When we think of summer, thoughts of warm weather, gathering with friends, and grilling crosses our minds! Sitting out in the sun and enjoying a freshly grilled meal with a cold drink is summer happiness! Grilling is an easy way to cook a healthy and nutrient-dense meal that incorporates colorful vegetables and supports The Longevity Diet. Read on to find out how to ensure you are ready for grilling season. Then get started with our selection of meal plans: vegan, pescatarian, and flexitarian. 

Clean Your Grill: Before lighting the grill, you want to make sure you are working on a clean surface. A dirty grill can carry bacteria that can transfer to your food while cooking. Be prepared: purchase a long wire brush, gloves, disposable sponges, and a grease dish soap to clean your grill. Make cleaning your grill a ritual before every use to get rid of the grease and black residue!

Be Equipped: Part of being a grill master is being prepared with your equipment! Grilling essentials may include a grill basket, aluminum foil, Tupperware, utensils, and extra plates! Keep in mind that raw and cooked foods should be kept separate!

Preheat for Perfection: In many ways, a grill is similar to an oven. Proper preheating is essential to promoting even cooking. An easy routine for proper preheating is to light the grill, close the lid, and allow the grill to reach 500*F. Scrape off the grates and adjust the temperature to your proper temperature for whatever you are cooking! 

Grilling Techniques: Now that your grill is all clean, you will need to start the fire. Depending on your grill, you may have to adjust the temperature for the specific meats and vegetables you would like to cook. Cut your vegetables to a similar size to promote even cooking. Remember the old adage of 'flip once' when it comes to your protein to prevent overworking! Keep the lid closed between flipping to keep the heat contained! 

Food Safety: According to the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 6 Americans get sick due to food-borne illnesses. Fortunately, with proper care and diligence, many are preventable! Having a thermometer handy can help prevent food-borne illnesses. Familiarize yourself with the safe internal temperatures of the foods you are cooking.

Personal Safety: Being that it's an outdoor activity, it's important to consider your safety when outside. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be aware of any potential risks that exist around your grill.

Now that you have these tips at your fingertips, it is time to get outside and enjoy some healthy meals with your friends and family! Looking for ideas for what to grill? Check out some of our grill recipes here! Let N4L be a part of your grilling experience by purchasing one of our produce boxes, try out some new veggies on the grill, and get started with a meal plan, made with clean, nutrient rich ingredients!