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Fourth of July BBQ Alternatives That Won't Ruin Your Diet

Gearing up for the Fourth of July celebrations? If so, you may be planning a BBQ. If you want to keep your weight in check, you’ll definitely want to check out these healthier alternatives.

When it comes time to BBQ for this Fourth of July, it’s important to choose your dishes wisely. This will ensure your diet stays on track and you enjoy yourself at the same time. The following BBQ alternatives will help you do just that.

While there’s nothing wrong with this, sadly it can often lead us to turn to unhealthy options. The great news is that there are plenty of delicious dishes that you can do all on the grill. Here are some great alternatives to consider.

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Rather than serving up potato chips as your side dish, consider grilled sweet potato wedges. Sweet potatoes are loaded with potassium, dietary fiber, and complex carbohydrates, so will give you lasting energy for hours to come.

To prepare this, simply slice the sweet potatoes in large wedges and then coat with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any spices as desired.

Place these in some tin foil, wrap up and then place directly on the grill. Grill for 15-20 minutes or until soft (the larger you slice these, the longer they will take to cook).

Turkey Burgers

Rather than conventional burgers, which you probably realize by now are incredibly high in fat and calories, try some turkey burgers instead. These can taste just as great, especially if brushed with a little low sugar BBQ sauce for added moisture.

To prepare these, combine 1 lb. ground turkey breast with ¼ cup oats, 1 whole egg, 1 diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a little onion soup mix powder to really give them some nice flavor.

Form into four burger patties and then place on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side.

Tuna-Avocado Salad

If you are looking for a creamy salad to serve, try and steer clear of pasta and potato salad. Both are very high in calories and will not do your diet any favors.

Instead, try a tuna-avocado salad. This can be easily be prepared a few hours ahead of time and is ready to go when you are.

To prepare it, open a can of tuna and then to that add a half mashed avocado. Finely dice some red pepper, onion, and celery and then combine that with the salad. Add some garlic, pepper, and salt to taste and then serve with whole wheat crackers on the side.

Home Made Ice Cream

Finally, if you want something for dessert, try and stay away from conventional ice cream, which is loaded with calories, sugar, and fat. Instead, prepare your own.

The night before, blend together 1 cup of low fat, low sugar vanilla yogurt, ¼ cup peanut butter, 1 scoop whey protein powder, 2 tbsp. powdered stevia, and ½ cup light coconut milk. Blend this up until smooth and then place in a 9 by 9-inch baking tray in the freezer until frozen.

Freeze overnight and about 20 minutes prior to serving, take it out and set it on the counter. Let it than for 10-15 minutes and then gently break up the frozen mixture, stirring to create a soft ice cream consistency. It’s a very healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

So there you have a few great options for this coming Fourth of July. How healthy will yours be?

[Image via Shutterstock]

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