by Cheryl Drahner

Created on: July 04, 2007

The great thing about picnics is that we have them when it's warm, and that means farmer's markets! Nothing says low fat like fresh fruit and veggies. Take advantage of the best of the season and plan an amazing, tasty, low fat picnic.

Start with a fresh salad. On a large, round platter (with deep sides) spread your favorite greens (my personal favorites are bib lettuce and baby spinach). Top with fresh tomato, cucumber, fresh herbs. Anything that you like on a salad. Squeeze with lemon juice, maybe sprinkle a little olive oil, and voila, salad!

Turkey is your best friend for picnic grilling. Be sure to transport in a cooler full of ice and bring a meat thermometer, and you'll be all set. There are fantastic varieties of turkey sausage (italian, bratwurst). If you live near a Whole Foods Market, go to the meat counter. They have the most fantastic variety of turkey and chicken based sausages and hot dogs, perfect for grilling. They also have very lean ground beef, great for burgers. Think about topping your burgers with avocado instead of mayo. Make a fantastic chick pea and tomato salad to go along with your burgers and brats. Or try a low fat potato salad. Baked chips can nicely round out your picnic lunch.

Fruit is a low fat dieters absolute best friend, and it never tastes better than in the summer. Start with fresh berries, angel food cake, and low fat whipped topping. Use fresh citrus and make a great limeade for a refreshing switch. Try substituting splenda for sugar just to keep the calories low.

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