Keeping it healthy while enjoying American football!!!
Football season is in full swing!! My family prefers college football to the NFL but are fans of former OU quarterbacks Baker Mayfield, Jalen Hurts and of course Travis Kelce who played for the University of Cincinnati. With that said, many of us look forward to gathering with friends and family for game day festivities. However, traditional game day foods can often be heavy and unhealthy. The good news is that you can enjoy your favorite snacks while making healthier choices! Here’s a guide to delicious, nutritious alternatives that cater to gluten-free and vegan diets, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun. You can always mix and match your offerings to balance and have some other favorites, but here we are offering some healthier options.
Classic Game Day Favorites and Their Healthier Alternatives
1. Chips and Dip
Traditional Option: Potato chips and creamy dips.
Healthy Alternatives:
- Baked Sweet Potato Chips: Slice sweet potatoes thinly, toss with a little olive oil and sea salt, and bake until crispy. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and vitamins.
- Guacamole or Hummus: Pair with veggie sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers) or gluten-free tortilla chips. Guacamole is rich in healthy fats, while hummus offers plant-based protein.
2. Buffalo Wings
Traditional Option: Fried chicken wings with spicy sauce.
Healthy Alternatives:
- Cauliflower Buffalo Wings: Toss cauliflower florets in a mix of gluten-free breadcrumbs and hot sauce, then bake until crispy. They’re low in calories and high in fiber.
- Vegan Chickpea Salad Sandwiches: Mash chickpeas with vegan mayo, celery, and hot sauce for a flavorful filling on gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps.
3. Pizza
Traditional Option: Pepperoni or cheese pizza with a wheat crust.
Healthy Alternatives:
- Cauliflower Crust Pizza: Make a crust using riced cauliflower, almond flour, and vegan cheese. Top with your favorite veggies and marinara sauce for a guilt-free treat.
- Portobello Mushroom Pizzas: Use large portobello caps as a base, topped with tomato sauce, vegan cheese, and assorted veggies.
4. Nachos
Traditional Option: Tortilla chips topped with cheese and ground beef.
Healthy Alternatives:
- Black Bean Nachos: Layer baked corn tortilla chips with black beans, fresh salsa, avocado, and jalapeños. Black beans add protein and fiber, making this a more nutritious option.
- Vegan Cheese Sauce: Create a delicious cheese sauce using blended cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices for a creamy topping.
5. Desserts
Traditional Option: Cookies or brownies.
Healthy Alternatives:
- Energy Bites: Mix oats, nut butter, chia seeds, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Roll into balls for a sweet, protein-packed snack.
- Vegan Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder and a natural sweetener for a creamy, rich dessert that’s also dairy-free and gluten-free.
Tips for a Healthy Game Day
- Plan Ahead: Preparing snacks in advance can save time and ensure you have healthy options on hand. Consider batch cooking items like the cauliflower wings or energy bites.
- Stay Hydrated: Replace sugary sodas or alcoholic beverages with sparkling water infused with fruits or herbal teas. Staying hydrated will help you feel your best during the festivities.
- Portion Control: Use smaller plates or bowls for snacks to help manage portions. This allows you to sample a variety of foods without overindulging.
- Mindful Eating: Focus on the flavors and textures of your food. Eating mindfully can enhance satisfaction and help prevent overeating.
Wrapping up
Football season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing health for enjoyment. With these delicious and nutritious alternatives, you can savor your favorite game day snacks while keeping your meals gluten-free and vegan. Gather your friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy a healthy game day that everyone will love! Let the festivities begin!
Mothersense and Miscellaneous 