It’s summer time and you know what that means! It’s BBQ season!! Chowin’ down on some BBQ classics and spending time with family and friends! If you have food sensitivities, allergies, or just choose to eat more healthful, this event may sound more stressful than fun. Not to worry though! You can have a great time while still feeding yourself delicious, nourishing food. It doesn’t have to be complicated!
Here are my top 5 tips for enjoying the next BBQ you attend this summer without fretting about what to eat!
1. Offer to bring food
That’s pretty simple, right? When you’ve been invited to a friend’s or family member’s home for a party, ask what kind of food they’ll be serving and if you can bring anything. By asking what the host will be serving, you can get a good idea of what choices will be available to you and what might be missing. Offer to bring a dish or two that are made from ingredients that you know are healthful for you, and can also be enjoyed by the crowd. You’ll be comfortable knowing there are at least a few dishes to choose from for yourself! And really, what host wouldn’t be happy to have some help with the food!
2. BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage)
Depending on the crowd, you can almost be sure there will be soda, beer and possibly some water in that cooler outside. If you’re unsure about what your choices are, bring your own beverages! I like to take some kombucha or sparkling water with me, and if I’m in the mood I’ll bring some hard cider as well. Just remember that cider has a lot of sugar, so you’ll want to keep this to a minimum. If you’ve always been one to reach for a beer or something fruity in the past, having additional options available to you that are more than just good ol’ water can keep things feeling festive. PS You still need to drink water 😉
3. Pre-funk munching
Maybe you don’t have much of a clue of what your choices will be. Have something to eat before you leave for the party! This will help keep your tummy not so grumbly when you arrive. Trying to make healthy choices when you’re starving doesn’t always play out for the best. Set yourself up for success and plan ahead. Have a clean protein bar like Epic bars or Rxbars handy in case you do get hungry later on.
4. Scope out the real food
So all the food is out on the table and you’re ready to dig in! Hold on one sec and consider these recommendations when scoping out the spread.
- Look for the protein such as a burger patty, sausage or chicken. If you’re not sure what the sausage ingredients are, you’re likely safer with a plain burger. Skip the bun and check out the burger fixings for lettuce, tomato, onion and maybe some avocado! Pile it up!
- Scan for the unadulterated veggies and fruit. If you see a salad with a white creamy dressing, it may contain dairy or mayonnaise made from canola oil. If you know you’re sensitive to either of these, it’s best to stay clear. (I always recommend avoiding canola oil when at all possible.) Fill your plate up with cut veggies and fruit if they’re available!
- Skip the chips, unless they have some of Jackson’s Honest chips! They taste great, and they’re a much healthier alternative to the standard potato chips fried in damaged canola and soy bean oil. If that’s not an option, opt for veggie sticks for a crunch. Heck even if they have Jackson’s Honest chips available, still throw on some veggie sticks.
5. Just chill
Last, but certainly not least… relax! Enjoy your time spent with family and friends and don’t sweat the small stuff. Stressing out about it will not make you feel any better, both emotionally and physically. Be prepared and take care of yourself so you can have a great time!
Understanding how particular foods treat you gives you a whole lot of power in making choices that are right for you. Don’t beat yourself up for eating something that maybe doesn’t fall into your healthy habits. It’s just one meal. By all means though, if you have a severe sensitivity or allergy to a particular food, it’s in your best interest to avoid it. After all, that’s doing what’s best for you, right!?
Ultimately, it’s your decision! You do what’s best for you!
You totally got this!
Do you have a go-to dish you love to bring to parties? Let me know what it is in the comments!