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A fresh look at a summer favorite

Try a few healthy or vegetarian options when you barbecue.

By Krissy Tripp

Published July 7, 2010

Warm weather and the endless slew of graduation parties seem to bring out the barbecue fan in everyone. Barbecues are a great way to get together with friends and family, especially if they’re poolside or end with a bonfire. They’re laidback, and nobody is worried about their guests destroying the living or dining room.

This season, please guests with more creative options than hamburgers or hot dogs. Note that you should still buy a small pack of these barbecue classics for the unadventurous in the bunch. If money is no object, go the simplest route and have better cuts of meat. But, this is still completely uncreative and leaves any vegetarians in attendance unsatisfied.

Trust me, if you have any vegetarians in attendance, they’ll love seeing a few non-meat options being thrown on the grill. Most vegetarians have been that person swarming the chip table wishing someone had brought a vegetable platter while they watch everyone else chow down on the unidentifiable meat Americans label ‘hot dogs.’

With that in mind, try coming up with side dishes that have more healthy contents than a fried potato. The classic fruit or vegetable dish paired with ranch or vanilla yogurt for dipping is simple, and most grocers sell these plates pre-made if you don’t want to waste time slicing. Try creating a large salad and having a variety of dressings on hand. Potato or pasta salad will also work if you want a more filling side dish.

Kabobs are a great option if you’re having a smaller gathering because it allows guests to have more creative control. Buy a variety of meats and vegetables to cut into chunks. Put everything on a picnic table near the skewers and allow guests to create their own meal. Who can be picky when they’ve created their own meal?

If you’re feeling extra generous toward your guests, allow them to choose their marinade as well. Try classic barbecue, teriyaki and a lemon butter sauce. If your chosen foods won’t mesh well with one of these, you can always add a citrus or garlic marinade. Be sure to have a brush for each so the flavors don’t mix as your guests try to add some additional flavor to their skewer.

If you’re opposed to eating food off a skewer, the same idea works if you wrap the food in tin foil and set it on the grill. All the flavors blend together, but it’s a messy alternative even with a fork.

If you prefer something that can be put on a bun, try salmon patties. Mix canned salmon (or tuna, if you prefer) in a bowl with whatever spices you choose. I like onion and parsley, but any seasoning you choose should work. Mash the mixture into patties and cook until brown.

If you’re more worried about taste than health, mix canned tuna with original potato chips. The thinner the chip, the better for this recipe. It’s basically all the salt you should eat in a day and high in calories, but it’s delicious, so balance it out with healthier sides.