14 Healthy Grilled Recipes to Keep Your Summer Menu Exciting (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest grilling method? ›

And that is a big plus, because research has shown that grilling with gas is thought to be safer than grilling over charcoal, according to Healthline. There is less smoke and heat with gas grilling – two things that can spur the creation of those cancer-causing compounds.

Grilling is a cooking method that involves placing food, typically meat or vegetables, on a grill or grate over an open flame or heat source. Common foods cooked by grilling include: 1. **Meat:** Steaks, burgers, sausages, chicken breasts, pork chops, and kebabs are popular choices for grilling.

Virtually all cooking on gas and/or charcoal grills can be divided into three cooking methods: direct, indirect or combo. As the names imply, the difference between the methods is determined by where the food is placed in relation to the fire. The DIRECT method cooks foods with the direct heat of the flame.

Nutritional Advantages

Additionally, since grilling doesn't require additional fat to cook the food, you can eat delicious grilled meats without adding unnecessary calories or fat grams to your diet.

Choose a Lean Protein, Preferably Chicken

Barbecue restaurants usually serve a variety of meats like baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork, spareribs and grilled chicken. Your best option is to stick with grilled chicken. It may not look as appealing as the brisket, but chicken is delicious when done right.

Cook Low and Slow:

One of the secrets to perfectly grilled meat is cooking it low and slow over indirect heat. This method allows the flavors to develop slowly while keeping the meat tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.

Is it healthier to grill with gas or charcoal? ›

When it comes to your health and the planet's health, however, propane is the clear winner. It all boils down to carcinogens that end up in your food and the fact that charcoal tends to be dirtier, and that propane's carbon footprint is much smaller carbon.

Embracing Lean and Nutritious BBQ Meats

Opting for lean cuts of poultry, such as skinless chicken breast or turkey, can significantly reduce saturated fat intake. Fish, like salmon or tuna, are excellent options as they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health.