Snack Wisely on Super Bowl Sunday
What would the Super Bowl be without wings, cheesy nachos and deep-dish pizza? If you’re hosting a Super Bowl watch party on February 12th, or if you plan to attend one, you may see these items as part and parcel of the Super Bowl experience. But, says Danielle Staub, a registered dietitian at Weill Cornell Medicine’s Center for Advanced Digestive Care, whether you’re a host or a guest, you can help to“lighten things up” with healthier options while indulging in some of the traditional dishes everyone enjoys.
“If you’re the one hosting the get-together, be very specific about what you’d like your guests to bring, and keep your requests simple: a fruit platter, crudités (raw vegetables), a salad or guacamole, for example. Chances are, you won’t be the only one trying to stay healthy,” she says.
Read on for Danielle’s best tips for a fun evening that combines the tried-and-true with healthy, tasty alternatives.
How can the host of a watch party make everyone feel comfortable while offering delicious alternatives to the usual high-fat, salty, processed fare?
I suggest offering familiar foods that aren’t too far out of people’s comfort zone while adding your own healthy twist. Try making sweet potato nachos using thinly sliced and baked sweet potato rather than chips. Add avocado, black beans and Pico de Gallo for a beautiful pop of color. Is this a different take on the traditional dish? Yes, but it’s also familiar. Have some Super Bowl staples too, just in case your guests are not feeling all that adventurous.
What are your favorite healthy snacks? Are they available at the supermarket, or do people need to go out of their way to find them?
My favorite healthy Super Bowl snacks include a simple guacamole spread, bean chili, baked or air-fried buffalo cauliflower, baked BBQ chicken, stuffed sweet potato skins and homemade flatbread pizzas. These are things that can be made with simple and nourishing ingredients. There’s also nothing wrong with incorporating a few store-bought items such as dips and pre-chopped veggies.
Please share a couple of healthy snack recipes.
Chili and cornbread just sing Super Bowl to me. Here are my go-to recipes:
Any other tips for making game day a big success?
- Make sure to eat balanced meals the day of the party, and try to get in a little exercise if you can.
- Try to fill up one plate and avoid going back for seconds (or thirds!).
- One day isn’t going to change much in terms of your overall health, so make sure to have FUN and enjoy every bite!
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