Healthy BBQ Recipes for Summer

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor get-togethers, and there's nothing quite like a BBQ to bring friends and family together. While BBQs are often associated with indulgent foods, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a delicious and nutritious spread. Here are some healthy BBQ recipes that are perfect for your summer gatherings, including plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1/4 cup lemon juice

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  2. Marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

  4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.

  5. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables.

2. Veggie Skewers with Tofu

Ingredients:

  • 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed

  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks

  • 1 zucchini, sliced

  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, salt, and pepper.

  2. Marinate the tofu cubes in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.

  4. Thread the tofu, bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.

  5. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

3. Quinoa and Black Bean Burgers (Vegan)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa

  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil for grilling

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork.

  2. Add the cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

  3. Mix well until the ingredients are combined.

  4. Form the mixture into patties.

  5. Preheat the grill to medium heat and brush the grill grates with olive oil.

  6. Grill the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are firm and lightly charred.

4. Grilled Corn with Lime and Chili

Ingredients:

  • 4 ears of corn, husked

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

  2. Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder and salt.

  3. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.

  4. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

5. Watermelon and Feta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed

  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, and mint leaves.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

With these healthy BBQ recipes, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious summer gathering without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re grilling up lemon herb chicken, veggie skewers, quinoa burgers, or savoring a refreshing watermelon salad, these dishes are sure to be a hit with your guests. So fire up the grill and celebrate the season with these wholesome recipes! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @Katruizwellness if you try it out.