Think party food and beach bodies don’t mix? Think again! Here are our 5 ways to “healthy hack” your next summer barbecue:
1. Go “protein style” with your burger
Take a note from In-N-Out’s not-so-secret-menu and go lower-carb version: wrap your beef patty or veggie patty in a large romaine or collard green leaf. Or just eat it atop veggie sides!
2. Pile on the veggies
At the very least, most barbecues will likely have vegetable toppings — lettuce, onion, tomato* — do you need much more for a basic garden salad? — don’t be shy, make a side dish out of it! Of course, if there are full-on vegetable side dishes like grilled zucchini, mushrooms, broccoli, or cauliflower, even better!
3. Condiment wisely
Not all condiments are created equal:
- Enjoy: mustard, guacamole, salsa*, olive oil, lemon
- Avoid: ketchup (added sugar), mayo (inflammatory oils and added sugar), and salad dressings
4. Watermelon: a sweet way to hydrate
Despite its sugar content, watermelon makes a relatively healthy sweet summer treat that provides a huge bonus: water! Of course, it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re out in the sun, but eating watermelon as a healthy dessert or snack can enhance hydration. It also provides important nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene.
5. Try our favorite “detox cocktail”
And speaking of hydration...if you’re looking to stay healthy and lean this summer, our detox cocktail is a great non-alcoholic option that not only gives you a drink that looks good, it actually supports digestion and detoxification!
Detox Cocktail Recipe:
- Club soda
- Bitters (we love Urban Moonshine bitters because they’re organic and don’t have added sugar)
- Lime juice
- Garnish with a citrus wedge
Enjoy!
*Avoid if you’re nightshade-sensitive
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