CHICAGO (WLS) – As many Americans prepare to barbecue and hold gatherings on July 4th, Karina Heinrich, nutritionist and prominent health trainer, has offered some ways to make your holiday meals healthier.
Most people substitute turkey for ground beef when making burgers, but Heinrich suggests going a step further and making salmon burgers with a whole grain bun or a salad wrap.
Vegetarian shish kabobs or simple grilled vegetables from a local farmers market make for healthy and easy side dishes.
Henrich said her favorite way to snack on vegetables is to give a twist to an American classic – macs and greens.
“You can finely chop steamed or baked broccoli, spinach, asparagus, parsley – whatever your favorite vegetables are,” says Henrich.
Another incredible side dish is grain-free mint tabbouleh. Tabbouleh is a lemony parsley and grain salad from the Middle East traditionally made from bulgur wheat. This gluten-free version uses quinoa instead, which is very high in protein. It complements many foods, making it such a wonderful and healthy side dish.
Grilled fruit is a great dessert option; Henrich suggests grilling stone fruits such as peaches, plums and nectarines.
Finally, adding flavorings to sparkling water is a quick and easy way to keep guests hydrated.
Copyright © 2021 WLS-TV. All rights reserved.
