Falling into a mindless munching trap during a high-stress sporting event like the Super Bowl can easily happen to the best of us. Not to worry — these 18 healthy eats are here to help. Even if you end up overindulging, each is lighter than the usual sporting event fare. The best part? No one will feel like they’re missing out on the fun; we’ve got you covered with chicken wings, creamy dips and so many more delicious and nutritious options.
1. Healthy Buffalo Dip: Made with a base of beans and cashews, this dip is filling without weighing you down. Scoop it up with carrot and celery sticks for even more of a Buffalo wing-esque experience (via The Balanced Berry)
2. Shrimp Lettuce Wraps: These lettuce wraps might be low in carbs, but they sure aren’t low in flavor. Top ’em off with a drizzle of Sriracha and some thinly sliced jalapeños to add a little bit more zing. (via Happy and Harried)
3. Feel Good Mac and Cheese: You can definitely feel good about enjoying a big helping of this healthy homemade mac. (via Deliciously Yum)
4. Ahi Tuna Tartar: If you’re a fan of tuna and avocado sushi rolls, you’ll love this tartar. Enjoy it with nori or kale chips, and we bet that you won’t miss the rice one bit. (via Malibu Kitchen)
5. Baked Brown Sugar Chicken Wings: These baked wings are every bit as crispy and finger lickin’ good as their fried counterparts (minus the grease). (via Damn Delicious)
6. Lightened Up Smoked Salmon Pate: This creamy pate doesn’t skimp on the salmon at all. Spread it on crackers, crudités and even bagels. (via Cakes by Chi Chi)
7. Roasted Veggie Crispy Tortillas With Creamy Chipotle Sauce: Smokey, spicy and tangy, the chipotle and Greek yogurt sauce drizzled atop this taco works beautifully with the sweet flavor of roasted veg. (via Yeah… immaeatthat)
8. Stuffed Jalapeños: This recipe goes to show that you don’t need a thick breadcrumb coating and vat of oil to make irresistible jalapeño poppers. (via The Crave Gallery)
9. Oven-Baked Beet Chips: These beet chips are almost too pretty to eat… almost. You definitely should enjoy them as a potato chip alternative along with your fave dip. (via Gather and Dine)
10. Chipotle Chicken Lettuce Wraps: It’s gettin’ hot in here. Creamy avocado helps temper the heat of these bright (and brightly flavored) wraps. (via What’s Gaby Cooking)
11. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas: Can rally enchiladas work their magic outside of baseball season? There’s only one way to find out… (via Catz in the Kitchen)
12. Spaghetti With Chicken Meatballs and Spicy Red Pepper Sauce: We’d gladly tuck into a pile of these spicy meatballs, with or without a tangle of pasta underneath. (via Crumb Blog)
13. Miso-Glazed Eggplant Dip: Baba ghanouj may be a classic, but it better watch its back. This twist — laced with miso and sesame oil — brings some serious competition to the table. (via The Blenderist)
14. Turkey Basil Chili Baked Potatoes: A splash of wine makes this turkey chili *extra* special. Whether you serve it over baked potatoes or enjoy it plain is up to you; it’s terrific whichever way you dish it up. (via Sifted Not Stirred)
15. Thick-Cut Oven Fries: Sometimes you just need a French fry. Holding the actual fry(ing) part makes these baked beauties a much healthier choice. (via Friday is Cake Night)
16. Crispy Baked Falafels, Asian-Style: Crispy and creamy chickpea fritters are absolutely divine served with an Asian-inspired slaw and gingery hummus. You’ll love the fusion of textures, flavors and cultures. (via No Spoon Necessary)
17. Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders: Chicken tenders aren’t just for the kiddos anymore. We’re thinking these tropical-tasting strips would be amazing served with a fruity salsa (mango, anyone?). (via The Wholesome Dish)
18. Skinny Mexican Pizza: Tostadas meet pizza to create these delish personal-size pies. Make your life easier by setting out the toppings and letting folks doll ’em up to their own liking. (via Snixy Kitchen)
What are some of your healthier snacks to nibble on during the Super Bowl? Share yours below.
Heather Sage
Heather Sage is a gluten-free recipe developer and freelance writer living in Orlando by way of the Silicon Valley. When she isn’t playing around with alternative flours in the kitchen, she can be found tackling DIY projects around the house or exploring her neighborhood. Check out her gluten-free recipe blog, A Sage Amalgam.
