Summer Cooking the MyPlate Way

Summer Cooking the MyPlate Way

While enjoying foods more commonly eaten in the summer like hamburgers and brats, keep in mind balanced meals. Using the MyPlate method is a good way to make sure that one-fourth of your plate is lean protein, one-fourth is a grain and half is fruit and vegetables.

Foil packets are one way to incorporate a variety of foods. Take a piece of heavy duty foil and spray one side with non-stick spray. Family members and/or friends can choose ingredients to put in the packet. Ingredients may include but are not limited to the following: ground beef, rice, beans, peppers, onions and seasoning for a Southwest meal or a more common combination of potatoes, carrots, onions, and ground beef. Cook foil packets on the fire’s coals rather than directly in the fire itself.

Cooking times will vary on the foods selected – potatoes and carrots will take longer than other foods as well as heat from the fire. Remember to carefully open the packet as there will be lots of steam.

Kabobs are another great way to follow the MyPlate. Pieces of fish, poultry, pork or beef along with an assortment of vegetables that are placed on skewers is a great start to a healthy meal. Add some brown or wild rice and you have a tasty meal.

For a cooler option, combine 1 bag of blended lettuce, cooked chicken, almonds, strawberries and mandarin oranges. Toss with poppy seed dressing. Another great way to eat following the MyPlate.