Smart Seasoning

Looking for some creative ways to spruce up those grill–outs without packing on the pounds? Enjoy these nutritious ideas for adding a little zest to your meat:

• Before throwing your patties onto the grill, knead a little pizzazz into the beef. Combine salt, pepper, cayenne, crushed garlic, chopped onions, and oregano. The flavor will be vibrant enough that you reduce condiments, which often add unwanted salt, fat, and sugar.
• Ditch the ketchup, which is laced with high–fructose corn syrup and sodium, for a little southwestern flair — spice up your burgers or dogs with salsa. You’ll cut calories, plus the jalapenos, cilantro, and garlic bump up your immune system with their antimicrobial properties.
• While barbeque sauce is a tangy delight, it’s as guilty as its tomato cousin when it comes to added sweeteners and calories. Try Dijon mustard to heighten taste instead.
• Look for marinades that contain hot peppers, ginger, allspice, and sesame, which contain antioxidants that benefit health. One study concluded that basting your meat just before serving, as opposed to before cooking, can deliver the highest dose of free–radical fighters while stimulating savor.