Happy 4th of July

Did you know that during the week leading up to the 4th of July approximately 700 million pounds of chicken and 190 million pounds of red meat/pork are purchased? On July 4th itself, 150 million hot dogs are consumed.  That doesn't sound to healthy or appetizing does it? 

How about if we keep it healthy this year with these simple tips. 

1. Include vegetables with your meat preparations.  Cut up some zucchini, bell peppers, squash, onions, tomatoes or any other vegetable that you would like to have and place the slices on the grill for a quick addition to the grilled meat. Use smaller slices of the vegetables and make Kabobs with meat and vegetables, that way each person gets a healthy serving.

2. Choose a meat that is lower in fat.  Throw some more chicken on the grill and take off some of those large hamburgers. Choose a lower in fat ground meat. They sell 85/15 and 95/5 ground meat that can be extremely healthy compared to the full fat meat. By adding some seasonings and getting creative, the lack of grease may be replaced with a sense of enjoyment for your taste-buds. If you are not looking to cut out the fat in the hamburgers, consider making smaller hamburgers or "sliders" for a portion controlled meal.   

3. Skip the high fat desserts and go for the healthy treats.  Instead of something that will make your already full stomach, a bit more full, consider having something that is light and festive but filling.  How about trying some grilled fruit or better yet some ice cold watermelon?

Have a Safe and Fun 4th of July Celebration!