This 4th of July is going to be a hot one with temperatures already in the 100s and rising, at least here in Kansas! So we thought it would be more than appropriate to share a fizzy, tasty and healthy chilled drink to cool you down for your Independence Day celebrations.
It all starts with ice cubes. We found these fun little patriotic molds at a local craft store for a dollar or two. But of course, if you can’t find anything like this, regular ice molds will yield a similar result.
The ice cubes are incredibly healthy as they’re simply pureed berries. We chose a mix of raspberries, blackberries and strawberries. But choose whatever combination you prefer, and add a little sugar for a touch of sweetness if desired.
Read Full Post >
I can say that the Fourth of July is my hands-down favorite holiday of the year. It’s smack dab in the middle of summer and everyone is happy. It’s a good-time vibe all day, and usually all weekend when the holiday doesn’t fall on a Wednesday.
Like most Americans, I love the food aspect of these patriotic celebrations. Picnic food has got to be some of the best, but it tends to be some of the worst for us. Just like I had to rethink my go-to beef burgers and swap them for a pretty tasty turkey burger, I had to rethink my sides. Particularly potato salad.
I love potato salad! I used to day dream about that big yellow dollop on my plate. Now I kind of shudder when I see that pail of mayo-mustard mess. I felt like I owed it to myself and my guests to come up with something better, and so I did.
Read Full Post >
I’m a pretty all-American girl, I like to think. I love running around barefoot in the summer, classic rock ‘n roll, a hot grill, and cool drinks. Summer is my season and I, admittedly, love to eat and drink my way through it.
I also, admittedly, like to remain relatively close to the same size at the end of the summer as I am at the start of the summer. That means a few trade offs. I (mostly) gave up beef burgers years ago. Turkey is where it’s at now. And I say this as a pretty picky eater. If I can be sold on a turkey burger, the rest of you should already be on this train.
With Memorial Day unofficially kicking off the summer this weekend, I’m ready to enjoy everything I love about the warm days ahead, minus a few unnecessary calories. So I hope you’ll join me in devouring a few of my Red, White, and Blueberry Turkey Burger Sliders.
The great thing about sliders is the automatic portion control. One or two of these little guys is all I need, and I still have plenty of room on my plate (and calories) for corn on the cob, potato salad, grilled fruit, and maybe even a little ice cream. I found the whole wheat slider buns at Kroger, but even small dinner rolls will work.
Read Full Post >
Fourth of July is here and burgers sizzling on a hot grill is practically the American dream, but with so many people watching their weight, the typical high-fat beef burger is no longer the best barbecue option.
Not only are typical burgers high in saturated fat and calories, but the toppings people use to dress them, like bacon and cheese, can be calorie bombs themselves. With seafood, chicken and vegetables offering a lower-fat and calorie option, there is no shortage of grill fare to choose from when it’s time to plan your next party.
The book Burger Parties by James McNair and Jeffrey Starr (Ten Speed Press) offers a variety of party menus centered around burger recipes, including beef alternatives like chicken burgers with jicama slaw an swordfish burgers with tangy apple tartar sauce.
This year, when you’re grilling to celebrate your favorite patriotic holiday, opt for something lighter than the traditional burger. Look to different protein options, such as chicken, fish, turkey and tofu to fill your menu.
Read Full Post >
See more Empty Calories right here in the blog each week, or receive one each month when you subscribe to our free newsletter.
Read Full Post >
