The Johnston household was filled with healthy snacks during the Patriots game last Sunday. Although it isn’t quite right without the wings, dips, and beer, I must say I felt pretty satisfied after eating these yummy snacks. Here are a few of my favorite healthy game day recipes:
Instead of putting a bowl of hummus in front of the veggie platter I separated it in to portion controlled cups. Two tablespoons of hummus was measured into each cup with plenty of chopped veggies. This helped avoid the habit of mindlessly dipping into a large bowl because there was a more definite end to the snack. My family was very surprised at how full they were after just one of these portioned cups.
This recipe was very simple to make and required minimal prep. The sauce mixed with a little bit of cheese gave us the savoriness we were looking for with a fraction of the calories and fat as traditional pizza bites.
This platter idea is one of my favorites for parties. The lettuce is chopped and kept in a separate bowl for serving. The platter contains rows of different toppings including veggies, healthy fats, and protein. This way you don’t have to worry about someone not liking part of the salad – they can leave out what they don’t like!
Here are some extra tips for success for the times when you’re not the one hosting the party:
- Offer to bring something: Even having just one healthier option available can help keep you from over indulging on the traditional (more calorie dense) options. Bringing something will help you ensure there is a healthy option available.
- Portion control is key: Oftentimes hosts will have appetizer plates available for use. Take advantage of this by measuring out a little of everything you would like to eat on to the plate then walk away from the food. Portioning the snack and then stepping away allows you to be more mindful of the amount you are eating as well as hunger cues.
- Don’t deprive yourself: There is nothing wrong with eating something other than vegetables. Most of the options will have some source of protein to help fill you up. However, instead of finishing the whole platter of wings stick to just one or two with a handful of chopped veggies on the side.
Enjoy the snacks – but remember, there’s a game to watch! GO PATS!!
– Carly & Courtney