Special thanks to our Barbecues Galore Edmonton team for providing the bones of this article.
We’ve all done it. Sworn off junk food, filled the fridge with kale, maybe even pinned a few “this is my year” recipes. But let’s be honest — most healthy intentions barely survive the snack aisle. In fact, up to 90 percent of us ditch our wellness goals before they even become habits. That’s where grilling comes in. It’s one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways to eat well. Unlike other methods that drown your food in oil or strip away nutrients, grilling helps retain vitamins, reduces added fats, and brings out natural flavour without extra calories. It’s quick, satisfying, and somehow makes vegetables taste like a reward. With a quality barbecue, a few key grill accessories, and flavour-packed sauces and spices, you’ll be eating healthy without it feeling like some bland punishment.
1. Clean Grill = Clean Start
First, let’s talk about your barbecue. When was the last time you gave it a proper clean? A dirty grill can mess with the flavour, cause flare-ups, and leave behind burnt bits that nobody asked for.
Start by checking out our full lineup of our BBQ Brushes & Cleaners. Whether you're into sturdy brushes, classic wood scrapers, bristle-free options, or a Degreaser to cut through the grime, we’ve got everything you need to keep your barbecue in top form. Pro tip: clean your grates when they’re warm, not hot — it helps loosen buildup without the elbow grease of a full arm workout.
Want to go the extra mile? Add a cover to your barbecue to protect all that hard work from the elements.
2. Marinate Like You Mean It
Low sodium doesn't have to mean low flavour. Ditch the bottled marinades loaded with sugar and mystery ingredients and make your own. Think olive oil, citrus, garlic, fresh herbs, and a little heat if you're feeling bold.
Or, if you're in a rush (because same), stock your pantry with our chef-picked sauces and marinades. We’ve got everything from savoury spice blends to smoky barbecue sauces that pack a punch. Want to infuse flavour deep into your protein? Grab a marinade injector for serious depth. And if you’re the “eyeball it” type, a good basting brush helps you layer on flavour like a pro.
For all your prep needs, check out our food prep accessories, including mixing bowls, cutting boards, and everything else to keep your marinade game strong and your kitchen chaos-free.
3. Don’t Sleep on the Produce
Grilling fruits and vegetables brings out their natural sugars, transforming simple ingredients into flavour-packed sides — or even the main event. It’s one of the easiest ways to make healthy food actually taste exciting.
Thread zucchini, peppers, mushrooms, or peaches onto our GrillPro V Skewers for quick, even cooking. Want something with more room to mix and toss? Reach for a grill basket or try the Brander T-Topper Grill Pan for veggies that cook evenly without falling through the grates. Short on time? Line things up on an ALCAN BBQ Buddy Aluminum Tray for a no-fuss cleanup.
Bonus: those enticing grill marks might just make your kids more inclined to eat their veggies.
4. Keep It Safe, Not Sketchy
Handling food safely doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does make a big difference. Start by keeping your raw meat and ready-to-eat items separate. Cross-contamination isn’t just unpleasant — it can be dangerous.
Use cutting boards designated for raw proteins, and consider wearing gloves to help prevent bacteria from spreading to surfaces or other ingredients.
To make sure your food is fully cooked, reach for a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of grilling and helps you avoid serving undercooked meat just because it “looked done.”
And when it’s time to serve, switch to a clean plate — don’t reuse the one that held raw meat. Your stomach will thank you.
Finally
Grilling is one of the easiest ways to eat well without overthinking it. Whether you’re working on your health goals or just trying not to fall face-first into a bag of chips, the barbecue has your back. It’s quick, it’s flavourful, and it makes real food feel exciting again.
Need tools, tips, or just an excuse to upgrade your setup? Swing by your local Barbecues Galore store and chat with our experts. We’ve got everything you need to keep things fresh, simple, and seriously tasty — no meal prep burnout required.
