When the sun’s shining, there’s nothing better than firing up the BBQ for an epic summer feast. According to 28th National BBQ Week, three out of four UK households now own some type of BBQ grill. 

While classic barbecue fare like hot dogs, saucy ribs, and juicy burgers can be hard to resist, they’re not always the healthiest options. 

If you’re looking for ideas on guilt-free BBQ dishes to enjoy at your next summer BBQ, you’re in the right place. 

Read on for delicious ideas on how to satisfy your barbecue cravings without the guilt!

Healthy BBQ ideas and recipes

Load up on protein

Instead of reaching for fatty meats like beef burgers and sausages, opt for leaner protein-packed choices such as chicken breasts, turkey burgers, fish fillets, or portobello mushroom caps. 

These options allow you to savour that fresh off-the-grill taste without overdoing the saturated fat. They will also keep you feeling fuller for longer. 

Best of all, they don’t need much preparation. Just brush on a little olive oil and season with your favourite herbs and spices.

Add grilled veggies

Loading up your plate with grilled veggies is an easy way to add vitamins, minerals and fibre to your BBQ.

Simply slice up some colourful peppers, courgettes, and red onions, toss them with a bit of oil and seasoning, and grill them until tender.

Another option is to serve a few vegetable kebabs. To prepare, just skewer some bite-sized pieces of mushroom, pineapple, and cherry tomatoes.

If you like corn on the cob, brush it with butter or olive oil before grilling for a rich, smoky flavour. 

Lay off the bread

BBQs often involve a bread overload! If you still want to enjoy bread as part of your BBQ, try these low-carb, low-sugar hamburger buns. 

Looking for a unique twist on the traditional burger? Swap out the bread bun for a grilled portobello mushroom cap and top it with lettuce, tomatoes, hummus, or avocado. 

Alternatively, serve your burger on a bed of fresh greens for a low-carb “burger salad.”

Upgrade your sauces

The Skinny Food Co.’s collection of low-calorie sauces, dressings and condiments makes it easy to indulge in your favourite foodie flavours without the guilt! 

From brown sauce and tomato ketchup to mayonnaise and Caesar dressing, these low-calorie options are a must-have for your next summer BBQ. 

Don’t forget dessert!

Fruit caramelised on the grill is an irresistible treat that’s quick and simple to prepare - we’re thinking juicy peach halves, thick pineapple rings and creamy bananas. (Top tip: Leave the bananas in their skins before grilling!) 

Wrap your fruit in foil and grill it until perfectly softened. Serve it with a hearty dollop of protein-packed Greek yoghurt and a sprinkle of coconut or cinnamon. 

Serve sugar-free cocktails or mocktails

It’s easy to create deliciously healthy cocktails (or mocktails!) with these sugar-free cocktail mixers from The Skinny Food Co. All you have to do is add three parts of the mixer to one part spirit and blend with ice. Available in Mojito, Pornstar Martini, Sex on the Beach and Margarita flavours, why not grab one of each flavour for your next summer party?

With so many delicious options for your next summer BBQ, what are you waiting for? Invite your friends over, fire up the grill, and enjoy flavoursome, guilt-free BBQ foods this summer.