Summer is here! And that means fun, fun, fun. Nothing beats getting together as we soak up the summer sun and take part in all things. But more than anything, I just want to participate in the noshing, like all Sumerians do for a long time! WITHOUT feeling TERRIBLE. It can be done! Let’s celebrate summer with the ultimate BBQ roundup.
Celebrate summer with protein on the grill
The highlight of any Summer BBQ is the protein thrown on the grill. No matter what event you’re going to or maybe even grilling at home, there are so many flavors to choose from. Here are some of my all-time favorite macro-friendly proteins that are perfect for any BBQ.
Bacon Cheeseburger with Secret Sauce
Burgers are a must during BBQ season. This bacon cheeseburger with secret sauce is every bit as good as any classic burger, plus it’ll help you hit your macros.
BBQ Soy Ginger Chicken Thighs
Thighs are absolutely foolproof! You could accidentally get lost in conversation at a backyard BBQ and not mess up these BBQ Soy Ginger Chicken Thighs. They are perfectly crispy. Oh so juicy. And super easy to do.
Greek marinated chicken skewers
If you’re looking for something flavorful, then try these Greek Marinated Chicken Skewers. Stir up your marinade and toss it onto your chopped chicken in a “fancy” ziplock bag. Squish it around and let it get all garlicky and herbaceous and lemony and Greek. Then thread your marinated chicken pieces onto soaked skewers and grill! It is really that easy!
Grilled Balsalmic Flank Steak
It’s time we talked about steak! We can’t have a BBQ roundup without highlighting a flank steak. This balsamic grilled flank steak is perfect as a main course or even as a salad the next day…you’ll have some leftovers.
Grilled Chicken with Honey Chipotle
This Grilled Chicken with Honey Chipotle is easy enough for a busy weekday, but delicious enough to make for a special meal. The chicken turns out so juicy and flavorful. It will become a BBQ favorite. Plus, it goes well with so many of my favorite sites
Celebrate summer with side dishes and salads
While we may not grill every side dish, a summer celebration wouldn’t be complete if they didn’t think of it. My favorite macro-friendly side dishes and salads pair well with so many delicious protein flavors and ensure everyone has a full (and balanced) tummy.
Mexican street corn salsa
After you’ve grilled your corn, be sure to try this Mexican Street Corn Salsa. All you have to do is cut your corn off the cob and toss it with some onion, cilantro, the chipotle cream… some spices and of course… COTIJA! Finish it off with a squeeze of fresh lime. Yummy.
Trader Joe’s lentil dip
I couldn’t decide if this counts as a dip or a salad. All I know is that it’s delicious! Bring Trader Joe’s Lentil Dip to every gathering and people will be talking. I didn’t make this up (just added my own macro-friendly flair) but my family happily devours it.
Macro friendly loaded smashed potatoes
These macro-friendly mashed potatoes are the perfect addition to any spread and fit perfectly into your macros. I usually make these potatoes in the oven, but we’re talking BBQ today, so I say go ahead and make them in your grill or smoker for the next gathering you have.
Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Try this Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad for a fresh and VIBRANT addition to your summer BBQ! It’s so easy to throw together, yet interesting and delicious. Plus, it’s nice enough to have a conversation.
Sauteed Summer Herb Salad
This Sauteed Summer Herb Salad has all the flavors of summer while being super quick and easy to make. I love it on its own, but it also makes the perfect summer side dish for whatever you’re grilling.
Sweet summer corn and cucumber salad
If you’re looking for a change from a large leaf salad, try this sweet summery corn and cucumber salad. It’s so easy to throw together and so delicious. Also, I CANNOT get enough sweet summer corn… and BASIL!
Complete your BBQ with a sweet finish
Every celebration needs to be rounded off with our favorite treats. While my favorite desserts aren’t always macro-friendly, it’s totally fine because we made great choices with the rest of our spread.
The best brownies ever
I don’t know what could be better than seeing a big plate of the best brownies at a Summer BBQ. They are NOT macro friendly. But in my opinion, I wouldn’t trust a macro-friendly brownie. I say live big and treat yourself to these brownies! They’re our favorite brownies from scratch.
My favorite chocolate chip cookies
There’s something about eating cookies that feeds my soul. These chocolate chip cookies will not disappoint. They’re crispy on the edges and gooey chewy in the middle. Everyone will be talking about the cookies you bought for the BBQ.
Celebrate summer with a BBQ Roundup
Remember, you really can get in on all the summer fun and not worry about what that might look like in terms of your macros. Food should be healthy and tasty for me, that’s why I share so much on Instagram, TikTok and have created my own cookbooks. Can’t wait to see how you celebrate with a BBQ roundup of your own this summer.