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Light, Delicious and BBQ-Ready: Summer Meals Perfect for Weight Loss

There’s something about summer — when the sun finally makes an appearance for two weeks — that just calls for a good old-fashioned barbecue. Whether you're firing up the grill in the back garden, packing a picnic for the park, or hosting friends for a weekend get-together, summer food is meant to be enjoyed.


But if you're on a weight loss journey, the usual suspects — think heavy burgers, sausages dripping with fat, and mountains of mayo-laden potato salad — can feel a bit daunting.


Good news: you absolutely can enjoy a brilliant barbecue without feeling like you’ve gone off track. In fact, with a few clever swaps and some fresh ideas, your summer meals can be both light and delicious.



Chicken skewers with onion and pepper cooking on a barbecue


Here are some of our favourite healthy summer barbecue options:


1. Grilled Chicken Skewers with Veggies


Marinate chunks of chicken breast in a mix of lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and a splash of olive oil. Thread onto skewers along with colourful peppers, onions, courgettes, and cherry tomatoes.


Tip: Chicken breast is lean and high in protein, helping you feel full without piling on calories. Plus, those veggies char beautifully on the barbecue.


2. Salmon Parcels with Herbs and Lemon


Wrap a salmon fillet in foil with a few lemon slices, a sprinkle of dill or parsley, and a touch of salt and pepper. Throw it onto the grill and let it steam in its own lovely juices.


Bonus: Omega-3 fats in salmon are brilliant for heart health and they support weight loss by keeping you satisfied for longer.


3. Halloumi and Vegetable Kebabs


If you're veggie (or just fancy something different), halloumi is fantastic grilled — it goes gorgeously golden and slightly melty. Thread cubes of halloumi onto skewers with courgette ribbons, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes.


Watch out: Halloumi is higher in salt and fat, so just keep your portion sensible. One or two skewers is plenty!


4. Cauliflower "Steaks"


Thick slices of cauliflower brushed with olive oil, smoked paprika, and a little cumin, then grilled until tender, are a surprising barbecue star. They’re low in calories, high in fibre, and genuinely satisfying — even for die-hard meat eaters.


5. Fresh Summer Salads (That Aren’t Boring!)


Forget limp lettuce. Summer salads can be hearty and exciting:

  • Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad: Sweet, salty, and refreshing.

  • Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad: Charred corn tossed with creamy avocado and a squeeze of lime.

  • Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Salad: A great make-ahead option that's filling but light.


Pro tip: Always include a good source of protein in your salads (chicken, chickpeas, boiled eggs, or grilled prawns) to help stay full.


6. Healthier Burger Options


You don't have to ditch burgers altogether! Try:

  • Turkey Burgers: Lean turkey mince seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a pinch of chilli.

  • Portobello Mushroom "Buns": Swap out bread buns for giant grilled mushroom caps.

  • Lettuce Wrap Burgers: Wrap your burger in crisp iceberg leaves for a crunchy, low-carb twist.


Top with fresh tomato, pickles, and a dollop of low-fat Greek yoghurt instead of mayo.


And For Dessert? 🍓


Keep it simple and sweet with:

  • Grilled peaches or nectarines

  • A big bowl of mixed berries

  • Frozen yoghurt bark with fruit and nuts


They satisfy the sweet tooth without blowing your calorie budget.


 
 
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