Game on! Football Fare that Won’t Blow Your Diet
Football season is finally here, which means it’s time for wings, chips and dips, and possibly, a few extra pounds. But there’s good news: You can still enjoy the game and the goodies without gaining weight by calling in some healthy substitutes: these six delicious recipes. Game on!
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Air Popped Popcorn
Popcorn
Whether you make it with an air popper or use the microwave, a cup of my “Naked” Popcorn contains a mere 30 calories and is 100 percent delicious. In fact, this snack is so easy to make, I’m embarrassed to even call it a recipe. All you have to do is add 4 tablespoons of popcorn kernels to a brown paper lunch bag, fold over the bag twice to close it, and microwave on high for 1.5 to 2 minutes. To jazz things up, try drizzling on some hot sauce for a fiery kick, or sprinkle with cinnamon for a salty-sweet snack. Simply dip, devour, touchdown!
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Edamame Hummus
Edamame Hummus
Dips are always a fan favorite, but most are loaded with calories and filled with artery-clogging saturated fat. For a healthy spin, I use edamame to add both protein and fiber, a dynamic duo of nutrients that helps to curb appetite. Swap the chips for colorful veggies, and you have a filling and energizing snack that will keep your belly full and your taste buds satisfied. If you don’t have time to whip up my tasty Edamame Hummus, you can find packaged varieties in most grocery stores, so you can take advantage on days when game-time creeps up on you.
Southwestern Black Bean Dip
Southwestern Black Bean Dip
Need a great defense against heart disease? Try my Southwestern Black Bean Dip, which features black beans in the starring role. You can count on every scoop being packed with hunger-squashing fiber and lean protein. To serve, try cutting a 100 percent whole-grain, high-fiber tortilla into 1/8-inch strips, and bake in the oven until they are nice and toasty; these are a perfect base for a hearty dip. Be sure to pair the pita with a variety of colorful veggies for dipping, too.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach Artichoke Dip
My Spinach Artichoke Dip is always a guaranteed score. It’s low-calorie and served extra hot with lots of fresh veggies for a creamy crunch. Plus, spinach and artichokes are packed with heart-healthy nutrients, including potassium, folate and magnesium, key ingredients for reducing and maintaining healthy blood pressure. I promise you’ll have the whole crowd cheering for this one.
Pizza
Pizza
Everyone loves pizza, and it’s hard to imagine a game-day celebration without a bubbly, cheesy pie. Fortunately, you can have your slice without overdoing it by ordering a whole-grain, thin-crust pie and asking for light cheese. Instead of caloric and fattening pepperoni and sausage, opt for lots of colorful veggie toppings for a blast of vitamins and minerals. Want to make your own? Give my Tortilla Pizza Margherita a try. You can have an entire personal pie for just 172 calories. That way, you’ll be light on your toes for all of those touchdown dances you’ll be doing!
Layered Dip
Layered Dip
This is a standard in most game-day spreads, but dunk at your own risk. At up to 300 calories per serving, it can be costly! My leaner Layered Dip redo gives you all the same delicious flavors for just 130 calories. Talk about skinny dipping. Go ahead and dive in.
Buffalo Chicken Chili
Buffalo Chicken Chili
Here’s some good news for all you Buffalo wing buffs. I’ve perfected a slimming ground chicken stew that is low in fat and incorporates all of the rich, spicy flavors of Buffalo wings. My Buffalo Chicken Chili features celery, carrots and scallions for an extra boost of nutrition and shot of antioxidants. If you’re looking for a little something extra, be sure to try my simple Whipped Blue Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, mash ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles with your choice of ¼ cup low-fat or fat-free sour cream or nonfat, plain Greek Yogurt. Finish with a dash of cracked black pepper and you have yourself a tasty (and healthy!) garnish.
Touchdown…. 6 points
Field Goal….3 points
Safety…. 2 points
Eating healthfully…. Priceless!
Game On! Diet-Friendly Football Fare
Football season is finally here, which means it’s time for wings, chips and dips, and possibly, a few extra pounds. But there’s good news: You can still enjoy the game and the goodies without gaining weight by calling in some healthy substitutes: these six delicious recipes. Game on!