Barbecue Your Way to Health and Happiness

By Kristin Sidorov
Barbecuing is an essential summer ritual that sums up the very best in outdoor fun. But is it good for you, too? According to a recent study, barbecues are actually beneficial to our mental health. Great news, especially for attendees of the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in Memphis.

According to a published report in Psychological Science, burgers, wings and other “comfort foods are associated with relationships and alleviate loneliness [in people with positive associations to relationships].” So grab those buns and jump in on the fun with our mood-lifting grilling recipes–you’ll be a happy, healthy barbecue pro come summertime.

Go, Grill: BBQ-Friendly Recipes
–10 Tips for Grilling the Perfect Burger (BBQ Makes Everything Better)

–Jack and Coke Barbecue Ribs (Our Life in the Kitchen)

–Paprikish Pork Skewers (The Washington Post)

–A Collection of Grilling Favorites (everything from wine burgers to orange grilled mahi) (Our Life in the Kitchen)

–Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Skewers (I Nom Things)

–Grilled Zucchini Ribbon Salad (A Full Measure of Happiness)

Warm-Weather Party Drinks (Delish)

–10 Best Low-Fat Recipes for the Grill (including spiced pork tenderloins and corn quesadillas) (Delish)

–Perfect Recipes for a Grilling Newbie (The Kitchn)

Grilling Basics
–Barbecue Tools 101: What You Need to Make Barbecuing Easier and Safer (Celebrating Barbecue)

–The 4 Great Styles of American Barbecue (Celebrating Barbecue)

–5 Grilling Gadgets that Will Help Your Next BBQ (The Kitchn)