July 5, 2017
With Summer underway, and the fourth of July holiday just around the corner, now is the time to be outside grilling and enjoying the sun! For many, hot dogs and burgers are a barbeque go-to, but these summertime classics can get timeworn; not to mention, they aren’t all that healthy. Luckily, there’s an endless number of gilled-meal recipes, available online, that can spice up your barbeque and leave you feeling good afterwards.
Simple Changes Make a Huge Difference
When it comes to selecting a menu, the American Heart Association recommends picking a good protein and opting for healthier side dishes. Consider grilling seafood like salmon, cod, or shrimp instead of red meats that have higher levels of saturated fat. Simply throwing veggies, like zucchini and corn on the grill is easy, delicious, and a healthy alternative to baked beans and potato chips.
Don’t Sacrifice Flavor for Health
Cooking healthier foods doesn’t have to be tedious nor bland-tasting. The Food Network and Eating Well Magazine offer countless simple, fresh, and healthy summer recipes that will change your mind about eating better and help you to kick start new heart-healthy habits. Grilling your meals is fast, plus it helps helps get you outside of the house and away from the TV; allowing you to play and hang out with friends and family while you cook.
Try this simple recipe this week to impress your guests, eat a delicious meal, and enjoy your time cooking outside:
Grilled Salmon with Cucumber and Celery Salad
Recipe from RealSimple.Com
INGREDIENTS
- 1/4cup nonfat yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 1tablespoon white wine vinegar
- kosher salt and black pepper
- 2Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced on the diagonal
- 2ribs celery, thinly sliced on the diagonal
- 1/4cup fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 4small salmon steaks (about 2 pounds)
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Add the cucumbers, celery, and parsley and toss to combine.
- Heat grill to medium-high. Season the salmon with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- Grill the salmon until opaque throughout, 5 to 6 minutes per side. Serve with the salad.