Summer’s here and you’re ready to grill! Yes, burgers and hot dogs are easy but there are plenty of other quick options that are much healthier. Here are my top 4 favorites!
Portabello mushrooms – These are a great alternative to burgers and are so easy! Get the large portabello mushrooms, twist off the stem, brush with balsamic vinegar and/or olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings (steak seasoning, garlic, salt, pepper, etc). Grill on medium high heat until it starts to soften. Towards the end, you can add some cheese if you’d like…goat cheese is my favorite. You can throw it on a bun with some siracha mayo or pesto and dinner is served!
Pizzas – Pizzas are so easy to do on a grill and fun for the kids to make. The simplest way to do it is to purchase premade pizza crusts, naan bread or pitas. Brush both sides with olive oil and grill for a few minutes on each side, remove from grill and top with pizza sauce, your favorite toppings and cheese. Grill on medium heat until the cheese is melting.
Fish Foil Pouches – Steaming fish on the grill with veggies is so healthy and delicious! Take a large piece of foil and spray with cooking spray. Place sliced veggies on the foil (my favorites are zucchini or cabbage), top with fish fillets such as tilapia or swai, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon pepper or your favorite seasoning. Fold in the sides to create a tightly enclosed pouch making sure there’s room for steam as that is how it cooks. Grill on medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes and then let it continue to steam off the grill for 5 minutes before carefully opening the packet. Check out these easy mix and match fish packets!
Grilled fruit – Grilling fruit turns them into sweet, juicy creations perfect for a fun dessert. My favorite is sliced pineapple grilled over medium heat until charred and softened. Pull off the grill, drizzle with honey or maple syrup, sprinkle with cinnamon and serve with whipped cream or a dollop of ice cream. Check out this article for more grilled fruit ideas!
Now you’re ready to fire up your grill and find some new healthy favorites!
By: Shane Von Holten
northlibertycommunitypantry.org 