Beyond Burgers: Fun Foods You Can Grill

It is Labor Day weekend this weekend and I don't know about you but it has got me craving some good BBQ.  Labor Day for me kind of marks the end of summer and makes me realize I need to get that last BBQ in before the weather starts to get cooler.  Burgers and Brats definitely are not the most healthy things you can BBQ, although they are delicious!  But there are still many healthier options that you can cook over your grill, try one of them out this weekend!

Pizza doesn't have to be cooked in an oven.  Grilling your homemade pizza outside gets you out of the hot kitchen.  If you are feeling ambitious you can make your own whole wheat pizza dough or you can just grab a premade one from the store.  Put on your favorite sauce-tomato, BBQ, pesto, plain olive oil-and top with large amounts of vegetables.  To cut back on calories keep your meat portions small, if you put any on at all, and use small amounts of cheese. Part skim mozzarella is a great option!

Here are some yummy options to try:

• Olive oil, minced garlic, diced chicken, fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes
• Barbecue sauce, canned chunk chicken, sliced onions and diced pineapple
• Pesto sauce, canned artichokes, mushrooms and low-fat feta cheese
• Tomato sauce, chopped broccoli, sliced zucchini, banana peppers and sliced tomatoes

Once you have your toppings on, place it on the grill and close the lid.  Keep an eye on it and cook until the cheese is melted.

Fresh Fruit from the grill in the summertime is amazing! The heat of the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit that leaves you with an amazing dessert like dish that is full of fiber and vitamins but without the calories.  Try placing whole bananas or sliced peaches directly on the grill.  Skewer whole strawberries.  Apple, pear and pineapple slices are also great.  Just remember with all fruits that larger is better to help prevent burning.  Pair the fruits with a salad, eat them as is for a sweet side dish, top your protein or indulge in a after dinner treat of frozen yogurt topped with grilled fruit. 

Corn on the cob is usually boiled in a pot of water on the stove top but it can be delicious when put on the grill.  Soak the corn in cold water for 15 minutes and then transfer them to the hot grill with husks intact.  Cook for 3 minutes on one side and then rotate 180 degrees for another 3 minutes.  Then carefully remove the ears and shuck the corn removing husks and silk.  Place the corn on the grill for about 5 minutes rotating frequently.  Your guests will be impressed with the fancy grill marks and the corn and the smoky taste.    The corn will be so sweet and moist you won't need butter or salt!