Still planning your Super Bowl party? Why not offer your guests something a little healthier this year. Earlier this week, we looked at the shocking number of calories, fat, and sodium in popular Super Bowl snacks, and we shined the light on the way liquid calories can add up during the game. Today, this column brings you some healthy alternatives to enjoy along with the game.
Black bean dip Using this week’s good for you food, black bean dip provides fiber, protein, and a tasty haven for your chips. And this recipe couldn’t be easier. Rinse a can of black beans. Then dump them into a food processor with a little salsa, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Whir it together and you’re done. Almost as easy as opening a can of bean dip from the store, but so much healthier.
Nuts These get a bad rap because they’re high in fat, but they do contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, which may help lower your total cholesterol. Keep in mind that the flip side of high fat, even the healthier kind, is a high calorie content. Set out a bowl of unsalted nuts, but also set out small bowls so that guests can portion out their serving and eat in moderation.
Boneless buffalo wings It’s everyone’s favorite game day food, but traditional buffalo wings are a caloric train wreck. This version is baked rather than fried, and uses a few simple swaps like whole wheat flour and nonfat buttermilk.
Popcorn Does it get any easier? Plain popcorn, made from an air popper, is fast and filling. If you want to add a little zip, try tossing it with a little fresh grated Parmesan cheese, or dried herbs like basil and oregano. A little cumin and cayenne can give it some kick if you like yours spicy.
Sliders Instead of a huge, greasy burger, these turkey sliders with gorgonzola are a nice alternative. The gorgonzola gives it a decadent touch, but the small size makes it just the right size for keeping calories in check.
Veggie plate This should go without saying, but that veggie plate can be your best friend if you’re trying to watch your fat and calories this weekend. Don’t be shy. The more variety you put on that platter, the more nutrition you’re going to get. Try to use as many colors as possible. Choose baby carrots, grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, cauliflower, sugar snap peas, red, orange and yellow bell pepper, and broccoli, and skip the high-fat dips.
Lighter brownies This version uses smart swaps like egg whites, and unsweetened chocolate and cocoa. Or check out a favorite in the Boise Healthy Living Examiner’s home, black bean brownies. It might sound gross, but they are actually very tasty, with a fudgy texture. Your guests will never guess the secret ingredient.
Fruit salad Like your veggie plate, this is an opportunity to load up on fiber and antioxidants. WinCo has some nice strawberries right now, only $1.98 for a one pound carton. Toss them with chunks of mango, melon, kiwi, blueberries, and anything else that looks good at the market right now. This is a great way to satisfy that sweet tooth without loading up on calories. And you can munch on it throughout the game, guilt-free.
Talk it up:
What are some of your favorite healthy snacks for the big game?
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