Each of these low-calorie barbecue recipes—from lean meats to wholesome sides—has fewer than 350 calories per serving.
60 Low-Calorie Barbecue Ideas to Try Tonight
Updated on May 16, 2025
1/60
Grilled Peach, Rice & Arugula Salad
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This hearty salad was created when I needed to clear out some leftovers from the fridge—and it became an instant hit! The grilled peaches are the ultimate tastes-like-summer salad booster. —Lauren Wyler, Dripping Springs, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 218 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 530mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
2/60
Herbed Pork Chops
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Herbs are a fast and flavorful way to dress up pork. Plus, they make the chops look so pretty on a platter. I prepare these year-round as a way to capture the taste of summer. —Dianne Esposite, New Middletown, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 154 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 33mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
3/60
Grilled Salmon Fillet
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Growing up on a family-owned resort, I was expected to help around the kitchen. This grilled salmon fillet recipe became my specialty. —Paul Noetzel, Grafton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked salmon: 193 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
4/60
Grilled Chicken Breasts
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves this grilled chicken, and I love having a healthy and tasty recipe that keeps my kitchen cool. —Linda Coss, Lake Forest, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 207 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 105mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
5/60
Grilled Beef Chimichangas
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this recipe when I didn't have the ingredients for my go-to dish. After making this, it became my new favorite! —Jackie Burns, Kettle Falls, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 chimichanga: 295 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 370mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
6/60
Grilled Steak and Mushroom Salad
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves this salad, especially during summer. He says he feels as if he's eating a healthy salad and getting his steak too! I always serve it with some fresh homemade bread. —Julie Cashion, Sanford, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 299 calories, 20g fat (4g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
7/60
Tarragon Asparagus
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I grow purple asparagus, so I'm always looking for new ways to prepare it. Recently, my husband and I discovered how wonderful any color of asparagus tastes when it's grilled. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 76 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 302mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
8/60
Grilled Chicken Chopped Salad
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Layered desserts always grab my family’s attention, but salads? Not
so much. I wondered if I could get everyone on board by presenting
a healthy salad in an eye-catching way. I’m happy to say that it worked. —Christine Hadden, Whitman, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3 cups: 239 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 276mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
9/60
Grilled Tilapia with Mango
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a new twist on tilapia that I created for my wife. She enjoys the combination of mango with Parmesan. Somehow it tastes even better outside on the deck with a glass of cold iced tea. —Gregg May, Columbus, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 213 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 377mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fruit, 1/2 fat.
10/60
Mojito-Style Yellow Tomato Salsa
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
With grilled tomatoes, crunchy peppers and a sprinkle of mint, this fresh salsa is good on just about everything. Try it in fish tacos, on tortilla chips or by the spoonful! —Patterson Watkins, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 23 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
11/60
Shrimp Spinach Salad
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I meet former co-workers for lunch at our favorite restaurant, we always order this salad. I wanted to share it with my husband, so I made it my mission to re-create it. Mission accomplished! —Lisa Bynum, Brandon, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 212 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 145mg cholesterol, 739mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 2 fat.
12/60
Best Hamburger
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Grill these easy hamburgers and add your favorite toppings. Not into grilling? Make the patties on the stovetop, in the oven or even in the air fryer. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 265 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 495mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
13/60
Veggie Kabobs
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Grilling is a delightful way to prepare the season's freshest produce. The zesty Italian marinade adds just the right amount of spice to these veggie kabobs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 202 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 598mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
14/60
Tomato-Herb Grilled Tilapia
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This super tilapia with ginger and lemon takes dinner over the top with minimal prep. Grilling the fish in foil is about as easy as it gets. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 270 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 443mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
15/60
Lime and Sesame Grilled Eggplant
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I lived in Greece, I fell in love with eggplant. My recipe's seasonings have an Asian theme, but the dish still makes me think Greek. —Allyson Meyler, Greensboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 50 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 246mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
16/60
The Ultimate Fish Tacos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is my favorite meal to prepare. Adding my own personal touch to the marinade makes my fish tacos pop with flavor. I warm corn tortillas on the grill and add salsa, cilantro, purple cabbage and fresh squeezed lime. —Yvonne Molina, Moreno Valley, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 284 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 278mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
17/60
Shrimp Lime Cilantro Skewers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A quick garlicky lime marinade works magic on these juicy shrimp. They come off the grill with huge flavors perfect for your next cookout. —Melissa Rodriguez, Van Nuys, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 167 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 284mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
18/60
Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We do a lot of outdoor cooking during the summer months, and this grilled pork tenderloin recipe is one my entire family loves. —Betsy Carrington, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork: 196 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 671mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
19/60
Grilled Street Corn
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Mexican food is my grandmother’s favorite. I wanted a perfect side for her legendary tacos, and this chile-lime grilled corn turned out to be just right. —Ashley Crainshaw, Shawnee, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn with about 1 tablespoon sour cream mixture: 143 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
20/60
Grilled Halibut with Blueberry Salsa
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Give halibut a new summery spin. The salsa may seem sophisticated, but it’s really a cinch to prepare. —Donna Goutermont, Juneau, Alaska
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 1/3 cup salsa: 239 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 521mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
21/60
Turkey Burgers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These juicy, tender patties on whole wheat buns make a wholesome, satisfying sandwich. We especially like to make grilled turkey burgers, but you could also pan-fry them. —Sherry Hulsman, Elkton, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 293 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 110mg cholesterol, 561mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.
22/60
Creamy Grilled Potato Salad
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
To avoid turning my oven on in the summer, I grill just about everything—including this creamy grilled potato salad. My friends have dubbed this “The Best Potato Salad You’ll Ever Put in Your Mouth,” and I love that! —Gayle Robinson, Carrolton, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 209 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
23/60
Chicken with Peach-Avocado Salsa
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This super-fresh dinner is pure summer—juicy peaches, creamy avocado, grilled chicken, and a kick of hot sauce and lime. To get it on the table even quicker, make the salsa ahead of time. —Shannon Roum, Cudahy, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1/2 cup salsa: 265 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 536mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
24/60
Shrimp Kabobs
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Marinating the shrimp in Italian dressing adds wonderful flavor to these colorful shrimp kabobs. —Sharon Aweau, Kapolei, Hawaii
Nutrition Facts:
2 kabobs: 260 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 207mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
25/60
Tomato, Avocado and Grilled Corn Salad
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With ripe tomatoes, fresh basil and grilled corn, this bright salad tastes just like summertime! —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 164 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 237mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
26/60
Grilled Herb Potatoes
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Every year my father and I plant a garden together. After an especially great growing season, we had plenty of produce to eat! We like to use fresh herbs from our garden but dry is just as tasty in this dish. —Bernadette Bennett, Waco, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 117 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 351mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
27/60
Spicy Lemon Chicken Kabobs
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I see Meyer lemons in the store, I know it must be spring. I like using them for these easy chicken kabobs, but regular grilled lemons still add the signature smoky tang. —Terri Crandall, Gardnerville, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 182 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 55mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
28/60
Lemon-Parmesan Broiled Asparagus
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These special spears are packed with flavor, thanks to the lemon-garlic dressing they're tossed in before roasting. This is a simple, quick side that goes with almost anything. —Tina Repak, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 156 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 309mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
29/60
Spicy Grilled Eggplant
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This side dish goes well with any meat you might be grilling. Thanks to the Cajun seasoning, the zesty eggplant gets more attention than an ordinary veggie. —Greg Fontenot, The Woodlands, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 88 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
30/60
Steak Pinwheels
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I wow family and friends with this impressive-looking dish that's as easy to make as it is delicious. Even those who don't like spinach seem to like this dish! —Mary Ann Marino, West Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 each: 320 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 271mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 37g protein.
31/60
Summer Garden Fish Tacos
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to serve fish tacos with quinoa and black beans for a complete and satisfying meal. If you’ve got them, add colorful summer toppings like bright peppers, green onions or purple carrots. —Camille Parker, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 278 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 214mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
32/60
Lemon Garlic Mushrooms
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I baste whole mushrooms with a lemony sauce to prepare this simple side dish. Using skewers or a basket makes it easy to turn them as they grill to perfection. —Diane Hixon, Niceville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 94 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
33/60
Triple Tomato Flatbread
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 pieces
From the Recipe Creator:
Tomatoes are the reason I have a vegetable garden, and I developed this recipe as a way to show off my garden's plum, sun-dried and cherry tomatoes. The dish is easy and will impress. —Rachel Kimbrow, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 235 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 476mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
34/60
Bacon-Corn Stuffed Peppers
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Filled with corn, salsa, green onions, mozzarella cheese and bacon, these grilled pepper halves are sure to liven up your next cookout. They have a wonderful taste and give a fun twist to the usual corn on the cob. —Mitzi Sentiff, Annapolis, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper half: 130 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 207mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
35/60
Black Bean Chip & Dip Burgers
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I finally invented a healthy quinoa burger that wasn't dry and crumbly or really boring. These fit the bill—even my grandkids prefer them over hamburgers. They taste like chips and dip in a burger! —KT Rehrig, Allentown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 247 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein.
36/60
Summer Steak Kabobs
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These steak kabobs not only satisfy my love of outdoor cooking but feature a mouthwatering marinade too. The marinade is terrific with chicken and pork, but I prefer it with beef because it tenderizes remarkably well. —Christi Ross, Guthrie, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 kabobs: 257 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 277mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
37/60
Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings (2 cups salsa)
From the Recipe Creator:
Years ago I found a grilled tilapia recipe in a seafood cookbook. The pineapple salsa with cilantro has a touch of spice and goes so well with the flaky, tender fish. —Beth Fleming, Downers Grove, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 1/4 cup salsa : 131 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fruit.
38/60
Grilled Squash
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of the best ways to prepare butternut squash and is great alongside grilled steak or chicken. As a bonus, butternut squash is full of vitamin A. —Esther Horst, Monterey, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
2 slices: 178 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 156mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
39/60
Maple-Balsamic Salmon
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I have a few good recipes for family-favorite, heart-healthy salmon, but this recipe is always a hit. I serve salmon this way at least once a week and sometimes more! —David Krisko, Becker, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 266 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
40/60
Grilled Tilapia Piccata
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We aren’t big fish eaters, but a friend made this for us and we couldn’t believe how wonderful it was. Now we eat it regularly. I love making it for guests because it is simple, looks lovely and tastes restaurant-worthy. —Beth Cooper, Columbus, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 206 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 398mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
41/60
Flavorful Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Folks can find me grilling no matter the weather. This moist pork tenderloin has loads of flavor thanks to its special spice blend, and it doesn't get much easier to make. My wife especially likes that she doesn't have to do the cooking! —Steve Ehrhart, Villa Park, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork: 135 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
42/60
Grilled Cabbage
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The first time I made this, I couldn’t believe how good it was. We served it with grilled burgers and our dinner was complete. I never thought I’d skip dessert because I was full from too much cabbage! —Elizabeth Wheeler, Thornville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 98 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 188mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
43/60
Ginger Honey Marinated Salmon
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Ginger, garlic powder and green onion blend nicely for this marinated salmon. We've found it tastes even better when marinated in the fridge overnight. We also like to use this versatile mixture when grilling chicken. —Dan Strumberger, Farmington, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked fish: 237 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 569mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
44/60
Grilled Brown Sugar-Mustard Chicken
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe in college and it's been a household staple ever since. It's a snap to throw together with ingredients I have on hand. —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 1-1/2 teaspoons mustard mixture: 224 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 597mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
45/60
Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After work, relax with a cold drink while this savory chicken marinates in an herby tomato blend for an hour, then toss it on the grill. It tastes just like summer. —Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 177 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 171mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
46/60
Greek Pork Chops
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My in-laws taught me a lot about cooking, so any time I come across a great new recipe, I enjoy making it for them. These bright, lemony chops quickly became a favorite. —Geri Lipczynski, Oak Lawn, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 193 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 349mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
47/60
Balsamic-Goat Cheese Grilled Plums
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Make a bold statement with this simple yet elegant treat. Ripe plums are grilled and then dressed with a balsamic reduction and tangy goat cheese. —Ariana Abelow, Holliston, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 plum half with 1 tablespoon cheese and 2 teaspoons glaze: 58 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 41mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
48/60
Honey Smoked Salmon
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this recipe in an Alaska fishing guide. Now it's the only way we do salmon. The brine gives it a sweet caramelized coating, and the hickory wood chips give it a distinct smoky flavor. —Judy Ashby, Jamestown, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked salmon: 244 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
49/60
Grilled Fish Sandwiches
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I season these fish fillets with lime juice and lemon pepper before grilling them. A simple honey mustard-mayonnaise sauce puts the sandwiches ahead of the rest. —Violet Beard, Marshall, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 224 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 499mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 3 lean meat.
50/60
Portobello Fajitas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I serve portobello fajitas family-style so guests can build their own. Just pass the tortillas and garnishes like salsa, cheese, guacamole and sour cream. —Carolyn Butterfield, Lake Stevens, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 fajita (calculated without optional toppings): 282 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 664mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
51/60
Ginger-Glazed Grilled Honeydew
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you've never grilled fruit like this before, you're in for a real treat! I love the idea of cooking everything from appetizers to desserts on the grill. This grilled honeydew recipe is sweet and really light. —Jacqui Correa, Landing, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 101 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1/2 starch.
52/60
Chicken Skewers
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chicken skewers with tender chunks of chicken and garden-fresh veggies are easy to assemble and are always a hit at parties. —Margaret Allen, Abingdon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 244 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable.
53/60
Tandoori-Style Chicken with Cucumber Melon Relish
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We all need a quick meal that's deliciously healthy. I marinate the chicken before I leave for work, and when I get home, I grill the chicken and make the relish. My husband loves the spicy flavor. To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without almonds): 247 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 38g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
54/60
Grilled Watermelon Gazpacho
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is the perfect starter for a summer dinner or a lunch. It's cool and tangy with a whole lot of great grilled flavor. If you like a little more spice, just add more jalapenos. —George Levinthal, Goleta, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 181 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 248mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 fruit, 1 vegetable.
55/60
Grilled Broccoli
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I started using this recipe in 1987, when I began cooking light, and it's been a favorite side dish ever since. With its lemon and Parmesan flavors, it once took second place in a cooking contest. —Alice Nulle, Woodstock, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 107 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
56/60
Grilled Mango & Avocado Salad
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A big hit with my family, this light salad is so easy to make! The healthy option of mango and avocado is simply the best combination you could serve. —Amy Liesemeyer, Tucson, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 249 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 2 starch.
57/60
Zucchini & Cheese Roulades
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband enjoys this recipe so much that he even helps me roll up the roulades! You can change the filling any way you like—I have used feta instead of Parmesan, or sun-dried tomatoes in the place of the olives. —April McKinney, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 24 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 58mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
58/60
Fingerling Potatoes with Fresh Parsley and Chives
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We use seasonings like adobo, Sazon, fresh parsley and minced chives when we grill potatoes. We have even smoked the potatoes in our portable smoker before grilling. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 215 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 172mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
59/60
Grilled Guacamole
Total Time
20 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you’re a guacamole lover, try this fun grilled version that has a smoky flavor. The veggies tend to darken a bit when heated, so stir the guac gently to prevent further discoloration. —Lindsay Sprunk, Noblesville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 85 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
60/60
Grilled Pattypans
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Just a few minutes and a handful of ingredients are all you’ll need for this scrumptious side dish. Hoisin sauce and rice wine vinegar give grilled pattypans Asian flair. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 54 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 127mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
Low-Calorie Barbecue FAQs
What meats have the lowest calories for a barbecue?
Meats with the lowest calories that can be grilled for a barbecue are skinless chicken or turkey breasts, pork tenderloin, shrimp and salmon.
How can I make a low-calorie barbecue sauce?
You can make a low-calorie barbecue sauce by omitting oil and butter and using minimal sugar. Try to stick to classic barbecue sauce ingredients like tomato paste, cider vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire and spices.
What are the healthiest grilling ideas for a barbecue?
Lean meats and high-fiber veggies are the healthiest foods to grill at home. Stick to barbecue sauce recipes, spice rubs and marinades that prioritize natural, minimally processed ingredients.
