Super Bowl 2009 will take place on Saturday, February 1. Only a few weeks into the New Year, Super Bowl parties are oftentimes the downfall of a many New Year’s resolutions to lose weight or eat healthier. This year why not enjoy your Super Bowl party while still remaining faithful to your resolutions? With just a few minor changes to the menu, you can have a fun and healthy Super Bowl celebration.
Healthy Alternatives to Potato Chips and Other Salty Snacks:
Chips are a favorite Super Bowl snack. Nonetheless, they are high in salt and fat content. For a healthier alternative, consider serving one or more of the following:
Homemade sweet potato chips – In lieu of salty potato chips or cheese puffs, consider tasty sweet potato chips. This is a really delicious treat and simple to make. Peel and slice sweet potatoes into round chips. Spread chips on cookie tray and spray with olive oil or vegetable cooking spray. Bake in oven on 400 degrees for about 15 minutes. Turn chips over and bake on the other side. Remove from oven and sprinkle with either salt, or a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon. Absolutely delicious!
Jay’s “No-Salt” Chips – These are a tasty alternative to traditional salty potato chips, and can be found at most grocery stores. Serve with a more healthy dip such as salsa or bean dip.
Healthy Alternatives to Sugary Drinks:
An important part of a Super Bowl menu is beverage selections. Soda pops and other popular drinks are high in sugar and a waste of calories. Some alternatives to sodas include:
Fresh Juices mixed with sparkling water- Provide guests with a choice of apple, orange or grape juice. Mix (half and half) with carbonated or sparkling water.
Green Tea – Many nutritionists and health experts speak of the health benefits of green tea. Make a large pitcher of green tea and while warm sweeten with honey. Serve the tea in a punch bowl with slices of oranges, lemons and limes.
Healthy Alternatives to Standard Pizza and Sub Sandwiches
Low-Fat Turkey Sub Sandwiches – Make healthy submarine sandwiches using lean meat such as turkey, low-fat cheese (mozzarella is a good choice) and lots of veggies. Present sandwiches with just meat and cheese and allow guests to build their own sandwich. Offer a variety of dressings including a variety of mustards, mayonnaise/salad dressings along with an array of vegetables and other toppings. Some suggestions include peppers (sweet and hot), tomatoes, olives, pickles, lettuce, alfalfa sprouts and spinach.
Homemade pizza – You can create a healthy pizza with a few changes in ingredients. Begin with a whole wheat crust and low-fat cheese. Add a variety of vegetables such as spinach, onions, peppers, eggplant and tomatoes along with other tasty items like mushrooms and feta cheese.
White chicken chili – Soups and chili’s can be a great addition to a Super Bowl Party. Soups can be kept warm and easily served in a crock pot. White chicken chili is an excellent choice. Make from scratch or purchase pre-made from a food service such as Gordon’s.
Healthy Sweets and Other Treats
No Super Bowl party can be a success without some sweet treats. To avoid sabotaging your diet, try these treats that are a lot more healthy then traditional cookies, candy and other sweets.
Trail Mix – Combine raisins, craisins, dried cherries, walnuts, pecans and dark chocolate together for a tasty treat.
Fresh Fruit – Offer your guests and array of fresh fruit. Mix together for a tasty fruit salad. Top fruit salad with low-fat yogurt, granola and/or low-fat whip cream.
Explore the internet for low-calorie cakes and cookies to add to your healthy Super Bowl menu. Have a fun and healthy Super Bowl party.
