Free Recipes

Summertime is traditionally burger time. Who wouldn’t love to bite into a juicy burger at a cookout? But many burgers are topped with calorie-laden toppings. Finding the healthy burger is the ideal solution.

Begin with a healthy bun. Switch your bun to whole wheat or whole grain.

Condiments are usually low-cal – but read labels. Ketchup often has a high sugar content. Switch to a low-fat mayo. A popular choice is mustard which is very low in calories but packs on lots of flavor.

Veggies are an ideal choice to “top” your burger. Try fresh or grilled veggies like onions, peppers (sweet or regular), tomatoes, spinach, lettuce and avocado. A burger topped with veggies lowers the calories and adds lots of fiber and a serving of vegetables.

Many love cheese on their burger – but this choice can add lots of calories. The trick is to use shredded cheese and sprinkle a bit on for flavor. You’ll get enough cheese in each bite for a good taste, but not so much to have added calories and fat.

Now who doesn’t love a juicy burger every now and then? The problem is – the traditional burger can be loaded with calories galore. Learn a few tricks to lower the calorie count in your burgers so you can enjoy a couple every month when you want to.

Add on the veggies. This is an easy switch that makes any burger healthy and adds lots of crunch and taste. You can eat either raw or grilled veggies for great flavor. A popular choice is the raw Bermuda onion. Or try red hot peppers that are juicy and just a little sweet under that hot spiciness. A burger topped with the traditional lettuce and tomato is an ideal choice.

Look for condiments you love. Try becoming a bit of a condiments snob. Some people will use just about any type of condiment – but there are so many different types of mustard, ketchup, relish and low fat mayos out there – you truly have some great options out there. Adding these little tastes to your burger can make a difference. For an unusual taste try adding low fat wasabi mayo. Or try a low calorie barbecue sauce. Condiments are an ideal way to add flavor, just be sure that sugar is very low on the ingredients list.

Try substitutes for the high calorie burger treats. Some of the classics include cheese and bacon. Many people love a bacon cheeseburger – and it is hard to imagine what could replace this. But try making this with turkey bacon, using only one slice of turkey bacon and use fat free cheese. With the substitutes you are sure to find something that will appeal to you and your guests.