There is nothing quite like the smell of a barbecue to feel those summer vibes. Keep it healthy with these tips from Emma McCarley.

There is nothing quite like the smell of a barbecue to feel those summer vibes. Barbecue food is quick, delicious and a great way to enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your barbecue while also making healthy choices.

1. Choose lean meats

Skinless chicken and fish are healthier protein choices, they have a lower saturated fat content compared to red meat. Also, fish like salmon, mackerel and herring contain high levels of omega-3. Omega-3 is beneficial for the health of your heart. If you do choose red meat, aim to buy leaner cuts. As well, trim away any visible excess meat.

Try our BBQ Citrus Summer Chicken and Salmon and Parma Ham.

Click for tips on how to cook fish and meat safely.

2. Include lots of colour

People don’t often think of fruit and vegetables when barbecuing, but these are really tasty additions. Include a variety of fruit and vegetables. Kebabs are a fun way to do this. I love these Chargrilled Veggie Kebabs. For a sweet dessert try these Barbecued fruit kebabs.

3. Be mindful of portions

The Eatwell Guide suggests that red or processed meat consumption should be no more than 70g per day. The portion size of fish is recommended around 140g. Don’t worry if that doesn’t sound like a lot, the rest of your plate will be filled with delicious veggies and salad!

4. Consider your grilling technique

Flip meat or fish often and try not to cook the food too close to the coal. This will prevent charring/blackening of your food.

5. Go for wholegrains

If you are serving burgers, serve them in wholemeal baps. Similar with pasta salads, where possible, try for wholegrain pasta. This will increase the fibre content of the meal.

6. Try reduced fat/calorie salad dressings

If you are looking for extra flavour, add a squeeze of a slice of lime/lemon over your meal. If you want to use salad dressings and sauces, choose varieties that are low in salt, fat and/or sugar by checking the front of pack label.

Click here for how to read a food label.

Some of my favourite salad recipes:

• Couscous salad
• Grilled salmon and potato salad
• Mexican bean salad
• Warm chickpea salad

7. Keep hydrated

Have an ice-cold jug of water on the table to stay hydrated in the summer heat. Try adding mint, cucumber, lemon or berries for some extra flavour.

Tasty food, cool drink in hand and surrounded by good company – it’s hard to top it! Enjoy this barbecue season.

For more tasty barbecue recipes click here.