As the day of the Super Bowl draws near (Sunday, February 12, 2023), how are you planning to celebrate? Most Super Bowl festivities are filled with high-calorie, high-fat food and drinks like nachos, chicken wings and alcohol. This year, whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or attending one, make a pact to enjoy the day while also keeping your health in mind.
Here are some tips for enjoying a healthy Super Bowl that won’t get you off track.
Consider the Super Bowl Menu
It doesn’t matter whether you’re staying at your house or going to someone else’s. Take a moment to consider (or ask) what’s on the menu. Look for a balance between everyday favorites like chips, dips and fried foods and some healthy alternatives. Add in some fresh vegetables and ranch or blue cheese dressing, fruit and cheese, or baked chicken strips so there can be healthy options for everyone. If you are attending someone else’s gathering, choose to contribute a dish that’s on the lighter side. You won’t be disaapointed!
Watch What You Drink
Calories from beverages can add up quickly. Alcohol, soda and juices are often forgotten about and consumed without moderation. Consider calorie-free seltzers and flavored water for something lighter. Alternate caloric and non-caloric options to reduce your overall intake of calories from beverages. Chances are, you won’t even notice much of a difference.
Be Mindful of What You Eat
During social events, mindless eating is pretty common. Many people eat while chatting by the food table or munching on snacks during the game. Make mindful decisions during the Super Bowl such as eating away from the food table, using a small plate, and eating only in the “food area” — aka the kitchen or dining room, not in the living room in front of the T.V.
Don’t Expect to Be Perfect
Allow a little room for a treat or something “extra.” It’s hard to eat “perfect” at a social event when there are snacks galore. Prior to the event, choose one or two extras to have during the party. Allow yourself to enjoy those foods without feeling guilty! Fill the rest of your plate with healthier, lower-calorie options.
Try the recipe below for your Super Bowl party.
Air Fryer Loaded Zucchini Skins
Source: Delish.com
Ingredients:
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 2 slices turkey bacon
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 pound total)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 1 large avocado, halved, pitted, and flesh scooped
- 3 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves, plus more for serving
- 1 small jalepeno, stemmed, seeded, and finally chopped, divided
Directions:
- Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place bacon in basket and cook at 350 degrees, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crisp, about five minutes. Transfer bacon to a cutting board. Let cool slightly, then finely chop.
- Meanwhile, cut zucchini in half lengthwise, then in half crosswise. Using a teaspoon, scoop out seeds, creating eight boats with roughly a quarter inch-thick sides and bottoms. Lightly spray zucchini with cooking spray; season with a quarter teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
- Working in batches if necessary, in the air fryer basket, arrange zucchini cut side up in a single layer, spacing about 1/8″ apart. Cook at 400 degrees until just tender and starting to turn golden in spots, about seven minutes.
- Remove air fryer basket and carefully (basket will be hot) fill zucchini with cheese. Return to air fryer and continue to cook at 400 degrees until cheese is bubbly and golden, one to two minutes more.
- Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mash avocado with a fork. Stir in tomatoes, onion, lime juice, cilantro, two teaspoons jalepeno, and remaining quarter teaspoon of salt.
- Arrange zucchini boats on a platter. Spoon guacamole into zucchini boats. Top with bacon, more cilantro, and remaining jalepeno.
Have a fun, action-packed, and healthy Super Bowl!
