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8 Grill-Ready Alternatives That Will Make Your Barbecues Healthier This Summer

There are a few things that are synonymous with summer, swimming pools, beaches, vacations and firing up the grill. Sure there are your grill staples such as burgers, hot dogs and ribs, but what about those who crave a healthier way to indulge in the grilling festivities?

There are a few things that are synonymous with summer, swimming pools, beaches, vacations and firing up the grill. Sure there are your grill staples such as burgers, hot dogs and ribs, but what about those who crave a healthier way to indulge in the grilling festivities? Well, look no further because there are a host of veggie recipes that are grill-approved and the perfect way to enjoy something equally delicious and healthy. So this summer, sit back, relax and get ready to dive into your veggies in creative and tasty new ways!

Grilled Eggplant and Roasted Red Pepper Sandwich with Halloumi -
http://www.closetcooking.com/2012/09/grilled-eggplant-and-roasted-red-pepper.html?m=1

Here’s a grilled sandwich recipe that is sure to linger on your taste buds even after the last bite. Grilled eggplant and roasted red peppers are generously topped with Halloumi cheese, tomatoes, salad greens and delicious basil-pesto sauce.

Portobello and Peach Burger - http://www.greenkitchenstories.com/portobello-peach-burger-for-designsponge/

At first glance the thought of combining peaches and Portobello mushrooms may seem like quite the odd pairing. However when you add other complementary ingredients, you’re in for a tasty surprise. Other ingredients for these “burgers” include: sweet potatoes, pea sprouts, tomatoes, spring onions, thyme and avocados. The savory and sweet combinations offer up a great contrast.

Tandoori-Grilled Broccoli and Cauliflower Kebabs - http://www.veggiebelly.com/2010/07/tandoori-grilled-broccoli-and-cauliflower-kebabs.html

The traditional Indian flavors of these kebabs are guaranteed to be the hit of your next backyard soiree. The veggies are the dominate aspect of this dish, but it’s the Tandoori marinade that steals the spotlight. The final result is smoky, charred flavor that livens up the palate.

Black Bean-Quinoa Burgers with Spicy Mayo, Avocado and Mango -
http://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a43057/best-black-bean-quinoa-burgers-recipe/

Burger alternatives are certainly nothing new to the grilling scene, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still find creative recipes floating around. With this one, you have a familiar black bean-quinoa burger, however it’s what tops it that is worthy of a try. The spicy mayo, avocado and mango are a mishmash of flavors that complement and contrast equally, and your taste buds reap the benefits.

Grilled Potato Salad with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette -
http://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a34965/grilled-potato-salad-blue-cheese-vinaigrette-recipe-ghk0712/

Potato salad is a summertime, barbecue staple and there are dozens of ways to prepare it, but perhaps this might be the best way yet. Take your potatoes for a spin on the grill for a little smokiness to your potato salad and finish it off with some homemade blue cheese vinaigrette dressing.

Sriracha-Grilled Tofu - http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sriracha-grilled-tofu

If you like your food on the spicy side, then this Sriracha-heavy recipe is definitely for you. As you grill your tofu to perfection, apply a generous amount of Sriracha sauce. It’s hard to put into words just how the spicy, smoky flavors taste, but you won’t quickly forget it.

Veggie-Grilled Pizza - http://www.myrecipes.com/m/recipe/veggie-grilled-pizza

Everyone loves pizza, and veggie pizza is just as good as anything featuring tons of meat. This veggie-filled beauty is the pizza that you can indulge in and not feel guilty. Featuring eggplant, zucchini, red bell pepper, mint, garlic, thyme and Fontina cheese, you’ll want to eat pizza every day after a single bite.

Barbecue-Baked Sweet Potatoes - http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/11225/barbecue-baked-sweet-potatoes

Baked potatoes always seem to hit the spot, but sweet potatoes hit the spot and are healthier for you. In this version, you have baked sweet potatoes with a BBQ twist and it is delicious. There are only four ingredients (sweet potatoes, olive oil, Greek yogurt and spring onion), but the taste of the smoky grill lingers for a memorable finish.

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