Grilling, the Healthy Alternative!

In addition to being a fun summertime activity, grilling foods can sometimes be a healthy alternative from cooking stovetop. Grilling doesn’t much fat into the food and often preserves meats and vegetables without sacrificing essential nutrients.

There are many ways you can turn your grilling into a flavorful and fun way to cook, but also into a healthy way to eat. By choosing foods that are low in fat, high in nutrients and full of flavor you can create great meals that are also healthy. A marinade containing olive oil and/or citrus juices can add lots of flavor to meats and vegetables and also contribute as a tenderizer for meats.

Recently scientists at the Food Safety Consortium project at Kansas State University have discovered that Basil, Mint, Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano, and Sage used in marinades reduced free radicals dramatically. This is good news and a great reason to grill with flavor.

Next time you are at a local market, pick up some fresh herbs and flavored olive oils and prepare a rustic meal. Not only will it be delicious, but healthier too! If you buy lean cuts, use light marinades and serve up your grilled foods with a good helping of fruits and vegetables then you will really be grilling healthy.