It’s that time of year again! It is summer. You know what that means right? Sun, being outside, pool, lake, and…...cookouts! There is just something about the smell of a grill going that really gets you excited for summer because grilling means food and usually lots of it. If you are looking for a way to eat healthy at cookouts this summer, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of healthy alternatives you can make and bring instead of the not so healthy stuff you know will be present. Make sure to grab our Fat Burning Guide to help you tweak your current routine to see massive fat burning results. So let’s take a look at the best things you can do for yourself by eating healthy at cookouts this summer.

Tips for a Healthy Summer Cookout

1. Go Bunless.

One of the easiest ways to cut out unwanted calories and unhealthy carbs is to just ditch the bun. Since buns are lacking in any nutritional value, pass on the bun and load up your grilled food with flavor like fresh garden veggies. You could also use lettuce as a wrap that will allow you to eat with all of the yummy stuff you top on a burger.

2. Grill Veggie kabob.

Veggie Kabobs are a great way to get that grilled flavor on your veggies. They are easy to make and don’t take very long to cook. Everyone can add their own favorite veggies and the options are endless.

3. Add Greens to Burger Patties.

Since we talked about ditching your bun, here is where you can make up for it by adding in some veggies. Top with lettuce, tomato, onions, and lettuce to get in those extra veggies to help you feel full. Do you have picky eaters at your house? How about sneak some veggies in the actual burger patty for the win! Wrapping your burger in romaine lettuce will also allow you to eat it as if you did have a bun to hold it all together.

4. Make a Summer Salad.

Summer is a great time of the year for snatching up delicious vegetables. Gardens and stores abound with yummy veggies you can turn into a summer salad. There are so many vegetables in season right now that each time you make a salad you will be able to add new things. There won't be any way to get bored as you swap out new vegetables.

5. Make Flavored Water using Fresh Fruit.

Cookouts are known for soda and beer. But unfortunately, neither of those things are going to help you if you are staying healthy. And as much as we know how good water is for us, it can still get boring. Instead of flavoring it with packets that have who knows what in them, try adding fresh fruit to flavor your water. Along with vegetables, fresh fruit abounds this time of year, giving you lots of options for what you can try. A simple Pinterest search will result in plenty of options to keep you satisfied this summer. My personal favorites are watermelon water and orange infused water.

6. Make or Take Healthy Desserts

Dessert is probably where all good intentions go awry. Even if you make it through the meal with healthy options, dessert can quickly derail your plans. Plan ahead for yourself by making and taking a healthy dessert option. Frozen fruit is a great way to get some sugar without all the other junk. Fruit popsicle, frozen yogurt with fruit. There are so many fruit options that you can use. Experiment and see what you like the best.

7. Stay Away/Go Play.

If you feel like you are going to want to indulge, it’s time to step away from the table. Bring some yard games, grab a friend, and get moving. Not only will you be not eating, you will be moving as well. Maybe you just want to sit in the shade and watch the kids play. Keeping your distance from the food will allow you to not be tempted.

Healthy Summer Cookout

It is totally possible to enjoy cookouts this summer by planning ahead. Some simple substitutions with all the seasonal produce will allow you to eat well and not feel like you have to sacrifice. Put those fruits and veggies to use. Use them in your side dishes, on your main course, in your drinks and you’ll have a great time staying healthy at cookouts this summer. Don't forget to click the button below to receive your fat burning guide to help kickstart your summer weight-loss goals! [button link="https://burnfatandfeast.com/fat-burning-guide/"] Download the Fat Burning Guide![/button]

What is your favorite healthy treat to enjoy in the summer?