We haven’t watched football at all this year. As a house of Bears and Browns (ouch) fans, there really wasn’t anything to see. Nevertheless, come Sunday, I’m sure we’ll be tuned in for the big game just like everybody else. Its safe to say that this year I’m in it for the snacks. And the commercials. But mostly the snacks.
I am a sucker for bar snacks like nachos and wings and have a bad habit of overindulging on Super Bowl Sunday. I’ve ended up with a bellyful of regret after more than a few big games. Thankfully, over the years I’ve learned a thing or two about balance. Since its a lesson I’m trying to impart on my children, especially when it comes to our eating habits at events and parties, I love finding foods that look and taste indulgent but offer some great nutrition and won’t leave you feeling awful when the game ends.
Below I’ve rounded up a few great game day snacks that score big on taste, presentation and nutrition.
Meatballs with Pomegranate Glaze
via Dani M. // The Inspire Home
These gorgeous meatballs look super indulgent but the sweet and tangy glaze is made with pomegranate, a powerful antioxidant. You’re getting some great protein and a serving a fruit to boot.
via Homemaker’s Habitat
These yummy lettuce wraps are an awesome way to satisfy those bacon cravings while still basically eating a salad. They make a great addition to a party buffet. Lay out all the fixings on a platter and watch your guests go crazy for them.
Turkey Spinach Pretzel Sliders with Sriracha Mayo
via Rebecca A. // The Inspired Home
These are a Friday night favorite at our house. There is so much happening in each mouthful — its a flavorful turkey burger, included with fresh spinach and green onion, creamy, spicy Sriracha mayo and a perfect pretzel bun to finish things off. I dare you to eat just one.
via Homemaker’s Habitat
I originally created this yummy sweet and salty snack for a Halloween party but have made it for a number of events since then. Start with freshly popped popcorn, which provides a serving of whole grain, and top it with a drizzle of white chocolate and your favorite candies, nuts and dried fruits. Customize your add-ins to make this snack as healthy (dried cranberries, almonds and dark chocolate chunks?) or indulgent (M&Ms and sprinkles?) as you desire.
via Billy P. // The Inspired Home
Whoa. That roasted beet hummus is calling my name. I’m definitely someone who “eats with my eyes” and those gorgeous colors are calling to me. No “ho-hum” happening with these hummuses.
Air Fried Spicy Chicken Fingers with Sriracha Honey Mustard
via Rebecca A. // The Inspired Home
I love chicken fingers. Actually, I love fried chicken. Like, really truly love and CRAVE fried chicken. And chicken fingers definitely fall into that same breaded/crunchy/juicy/chicken category so I love them too. What I don’t love is that greasy belly feeling you get after eating a big pile of the fried stuff. These chicken fingers are air fried, so they have that perfect golden fried chicken crunch with almost no oil. Winner winner chicken finger dinner.
Do you have a favorite healthier bar food/game day type snack or are you a purist? I do love a good plate of loaded nachos. Does anybody have a great recipe for those?
Side note: you may have noticed that there’s been an upswing of content on my site recently. I’m still working on the new site layout but would love your thoughts on the changes I’ve made so far in terms of additional content. Too much? Too little? Haven’t noticed? I’d love to hear your feedback!
