BBQs, the Aussie Outdoor Experience!

Nothing says summer quite like the sweet-smoky flavour of a backyard BBQ. It's time to grab your tongs, fire up the grill, and get cooking! Steaks, sausages, and burgers are what typically come to mind – but why not try and mix it up this summer with a variety of veggies on the side and even grilled fruit for dessert!!

Benefits of the good old fashioned BBQ:

1. Grilled meats tend to have a reduced fat content compared to frying or baking as the fat drips off as the food cooks.
2. Vegetables require shorter cooking times on the grill and are able to retain more of their vitamins and minerals. It’s all in the flip, flip and serve!
3. Food’s flavour is better retained, so you can use less calorie-packed condiments.
4. The possibilities are endless! Vegetables that were made for the grill include pumpkin, potato, corn on the cob, asparagus, mushrooms, eggplant, capsicum, tomato and onion. Fruits such as pineapple, apples and peaches will caramelise up nicely too.

Try our perfect BBQ Recipe: Fajitas with Marinated Beef Skewers & Char Grilled Chili Corn Recipe

Top tips:

• For even grilling, cut fruit and vegetables into uniform sizes. To prevent small pieces from slipping through the grill racks, use skewers or wrap in foil.
• Most vegetables cook better and are less likely to stick if marinated first or brushed lightly with cooking oil. For added flavour, sprinkle grilled vegetables with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.

Try something different for dessert…

Stone fruits are in season so cut a peach or nectarine in half and grill for around 4 minutes each side. Top with low fat yoghurt or ricotta and sprinkle with cinnamon. It’s seriously out of this world!

You can also try colourful fruit kebabs that the kids will go crazy for!

This article contains general information. Please consult your healthcare professional for specific advice for your personal situation.