Another big football game is upon us, and whether you’re an actual football fan, or are just there for the halftime show and commercials (raises hand guiltily), the snacks are probably the most important part of the entire experience (prepares for hardcore football fan backlash).
But really, just Google gameday snacks and you’ll either be amazed or horrified at the absolute gigantism of some of the spreads dedicated football snack fans have prepared. From miniature ‘snack stadiums’ built with pigs in a blanket, hot wings, and mac and cheese cups, to things like ‘cheesy bacon dip’ and ‘tater tot nachos’, the super bowl welcomes absolute anarchy as far as snacks go.
And although I would never refuse macaroni and cheese in cup form, I think there is some merit in a snack lineup that won’t leave you wanting to close your eyes and literally dissolve into the wall Stranger Things style while the game is still on.
These snack recipes combine your favourite greasy snack foods with veggies–in a good way. They’re all easy to make, and definitely ‘treat-y’ enough to be served on game day, but will allow you to come and go with your daily cholesterol levels–and wallet, for that matter–still in good shape. Snack stadiums can be healthy too!
Ginger and Garlic Shrimp
It’s hard to find a better pair than ginger and garlic, and this recipe takes this winning combo and marries it to grilled shrimp skewers and a tangy, seasoned tomato dipping sauce. Prep your shrimp a few hours before grill time with this killer marinade, then serve this dish up with toothpicks for your guests to dig and dip into.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Skip the chicken and opt for this plant-based spin on hot wings! You’ll be amazed by how well cauliflower takes on the buffalo flavour you know and love–even die-hard hot wing lovers won’t contest once they taste these bites for themselves. Especially when you consider that chicken wings contain about 70 calories per wing, the cauliflower bites might start lookin’ real good.
Feta and Basil Eggplant Rolls
Anyone feel subtly impressed by appetizers and foods that have been rolled up? Well, these eggplant rolls are incredibly, easy, cheap, and delicious. Filled with a creamy feta and ricotta blend, you’ll be satisfying game goers of all different tastes!
Deep-Fried Zucchini Sticks
It wouldn’t be a super bowl party without some deep-fried treats at the snack table. But instead of reaching for those mozzarella balls that you know COULD be deep fried (but should they be?), why not opt for veggies? We love these deep fried zucchini sticks, but once you get going with the deep fryer the options are endless. Pickles, anyone?
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Footballs
If you’re short of time, I’d recommend enlisting some youngins to help you with the decorating. The concept is simple, just heat up some chocolate chips so that they become melted enough to coat your strawberries. Then melt some white chocolate and transfer to a plastic sandwich bag so that you can pipe the white chocolate over the strawberries and design the football patterns. Relevant and delicious.
Do you have any go-to Superbowl snack recipes for game day? Share your favourites in the comments, especially if you decide to go for a snack stadium. Can you tell I’m into the snack stadium idea? Mm…