Ten Healthy Barbecue Recipes

Grilled Shrimp via Shutterstock

The sun is finally out, which means that the grills soon will be too. It’s nearly barbecue season, and though these parties are a delicious way to gather your loved ones, they also usually mean a sacrifice in your diet. They don’t have to be though; here our some guilt-free barbecue recipes that’ll be certain to put your grill to good use. 

1. Peach BBQ Sauce
via Girl Makes Food

When it comes to barbecues, the right sauce is key. Since store-bought sauces are very high in sugar, try making it yourself. This recipe uses peaches to create a healthy and natural sweetener. Use this recipe with anything you decide to grill whether it be chicken, pork, or even tofu.

2. Hawaiian BBQ Salmon Burgers
via Half Baked Harvest

This Hawaiian BBQ Salmon Burger will be sure to make you feel like you’re in the tropics. For a healthier version feel free to eliminate the cheese, the recipe is flavorful enough without it, and use the peach BBQ sauce (listed above) instead of store-bought sauce.

3. Californian Hot Dog
via In My Red Kitchen

Can’t get enough Fenway Franks? Give this healthy version a chance. This hot dog recipe uses spinach and avocado to help fill you up and add extra nutritional value. For an even healthier version, skip the extra mayo (the avocado is a sufficient replacement anyways).

4. Grilled Corn Salad
via Damn Delicious

Nothing says barbecue quite like corn on the cob. This light salad tosses grilled corn, avocado, and cherry tomatoes in a light vinaigrette to make the perfect side salad for your burger.

5. Grilled Moroccan Vegetable Skewers
via Natasha’s Kitchen

Give your all-American barbecue a Moroccan flair with these vegetable skewers. The tangy marinade is made flavorful by spices, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Combine this with the delicious char of the grill and these will be veggies you’ll actually want to eat.

6. Lentil Burgers
via The Hot Plate Community

Barbecues aren’t just for meat lovers anymore, these high-protein lentil burgers will give your vegetarian friends something delicious and healthy to munch on, other than potato salad.

7. Cumin Zucchini Turkey Burger with Cilantro Aioli
via Ifoodreal

Here’s a burger you won’t feel guilty about indulging in. This low-cal burger uses turkey as a lean alternative to beef. Also the aioli is made healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of egg yolk and olive oil.

8. Grilled Sweet Potato and Wilted Kale Salad
via Tasty Yummies

Potato salad is a classic barbecue side dish, yet instead of the typical mayo-drenched version, try this lighter alternative. This sweet potato and wilted kale salad is prepared right on the grill and is gluten free and vegan.

9. Grilled Mojito Shrimp Skewers
via Ifoodreal

This grilled shrimp uses rum for that extra zing, as well as tangy lemon and fresh mint. With only about 8 calories per skewer you can feel free to take two (or even three).

10. Easy BBQ Chicken
via Gluten Free Fix

Looking for a crowd-pleaser to bring to a barbecue party? Instead of pulled pork, take the healthier route and make this easy pulled chicken recipe, which uses pineapple for a delicious tangy flavor. This recipe is gluten free, dairy free, sugar free, and Paleo friendly.