Heading to the cottage doesn’t have to mean giving up healthy eating—especially for those managing diabetes. In fact, with a bit of planning, it’s easy to enjoy delicious, satisfying meals that help keep blood sugar in check while still embracing the relaxed, outdoor lifestyle that cottage life is all about.
Whether you’re cooking over a campfire, using a compact kitchen, or firing up the grill, there are many ways to make diabetes-friendly meals that are simple, fresh, and satisfying.
1. Focus on Whole, Fresh Ingredients: Stock up on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Foods like grilled fish, chicken, quinoa, beans, and summer vegetables (zucchini, peppers, tomatoes) are not only nutrient-rich but also easy to prepare and full of flavour.
2. Choose Lower-Carb Options When Possible: Substitute high-carb sides with lower-carb alternatives. Think cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, or lettuce wraps instead of burger buns. These swaps help manage blood sugar without compromising taste.
3. Keep Snacks Balanced: While relaxing at the lake, it’s tempting to graze on chips or sweets. Instead, go for balanced snacks like apple slices with peanut butter, Greek yogurt with berries, or a small handful of nuts with cheese to keep energy up and glucose stable.
4. Watch Out for Sugary Sauces and Marinades: Many store-bought sauces and marinades are high in added sugars. Opt for homemade versions using olive oil, herbs, garlic, citrus juice, and vinegar—or look for sugar-free options.
5. Plan for Simple Meals That Reheat Well: Batch-cook meals like chili, veggie-packed soups, or grilled chicken that can be easily reheated or repurposed throughout the weekend. This saves time and helps avoid last-minute, less healthy choices.
6. Stay Hydrated Without Extra Sugar: Cottage time often means sunny weather, so staying hydrated is key. Choose water, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime, or herbal iced teas over sugary drinks or alcohol.
With a few smart choices, meals at the cottage can be both diabetes-friendly and delicious. Keeping nutrition in mind doesn’t mean giving up on taste or fun—it just means being thoughtful about ingredients and balance. Now that you’re ready to plan your menu, here are a few recipe ideas to get you started…
Grilled Fish Sandwich with Spicy Mango Slaw & Yogurt Sauce
Grilled Marinated Mediterranean Chicken Breast
Grilled Chicken Burgers with Avocado Slaw & Spicy Yogurt Sauce
Grilled Peanut-Ginger Satay Tofu
Marinated Grilled Korean Steak Tacos with Cucumber Salad
Grilled Fish Tacos
Grilled Marinated Veggies
Grilled Dessert Kabobs
