Pack a Picnic That Won't Pack on the Pounds

It's that time of year that we all look forward to -- the time for backyard barbecues, picnics, and outdoor parties. Eating outdoors is just more fun -- and it doesn't have to be unhealthy.

Think beyond fried chicken and potato salad. Those traditional summertime favorites may be easy to tote, but they are also loaded with fat and calories. There are plenty of ways to whip up cool and easy dishes that won't wreak havoc on your eating plan.

Salads and Sides

Salads are a welcome part of any picnic. If you love mayonnaise-based salads, try using light mayonnaise mixed with fat-free or light sour cream to reduce calories. Add flavored mustards, pickle relish, or extra veggies to "kick it up a notch."

Try adding chunks of seafood, chicken, or turkey to pasta or green salads for entrées that don't require you to slave over the hot grill. And check out this yummy pasta pesto salad recipe.

Dress green and vegetable salads with vinaigrettes that are heavy on the vinegar and light on the oil. Vinegars such as sherry and balsamic add wonderful flavors, especially if you prepare the dish ahead of time and chill it for several hours before eating.

Baked beans were always part of our family menus; make them part of yours, too. Beans are a great source of fiber and are quite nutritious as long as they're not doctored up with too many extra calories. Our "Recipe Doctor," Elaine Magee, uses low-fat kielbasa for flavor in this healthy bean recipe.

Simple raw vegetables like baby carrots, grape tomatoes, broccoli, jimaca, and celery are easy to take along for a crunchy and satisfying side dish or appetizer.

Hot off the Grill

Burgers are a perennial summertime favorite. As long as you use lean ground beef, you can still have your favorite food on a bun. You can also enjoy low-fat versions of hot dogs, bratwurst, and sausages (but don't forget your portion control).

Skinless chicken breasts and seafood of most any kind are among the leanest options for the grill. Marinate them, or brush on a honey-mustard glaze for a delicious treat hot off the grill.

Vegetables on the grill are another taste delight. I love to marinate veggie kabobs or slices of red peppers, mushrooms, and squash and throw them on the grill for a great side dish or appetizer.

Just Desserts

What kind of picnic would it be without a watermelon? The red, juicy fruit is the perfect picnic dessert; it's very low in calories, and now comes in the new smaller, personal size.

Fruit salads, fruit kabobs, and bowls of grapes or cherries also make refreshing, sweet, and nutritious finales to a healthy picnic.

Angel food cake with fresh berries and light whipped topping (freeze a container and put it in the cooler) is another alternative that everyone loves and is reasonably low in calories.

But steer clear of chocolate -- it melts in the heat!