It's Super Bowl time! This game of all games may be hugely exciting for sports fans, but it can also be a time of anxiety for people trying to stick to a clean diet. What can healthy eaters and fitness buffs do? Continue to skip out on the chips and dip and nibble on carrots and rice cakes? That might seem like the only option. You can, however, opt to "get creative."
If you're playing host or have been instructed to bring food to a pot-luck party, figuring out ways to keep guests happy and your calorie count within reasonable limits is challenging. But with mission "get creative," there's hope. By using smart substitutions like low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, swapping butter for virgin coconut oil, or using honey instead of sugar, you can continue to dip your treats without sacrificing your six-pack.
Need some ideas? Try these recipes!
1. High-Protein, Low-Fat Chocolate Peanut Butter
Who doesn't love the magical combo of chocolate and peanut butter? Instead of serving a bowl of Reese's at your Super Bowl party, try this recipe. Serve it in wraps, or put it in a bowl and arrange some home-baked pita chips. It's a treat that may get more attention than the game!
2. Yogurt Basil Spread
That veggie-and-ranch-dressing tray is a staple at almost every get-together. Sure the carrots and celery sticks are good, but what do you do about that calorie-laden ranch dressing? Swap it with this delicious yogurt spread, of course.
3. Coconut Yogurt Dip
Sweet potato fries are always popular. Bring them to the party with this dip and add some sweet, low-cal flavor to those delicious complex carbs.
4. Sweet 'n' Spicy Yogurt Spread
More than a billion chicken wings were eaten on Super Bowl Sunday last year. If they're on your menu again for 2013, try them with a healthier sauce. The tangy flavor will have your guests begging for more!
5. High-Protein Spinach and Mushroom Dip
Chips and dip are the most classic party food. Don't throw away your clean diet by dipping Doritos into microwaved Velveeta cheese and salsa. Instead, try this protein-filled dip with some brown rice crackers.
6. Blueberry Banana Butter
Need something sweet? Those cupcakes might look great, but they're full of refined sugar. This yummy butter is still sweet, but has far fewer calories and grams of sugar than most desserts. Serve it with pieces of home-made protein bread.
