Memorial Day BBQ on a Budget
Memorial Day is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means it's time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious BBQ with family and friends. However, with ground beef prices soaring, you might be wondering how to keep your cookout affordable without sacrificing flavor. The price of 80/20 fresh ground beef burgers is up 14.6% in 2024 from 2023, for example, and relish is up a whopping 48.7%. But don't worry—we've got you covered! Here are some budget-friendly BBQ alternatives to help you save money in any way you can, while still achieving max flavor and nutrition!
Tips + ideas to help you save
1. Delicious Kabobs: A Versatile and Cost-Effective Option
Kabobs are a fantastic way to serve a variety of flavors while keeping costs down. You can mix and match affordable ingredients to create mouth-watering combinations. Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken Kabobs: Chicken is generally less expensive than beef. Marinate chicken breast or thighs in a flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Add chunks of bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious skewer.
- Veggie Kabobs: Go vegetarian with a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a dash of Italian seasoning, then grill until tender and slightly charred.
- Mixed Protein Kabobs: Combine smaller amounts of different proteins like chicken, shrimp, and sausage with vegetables. This way, you still get a bit of everything without breaking the bank.
2. Pork: An Affordable and Flavorful Alternative
Pork often provides a more budget-friendly alternative to beef without compromising on taste. Here are some options:
- Pork Shoulder or But: Slow-cook these cuts to make pulled pork sandwiches. A simple rub of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and salt will infuse the meat with incredible flavor. Serve with coleslaw on buns for a classic BBQ experience.
- Pork Chops: Marinate pork chops in a mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Grill them until they're juicy and perfectly caramelized.
3. Change it up with salad as a main!
Do a salad as your main dish! Creating a meal centered around salad as the main dish, complemented by meat, can be a savvy and budget-friendly option. By prioritizing fresh, seasonal vegetables as the foundation of your meal, you not only pack in essential nutrients but also keep costs down. Utilizing affordable cuts of meat, such as chicken thighs or ground turkey, adds protein and flavor without breaking the bank. With the right balance of vegetables, proteins, and perhaps some grains or legumes for added substance, a hearty salad becomes a satisfying and economical option for any mealtime. This approach not only stretches your grocery budget but also encourages creativity in the kitchen, as you explore different combinations of ingredients and dressings to keep your meals exciting and budget-friendly.
Check out this salad recipe with Ruvi-infused salad dressing as a perfect option with some grilled chicken!
4. Creative Burgers: Beyond Beef
If you love burgers but want to avoid the high cost of ground beef, try these alternatives:
- Turkey Burgers: Ground turkey is often cheaper than beef and can be just as tasty with the right seasoning. Mix in breadcrumbs, an egg, chopped onions, and your favorite spices before grilling.
- Bean Burgers: For a vegetarian option, make bean burgers with black beans, oats, onions, and spices. They’re hearty, nutritious, and inexpensive.
- Chicken Burgers: Ground chicken can be transformed into delicious burgers. Mix with herbs, garlic, and a bit of grated cheese for added flavor.
5. Affordable Sides + Snacks to Complete Your Feast
Sides + snacks can also help keep your BBQ budget-friendly. Consider these inexpensive and delicious options:
- Corn on the Cob: Grill corn on the cob and serve with a variety of flavored butters, like garlic herb or chili lime.
- Potato Salad: A classic BBQ side that’s both cheap and easy to make. Add hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and a tangy mayo-mustard dressing.
- Coleslaw: Cabbage is inexpensive and goes a long way. Make a simple coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing.
With a little creativity and planning, you can host a fantastic Memorial Day BBQ without breaking the bank. Plus, let Ruvi help you add a nutritious boost to your BBQ with our whole fruit and vegetable drink mixes. Just because you're saving money on your BBQ doesn't mean you have to skimp on nutrition. Cheers to a healthy, happy holiday!