Low Carb and Low Fat Ideas for Your Barbecue This Independence Day

Independence Day became a legal holiday in 1941. Since then, fireworks, parades and picnics have become the festive way most towns celebrate this patriotic holiday. It's a fun filled day for the entire family. Hot dogs, hamburgers, and baked beans are served as naturally as Turkey on Thanksgiving. According to History.com, 150 million hot dogs are estimated to be eaten this Fourth of July. Many of us anticipate a happy stomach at our upcoming barbecues. However, we don't have to sacrifice our health on this holiday. If you are looking for some ways to cut down the fat and carbohydrates, here are some great ideas.

Make sure to buy the leanest beef for your hamburgers. Ground chuck is usually the best choice. If unsure ask the employee in the meat section for advice. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Mix ground up turkey with your hamburger meat. Mixing half turkey and half beef is a good percentage to go by. The smoked flavor from the grill helps disguise the turkey and most people put so many condiments on their burger they won't be able to tell! A-1 is an excellent marinade to put on when the burgers are put on the grill. A good brush of this sauce on each side will delight your taste buds.

Substitute vegetarian hot dogs instead of the regular hot dogs. "Yves Jumbo Dogs" are tasty and a good choice for eating low in fat. Just because something is labeled "vegetarian" doesn't mean it tastes bad. If you can't find these at your grocery store, you can find them at your local health food store. It's worth the extra trip.

Ask your guests if they would like a bun with the hamburger or hot dog. Just asking this question will bring out the health conscious side of some people.

Make a Jell-O fluff with sugar-free jell and sugar-free cool whip. Kids love this recipe. Make your Jell-O first and let it become firm in the fridge. Then just add one container of cool whip for each box of Jell-O you have made. Whip it with your electric mixer set on low until mixed most of the way. Finish it off set on medium. Now just cover it and put it back in the fridge until you are ready to go to your barbecue. This is a light dessert everyone will enjoy. Other parent's will thank you for not adding sugar to an already exciting day for their children.

Instead of bringing potato or tuna salad that is loaded with carbohydrates, bring a pasta-free salad. Cucumber or fruit salads are good choices.

These ideas can be incorporated in your regular meals for your family through out the year too. Don't be afraid to try something new. Your family will thank you for it.

Have a safe, healthy and happy Independence Day.

Source

http://www.history.com/minisite.do?content_type=Minisite_Generic&content_type_id=692&display_order=2&mini_id=1075