by Micah Reeves

Created on: June 29, 2007   Last Updated: November 30, 2010

Summer is a wonderful time of the year. Vacations, swimming, and picnics are enjoyed by all. We can serve low fat foods at our picnics this year by making a few simple changes. We don't have to sacrifice our health for good tasting foods. Here are some low fat ideas for your next picnic.

*If making fried chicken, use low fat cooking oil. Another option is to purchase rotisserie chicken from your grocery store or deli.

* If grilling at the picnic, choose low fat lean meats. Low fat hamburger mixed with ground turkey can cut the fat more. Kabobs are a great way to have fun at your picnic and eat healthy also. Load those kabobs with green pepper, onion, tomato and pineapple for a tasty meal.

*Fruit salads are healthy and you can add sugar free cool whip for an ambrosia type salad.

*Make a Jell-O fluff with sugar-free Jell-O and sugar-free cool whip. Kids love this recipe.

Make your Jell-O first and let it become firm in the fridge. Then just add one container of cool whip for each box of Jell-O you have made. Whip it with your electric mixer set on low until mixed most of the way. Finish it off set on medium. Now just cover it and put it back in the fridge until you are ready to go to your barbecue. This is a light dessert everyone will enjoy. Other parents will thank you for not adding sugar to an already exciting day for their children.

* Instead of bringing potato or tuna salad that is loaded with fatty dressing, use low fat mayonnaise when preparing for you picnic. You can also pick some up at your local deli or grocery store. Another option is bringing a cucumber or pasta free salad. The options are limitless when it comes to what kind of salad you can make! Try out a new low fat salad recipe for something different and refreshing.

*Offer sherbet or fruit Popsicles as a refreshing treat for the hot day. Low fat ice cream cones can be the something special too.

*Moderation is the key when deciding to have fatty foods. It's okay to have some, but have one portion instead of the whole plate full.

*Serve cut up vegetables with a low fat ranch or dill dip.

These ideas can be incorporated in your regular meals for your family throughout the year too. Eat low fat. Your heart will thank you for it.

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