Karen Cicero

The next time you fire up your barbecue, think beyond hamburgers and hot dogs.

"You can be creative in the food you put on the grill; it makes almost anything taste better," says Jackie Newgent, registered dietitian, culinary nutritionist and author of the upcoming 1,000 Low-Calorie Recipes. Here are Newgent's BBQ bests:

Figs

These antioxidant powerhouses caramelize while cooking, making them a great treat for just about 25 calories apiece.

How to grill:

Brush with canola oil, and turn once; grill on medium heat for about three minutes per side or until grill marks appear.

Whole-wheat bread

Are you the type who could polish off the whole bread basket? Then you'll savor grilled bread, thanks to its crisper texture and charred flavor. Plus, you'll be more satisfied with just one piece. (OK, maybe two.)

How to grill:

Grill on low heat on a gas grill (or not directly above the coals on a charcoal grill) for one to two minutes per side.

Watermelon

Great for a Fourth of July party, this lycopene-packed fruit will be quite the conversation starter.

How to grill:

Cut into 1-inch thick slices and brush with a little honey. Grill just until brown, 1 to 2 minutes per side.

Radicchio

Grill lettuce? You bet! This hearty variety with burgundy leaves holds up well when grilled. Chop and toss with your favorite vinaigrette for the most amazing summer salad.

How to grill:

Cut one large head lengthwise into eight sections; grill on medium, four to five minutes per side.

Peaches

If you love peach pie straight from the oven, you have to try grilled peaches. Toss on a few crunchy nuts or top with a scoop of vanilla fro-yo.

How to grill:

Cut unpeeled, slightly firm peaches in half and pit them. Brush with canola oil, and grill on medium until peaches are tender but not falling apart.

 

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