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Guilt-free Memorial Day Grilling

Posted By: Blair on 05/23/2011

Well, it's an odd day of the month for me to be making a post; but, I figured we have the holiday weekend coming up and I may as well take advantage to throw a few tips out there.  As you know, Memorial Day Weekend (or week for the lucky among us) is a huge cookout holiday.  Although grilling is a much healthier option than say, FRYING, there are some things you may want to keep in mind before you head to Costco to stock up for your festivities:

• Buy natural meats:  pastured-raised, free-range, grass-fed, organic, antibiotic and hormone free are all phrases you want to look for when purchasing your meats.  When it comes to seafood, look for wild-caught as opposed to farm-raised.
• Don't overcook your meats:  Charred meat is, believe or not, cancer causing if consumed often.  This is avoidable if you cook steaks medium-rare and let the meat rest or removing any charring after removed from the grill, like with chicken.
• Accessorize:  Don't forget that just because you're cooking on the grill that you still need to have your vegetables!  Most any hearty vegetables can hold up to the flame, just brush with a little olive oil, add salt and pepper and you're good to go!
• Have a good time:  Dining, especially grilling, is a social activity that is great for stress reduction.  Just keep in mind that consuming too much alcohol can put a damper on your willpower and your ability to stick to healthy eating choices.