There are few things that smell better to me than a newly lit BBQ grill when summer is just around the corner. For most of us, the aroma of BBQ brings back memories of playing as a kid in the park or family picnics in the backyards. But if you immediately think of high-calorie sausages, bratwurst and hot dogs, and you fear the grill, think again.

You knew that I would suggest grilling the vegetarian burger, right? But if you are tired of overly processed, low calorie and soy laden veggie burgers, I have a new one for you! Check out Gardenburger’s new Gourmet Garden Steaks. The Gourmet Hula steak (vegan) is flavored with pineapple, sweet onions and ginger, and it contains a lovely 250 calories, 6 grams of protein per burger. It is really thick, juicy and totally filling. I have the other flavor in my freezer to try in the near future - made with roasted red pepper, couscous and garlic.

Whether you choose to eat meat or go vegetarian this summer, making kebab skewers can be so easy and allows for quick cooking and unique food presentation. Simply cut your meat and vegetables into 1/4 inch cubes, line up on the skewer, add a little olive oil, teriyaki or BBQ sauce and grill! Consider adding mango, pineapple or apple for a sweet touch. If you worry about burning the wooden skewers, Amazon carries stainless steel ones.

And when planning out your dinner, keep your kitchen free of dirty dishes and consider grilling all of your food, especially the vegetables. Asparagus, corn, portobello mushrooms and even fruit can taste 10x better when grilled!

Consider trying salmon, ahi tuna, tilapia, trout, halibut, swordfish, shrimp, etc. An easy way to grill fish: Add lemon juice, salt and pepper, herbs, wrap in aluminum foil and throw on the grill for a few minutes. It won’t take long, since the foil wrap keeps the steam inside.

Are you still concerned about the possible cancer link associated with grilling food on the BBQ? Grilling or cooking meat at very high temperatures for a long time does produce HCAs, a family of compounds which likely cause cancer. Grilled meats (beef, chicken, pork) do appear to cause the highest amount of HCAs, while vegetarian foods cause the least. Studies are still being performed to determine these links in humans, but in the meantime, it is recommended to minimize the need on your grill for high-temperature cooking for extended periods of time.

And whatever you choose to grill this summer, please be safe and let us know how it turned out!