein, such as grilled chicken or fish, for a wholesome main course.

There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy wedge of ripe watermelon on a warm day. But have you ever tried grilling the luscious snack? Don’t worry if this strikes you as unusual – the fruit takes on a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with savory and zesty seasonings. Experiment with toppings and retain the island vibe by loading up with coconut milk, chopped macadamia nuts, and some toasted coconut shreds.

Shrimp skewers are an effortless way to amp up your protein intake while also satisfying your cravings. To bring some zing to these little critters, try soaking them in garlicky lime juice infused with chili flakes before garnishing with lush cilantro leaves. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some pineapple chunks for a sweet touch and balance of flavors. Once you've got your skewers ready, grill them up and pair with leafy greens or fluffy rice.

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