Sizzle Smarter: Easy Ways to Make Your BBQ Better For You

25 Jan 2022
Family sharing a healthy meal

Summer’s here, and that means one thing – BBQ season! But what if you could enjoy all the deliciousness of a classic barbecue while doing something good for your health AND supporting cancer research?  

With a few simple swaps, you can throw a BarbeCURE® that’s both tasty and better for you. 

1. Give Your BBQ a Healthy Glow Up

olive oil and herbs
Grilling doesn’t have to mean greasy burgers and overcooked sausages. Go for leaner meats like skinless chicken or fish, and if you’re having red meat, keep portions small and trim the fat. Marinate it in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs to add flavour without the extra salt and sugar. Bonus: marinating helps reduce those nasty compounds that can form when meat is grilled at high temperatures! 

2. Veggies: Not Just a Sidekick

Grilled vegetables
Veggies deserve more than just a sad side salad! Get them on the grill – think corn on the cob, juicy tomatoes, zucchinis, peppers, mushrooms, eggplant … the list goes on. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can take them to the next level. Trust us, you won’t even miss the meat! 

3. Go Big on Seafood

Grilled salmon
Grilled fish is seriously underrated at BBQs. Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and trout are packed with omega-3s, and they cook up beautifully on the grill. Wrap them in foil with some lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs for a super easy (and super tasty) dish. 

4. Try Some Meat-Free Magic

Plant-based BBQs are having a moment, and there are so many great options now. Swap out processed meats for plant-based sausages or burgers (Vegie Delights has some cracking ones), or throw some chickpea patties or marinated tofu on the grill. More plants = more fibre, more nutrients, and a happier planet. 

5. Rethink Your Drinks

healthy mocktails
We get it – a cold beer or glass of wine is a BBQ staple. But did you know cutting back on alcohol can reduce your cancer risk? Try mixing things up with homemade iced teas, fresh fruit spritzers, or even kombucha. You’ll stay hydrated and wake up feeling fresh the next day – win-win! 

6. Serve Up Smarter Sides & Desserts

Healthy dips

Ditch the shop-bought crisps and creamy dips in favour of hummus, guacamole, or nut-based dips with crunchy veggie sticks and wholegrain crackers. And when it comes to dessert, keep it simple with fresh summer fruits – watermelon, berries, mangoes… they’re sweet, refreshing, and naturally packed with goodness. 

By making a few of these swaps, you can throw a BarbeCURE® that’s fun, delicious, and better for everyone. Fire up the grill, enjoy the sunshine, and feel good knowing you’re supporting an amazing cause!