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Are you ready to fire up the grill this summer without compromising your health goals? Our mouthwatering collection of summer grilling recipes offers the perfect balance of bold flavors and nutritious ingredients that will transform your backyard cookouts. From sizzling lean proteins to vibrant vegetable skewers caramelized to perfection, these dishes celebrate the best of seasonal produce while keeping calories in check. Whether you're hosting a neighborhood barbecue, planning a family gathering, or simply enjoying dinner al fresco, these recipes will help you make the most of the grilling season while maintaining a wholesome diet. Say goodbye to heavy, fat-laden grilled options and discover how deliciously satisfying healthy grilling can be!
No summer party is complete without Summer Salsa!
Why Choose Healthy Summer Grilling?
Grilling is one of the healthiest cooking methods available. When you grill, excess fat drips away from the food, resulting in leaner meals. Plus, grilling preserves nutrients in vegetables that might be lost through other cooking methods. Our summer grilling recipes emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients that deliver maximum flavor and nutrition.
Our Favorite Clean Summer Grilling Recipes
Honey Glazed Grilled Chicken
One of our favorite grilled recipes is this Grilled Honey Glazed Chicken. The honey caramelizes and creates a deep rich flavor while keeping the chicken juicy. This excellent weekend meal can be paired with any grilled veggies - especially grilled bell peppers. It’s as easy to make as it is delicious. We like to use legs, but feel free to use chicken breasts if you prefer. Try our glaze with any grilled meat (it'd be delicious on fish like grilled salmon and grilled swordfish) or veggie to spice it up!
Honey Grilled Chicken Kebabs
Get your skewers ready! Our Grilled Honey Chicken Kebabs are a classic for healthy grilling recipes. This lean protein option features a zesty herb marinade that infuses the grilled chicken with Mediterranean flavors. The marinade uses olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, making it one of our most popular summer grilling recipes for family gatherings. Dip it in some homemade salsa verde and sprinkle with lime juice for an extra special touch.
Grilled Honey BBQ Brisket
This BBQ Brisket recipe made with our special Honey BBQ Sauce is a hearty way to feed weekend guests. When simmered with indirect heat, the brisket is moist and tender. Great for sandwiches. One of our favorites is a brisket sandwich served with healthy Homemade Slaw. Any fresh salad would taste delicious with this sweet and savory recipe. This recipe would be especially good in a bowl with pineapple.
Grilled Artichokes
The grill doesn't just have to be reserved for meat. Artichokes are a delicacy that you definitely shouldn’t pass up. They dazzle your guests. Our Grilled Artichokes with Thai Honey Vinaigrette take a little bit of prep work to get ready, but they’re delicious and very well worth the time. Sprinkle some goat cheese on top to add your own touch - it tastes delicious with the soy sauce in the vinaigrette. Try the vinaigrette on grilled corn too.
Grilled Summer Vegetables with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Grilled Summer Vegetables are healthy and quick to prepare, and with the summer harvest in full swing, you have many options to choose from. This dish’s beauty is that you can’t mess it up! Our recipe is made with bell peppers, squash, zucchini, green beans, mushrooms, and red onion. Feel free to add your own favorite veggies as well, like juicy tomatoes! Our guests go crazy over thick-cut onions on the grill. It reminds them of onion rings without any of the unhealthy parts.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
These Grilled Corn on the Cobs are an easy dish that help take the stress out of planning get-togethers. Just toss them on the grill and go! They serve as the perfect combination with any main course you can think of. If you would like, feel free to add butter, salt, and pepper on top! Want to turn up the heat a notch? Try sprinkling some cayenne pepper on top.
Honey Grilled Peaches
Honey Grilled Peaches are our favorite. Caramelized on the grill with our Eastern Shore Honey, the flavors come together and offer a wonderful refreshment to your palette. Brown sugar is normally used for grilled fruits, but we think that honey works so much better. Serve with your favorite ice cream or sorbet.
Tips for Successful Healthy Grilling
- Preheat your grill properly - A properly heated grill prevents sticking and ensures proper cooking of your summer grilling recipes.
- Use marinades wisely - Marinades add flavor without excessive calories when you choose ingredients like citrus juices, vinegars, and fresh herbs.
- Keep food safety in mind - Always use a meat thermometer to ensure proteins reach proper temperatures.
- Don't forget about fruits and vegetables - Produce caramelizes beautifully on the grill, enhancing natural sweetness without added sugar.
- Consider grilling tools - Invest in a good grill basket for smaller items like vegetables to prevent them from falling through the grates.
Serve refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad alongside your grilled foods
Healthy Meals All Summer Long
These summer grilling recipes prove that nutritious eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. By focusing on lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and proper grilling techniques, you can create memorable outdoor meals all season long. Try these recipes at your next cookout and discover how delicious healthy grilling can be.
Our Eastern Shore Honey varietals are perfect for these recipes
FAQs About Healthy Summer Grilling
What makes grilling a healthy cooking method?
Grilling allows fat to drip away from food and preserves nutrients in vegetables, making it one of the healthier cooking options for your summer grilling recipes.
Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
Many marinades work best when prepared ahead, and vegetables can be cut in advance. However, for best results, cook just before serving.
Are these recipes suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Our collection includes options for various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives among our summer grilling recipes.
What sides pair well with these grilled main dishes?
Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and whole grains like quinoa or farro complement these main dishes perfectly.
How can I ensure my grilled meats don't dry out?
Using marinades, not overcooking, and allowing meat to rest after grilling helps maintain moisture in your summer grilling recipes.
