Summer Sizzle

Put it back into your summer barbecue.

There is still plenty of time for summer barbecues, but the menu can so often be so saturated with fat, that you won't even want to consider it. Here are a few little secrets to let you plan what you eat, and not feel guilty.

Hot Dogs
Good quality weiners haven't the fat content that they once did, but there are a few other things to be aware of. First of all, did you know that one hot dog bun is equivalent to two slices of bread? And try to get away from or cut down on the relish. It is incredibly high in salt.

Forget The Weiner
Who said that you even have to use meat as part of your hot dog. I have seen varieties that offered tangy beans instead. Full of fibre and a lot less fat.

Picnic Sandwiches
Forget the fat laden spreads and whip up your own. Start with yogurt and stir in a few tablespoons of pesto.

Salads
Tear up fresh spinach and then toss with grilled peaches that have been caramelized with a little honey. Doesn't get much better than this.

Watermelon
What barbecue would be complete without slices of juicy watermelon. And please, no salt. Actually, I was introduced to salt sprinkled watermelon years ago when the dangers of salt weren't as well known as they are today.

Drink Up
Instead of bottled sodas, offer fresh homemade lemonade. You won't believe what you have been missing all these years, and you can make it as tangy as YOU like. Don't forget lots of lemon and lime slices.