Happy Almost Independence Day!

So who is looking forward to a long, hopefully sunny three-day weekend? (Raises both hands high in the air!) MEEEEE! Happy Fourth, y'all! I know it's tough to keep things healthy when surrounded by so much delicious-looking, high-fat food...but there are ways to attend that barbecue and NOT dive into the closest plate of brownies.

Here are a few tips to help control your food intake over the holiday weekend:

* Don't show up hungry. Take time to eat a light, healthy snack before chowing down.
* When fixing your plate, make sure the bulk of it is fruits and veggies, such as salad, baked beans, corn, watermelon and grapes. That way you can fill up your belly faster with healthier items.
* Eating smaller portions is key. Yes, you can indulge in some mayo-licious potato salad and that scrumptious looking slice of cake. But don't pile a mountain of it on your plate or eat half a pie in one sitting.
* If you're heading to a BBQ at a friend or relative's house, bring some low-calorie snack options such as a fruit salad or raw veggies and hummus.
* Avoid adding lots of butter, salt and fatty dressings.
* Try not to get seconds until a few hours after you've eaten the first plate.
* Always eat dessert last.
* Drink lots of water. It will help fill you up.

Remember, you can always bring along your own cooler with healthier food options - or serve as a second chef and whip up some low-cal favorites for the masses. Here are some items I'm going to ATTEMPT to make this weekend. It all depends on how ambitious I'm feeling in the kitchen tonight.

Cucumber, Tomato and Red Onion Salad

Panang Curry Barbecue Chicken

Fresh Mango Sorbet

Either way, have a happy and healthy Fourth of July weekend!