Super Bowl is a tradition in my family. We may cheer for different teams but the one thing that unites us is the food. We take turns hosting the event, yet for some reason everyone dreads my turn. They assume I would be serving them super healthy foods because I am a Registered Dietitian. The reality is that they will get healthier alternatives without sacrificing on the fun of familiar party foods.
One of my favourite party snacks is an open faced bite size sandwich. To make it, I spread Dijon mustard and quark (spreadable type of fresh cheese that is low in fat and salt) on a thin slice of whole wheat baguette bread, and top with smoked salmon and sliced cucumbers. These tasty bites are sure to become favourites while protecting your heart with their high fiber and omega 3 content.
Next one the menu: homemade root vegetable chips. Thinly cut potatoes, yams, rutabagas, carrots and parsnips. Arrange them in a single layer on parchment paper lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with olive oil and season to taste. Bake in 350F oven, until crispy and golden. Fat and salt content is greatly reduced in this home-made version, and vitamins and minerals bumped up thanks to the variety of veggies.
Finally, a party mix worthy of the biggest sporting event of the year can be made by throwing together ingredients that are already in your pantry. Combine multigrain Cheerios, Shreddies, and no added salt pretzels in a bowl. In a separate bowl mix a small amount of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the mixture over the cereal and stir until evenly coated. Then bake on low heat (250F) for about an hour, stirring often. Spread thinly to cool. This lower salt version of a popular snack will keep your blood pressure in check.
I try to offer healthier alternatives to my family whenever possible, as small changes make a difference, but if your Super Bowl Party sticks to already established party foods, it’s important to remember that one event will not ruin an otherwise healthy lifestyle. It’s what you do during the other 364 days of the year that counts.
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