“Memorial Day has come around again, and that means an unofficial start to the summer season of 2011. Of course, it also signals the start to a season of dangerous eating. From boardwalk fries to funnel cakes to all of those char-grilled items that come off the barbecue, Memorial Day helps to usher in all of them. And sadly, many of them can do a great disservice to your weight loss program.
But just because you’re trying to lose weight doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice those delicious summer treats! We’ve got 5 helpful tips that will allow you to enjoy all of your favorite foods responsibly. Remember: summer doesn’t have to be cruel on your weight loss program!
1. Hot Dog—Hamburgers!
It doesn’t get any better than this—hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill. So why not go ahead and heat your Nutrisystem® Turkey Hot Dog over the flames? And don’t forget to serve it with mustard and a grilled onion (or the Nutrisystem-approved condiment of your choice)! As for burgers, you can prepare your Nutrisystem® Flame Broiled Beef Patty as usual, too, and then put it on the grill for a minute or so—just long enough for it to get a little of that char-grilled flavor, or try electric smoking it for a savory flavor addition. It’s also great with a little fat-free Thousand Island dressing, a slice of tomato and lettuce. Add a slice of fat-free cheese, and you’ve sacrificed nothing. And don’t let the buns throw you off—just grab the whole-grain kind and you’re all set!
2. Fowl It Up
For a different twist, don’t be afraid to take along a tasty Nutrisystem® Grilled Chicken Breast to your next picnic or barbecue. They’re particularly great if there’s a grill on hand, and you don’t even need to keep them in a cooler prior to eating. Just throw them in your picnic basket and you’re good to go!
3. Veg Out!
There’s nothing more delicious than fresh, grilled vegetables. So how about grilling your corn on the cob? You can have about half an ear as a carbohydrate serving, and maybe, instead of just salting it, try something creative—squeeze a little lime juice over it once it’s cooked, then sprinkle it with a Mexican seasoning. Or mix up a little olive oil, lemon juice and garlic, and brush the mixture on the hot corn.
Not feeling corny? Not a problem. How about grilled asparagus? Before you go, just wash it and break off the tough ends, then put it in a long dish. Marinate it in some lemon juice and some lemon zest for about an hour before putting it on the gas grill. It’s fabulous!
4. Salute the Fruit
Fruit is a great addition to any picnic, and the perfect way to stay on track while enjoying the season’s festivities. You could enjoy your fruit serving by joining in the good, old-fashioned picnic fun of a carved watermelon (watch your portion size, though (1-1/4 cup) because it’s a higher-sugar fruit and not low-glycemic). Or how about something a little different—make fruit kebobs for grilling! Just skewer a cube of honeydew, another of cantaloupe, a small section of banana, and two cubes of pineapple to make an awesome fruit serving. Let them grill, turning frequently, until the fruit becomes slightly browned. You’ll love it!
5. Don’t Desert Dessert!
Just because you’re on program doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the dessert front. Even if everyone else at your barbeque is diving into the homemade goodies, rest assured you’re staying right on track by taking along one of your favorite Nutrisystem® desserts or snacks. They’re perfectly portable, and a great way to hang out with the gang, yet return home with no regrets!”-Nutrisystem Website
Would you like to lose weight and get healthy on the Nutrisystem diet?
Visit Nutrisystem today or call 888-853-4689 to get started!
*I am receiving the Nutrisystem Women’s Plan in exchange for blogging about my honest Nutrisystem experiences. All opinions are my own and my results may differ from others.