Despite the summer heat, people are still grilling or “BBQing.” Is it just me, or is there something about summer time or warm weather that makes you want to fire up the grill? As a child, my mom would grill no matter what season or weather condition. Y’all, she once decided to grill in the middle of a snow storm because she had a taste for BBQ. Yep, that’s my momma!

Not sure about yours, but most grilling memories from my childhood consist of memories of family gatherings and large portions of meat, burgers and hotdogs being thrown on the grill. Honestly, I cannot recall anything other than meat being grilled. Occasionally, someone would put a few ears of corn on the grill or wrap sliced bell peppers and onions in foil (as shown in the video) to accompany the juicy smoked sausages or bratwurst. However, I rarely saw anything other than meat on the grill.

Today, I can happily report that my mom and other family members have stepped up their grilling game and are now grilling more than just meat. Yes! Now, I’m seeing grilled asparagus, zucchini and yellow squash, and of course, onions and bell peppers. All of which are delicious, grilled.

Question- Have you and/or your family members stepped up your grilling game since childhoods to include healthier options? If the answer is “no,” please consider trying some the healthy grilling tips Registered Dietitian, Qula Madkin, has to offer for adding more variety to your grill.

Qula Madkin – Extension Instructor and Registered Dietitian for Mississippi State University Extension Service

LaShaundrea B.