The Super Bowl is right around the corner!
For football fans (like me), it means hours of what is hopefully a really great game to watch. For food fans (also like me), it means tons of delicious food: a great spread shared with friends. And for non-football fans – at least you get the food and the commercials!
But for many people, Super Bowl party menus are often a land of temptation – I mean, who can resist mozzarella sticks and 7 layer dip and fries? I definitely can’t – but I also don’t want to overstuff myself with greasy fried food until I feel sick.
And so, I’ve pulled together a menu of Super Bowl party treats, totally made over to be healthy for you too! You won’t even notice the difference, because these recipes are just as tasty as the original un-healthy versions, and you’ll be able to indulge on game day guilt-free.
First Up: The Appetizers
Guilt-Free 7 Layer Bean Dip
What makes this recipe healthier than the original? Refried vegetarian black beans, mashed avocado, 0% greek yogurt instead of sour cream, veggies and a tiny bit of cheese! Serve it up with baked tortilla chips and it’s actually a great meal. Check out the recipe here.
Skinny Baked Mozzarella Sticks from Gina’s Skinny Recipes
Thanks to Gina’s amazing swaps, these ooey gooey mozzarella sticks have only ~87 calories for 2 pieces, and only 4.8g fat! Thanks Gina for the recipe!
Arugula, Corn and Tomato Salad
If you want a salad for your Super Bowl spread, try this one. It has barely any calories because it’s basically veggies with just a tiny bit of goat cheese added for some tang. Try the recipe here.
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries
Swapping in sweet potatoes for regular potatoes and baking these fries in the oven makes them super healthy for you, rich in fiber and Vitamin A, and guilt-free! They only take about 5 min of prep time too, and then just throw them in the oven and wait for the deliciousness to happen. Here is this amazing recipe.
Homemade Guacamole
While yes, guacamole/avocados do have a lot of fat – it’s all healthy fat! And with the spices and texture of this particular guacamole, a little bit goes a long way. Try the recipe here.
Now it’s time for the entrees:
What’s a super bowl party without burgers and chili? These two healthy swaps will make you forget they’re actually good for you!
The Best Vegetarian Chili Ever
You won’t even miss the meat in this smoky, hearty chili. And the best part is, two huge ladle-fulls are only about 270 calories, and have 16g protein and 16g fiber! Here is the recipe for the chili that my husband can’t get enough of.
Lastly, 5 Different Ways with Veggie Burgers
You can take a frozen veggie burger patty and make it into a delicious meal! These 5 recipes prove that to be the case. There’s a different type of burger for every type of Super Bowl Party goer. And of course, by substituting a veggie patty and a whole wheat bun – you get a super-good-for-you meal!
Now, for a few tips for those of you who don’t have control over your super bowl party menus. Because all of us won’t be hosting our own super bowl parties, and while there is an opportunity to bring a dish to help contribute to the spread, there might be some of the traditional game-day recipes waiting for you at whichever party you go to! So while you’re watching the game, keep these 5 tips in mind:
1. Eat Mindfully: Don’t graze at the buffet table at every commercial break. Take one small plate of food and stick to it. Try to fill up 2/3 of it with healthier/nutritious options, leaving 1/3 for indulgences. If you want a bit of everything (which I often do), take a small (golf-sized) portion of each item – think small bites. Also, sit as far away from the buffet as possible so you’re not tempted after you’re done with your plate!
2. Try to stay away from the fried stuff: And if you have to, just take one chicken wing or one mozzarella stick for an indulgent taste.
3. Remember that drinks have calories too! 1 glass of beer has 100 calories, as does 1 glass of wine. Mixed drinks have way more calories and sugar, so stick to beer and wine if you can!
4. Work out on game day: The players are working hard, why shouldn’t you too? I like going for a run in the morning before I head out for the day – it energizes me and gives you a bit of wiggle room if you’re trying to stick to a healthy diet.
5. Don’t overdo the sweet treats: Again, if you want a bit of everything, take literally 1 bite of each dessert – about 1-2 Tbsp worth. Or, if you’re feeling really healthy – go for some fruit with a scoop of fro-yo.
