10 Healthy BBQ Recipes to Throw on the Grill This Summer

Few things remind me more of summer than the smell of good food on a grill. Burning charcoal takes me back to gatherings at the lake, Friday night burger nights, and Father’s Day ribs. But why make grilling a special occasion? There are plenty of healthy BBQ recipes out there that can make grilling out a nightly thing. Both my dad and my brother-in-law have a burning passion for grilling (see what I did there?)—my brother-in-law’s groom’s cake was even made to look like a Big Green Egg grill. My family is always trying out new recipes and new grilling techniques. I’m a fan of all things smoky and charred, so getting creative with grilling veggies, fish, and chicken is a must. 

So, for your next barbecue, weekend dinner, or summer lunch, try out one of these light and healthy BBQ recipes that don’t skimp out on flavor.

Grilled Pork Tenderloin With Chimichurri by The Modern Proper

This is one of my family’s favorite recipes to grill. Pork tenderloin is surprisingly just as lean as skinless chicken breasts, and the dry rub in this recipe gives it so much flavor without hours of marinating. The chimichurri sauce is also 0 carbs and adds a fresh, bright, summery flavor to the meal.

Cedar Plank Salmon and Corn With Serrano-Butter by The Defined Dish 

Salmon is rich in Omega-3s, protein, B vitamins, and so much more, making it one of the best healthy BBQ recipes. Grilling it on the cedar planks adds so much flavor and the serrano butter is a must. 

Chicken Provencal Skewers from Camille Styles

Chicken skewers are a great way to grill something a bit lighter than red meat while still getting your daily dose of protein.

Grilled Flank Steak With Cilantro Balsamic Marinade by Against All Grain 

With fewer calories and more protein, flank steak is one of the healthiest cuts of beef. The cilantro balsamic marinade really takes this recipe over the edge. Plus, the leftovers are great on a salad. 

Orange-Chili Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Carrot Pesto and Grilled Carrots from Camille Styles

The orange-chili glaze on the pork perfectly complements the sweetness of the carrots. It’s a creative way to utilize some of our favorite ingredients of the season. You’ll definitely be coming back to this recipe time after time.

Grilled Eggplant With Chimichurri from Foodie Crush

This recipe is another amazing use of chimichurri. Sure, this grilled eggplant and chimichurri dish could easily work as a side dish but it is so delicious it can absolutely stand on its own as the main dish.

Grilled Corn and Avocado With Feta Dressing by Sue Li for NY Times Cooking

This salad is described as “summer on a plate” and is definitely one of the healthier ways to utilize your grill this summer. It’s packed with grilled corn, avocado, and jalapenos with a creamy feta cheese dressing that is to die for. 

Griddled Vegetables & Feta With Tabbouleh by Jamie Oliver

Another great meatless healthy BBQ recipe, this feta dish gives the TikTok pasta a run for its money. It’s perfect for Meatless Monday served with some grilled flatbread. You essentially grill a whole block of feta with different veggies and mix it all up with some creamy tabbouleh. YUM.

Grilled Fish Tacos by Bon Appétite 

Fish tacos always give me major summer feels, but these grilled fish tacos are something else. The charred tortillas make them the perfect health BBQ dish and are great for large groups, as you can set out all the ingredients and have guests make their own tacos!

Spinach Avocado Chicken Burgers by Unbound Wellness

Who doesn’t love grilling burgers? These Spinach Avocado Chicken Burgers are perfect for a good old-fashioned burger night, but are leaner and packed with protein and veggies. Chicken burgers have a bad rep for being boring, but with the spinach and avocado mayo that this recipe recommends, these are far from bland.