Superbowl - Supersnacks!

Super Bowl XLVI is almost here and if ypu're like most sports fans you have big plans. Food, friends and fun! But don't let your enthusiasm for the big game ruin your resolve to maintain a healthy approach your eating habits. Just remember that you are in charge and the resolutions you make today pay tremendous dividends tomorrow!

In general . . .

Try lighter grilling options and watch those sodas. Look for healthy alternatives in types of foods and how they are prepared. Always eat it fried? Try it baked. Still want meat? Make it lean. And as with most things, moderation goes a long way towards achieving a healthier lifestyle.

Meats

Most people want some meat in their diets and there are ways to reduce the known risks associated with the consumption of meats. Shop for lean meats. If shopping for beef look for tenderloin, sirloin, round and chuck. Purchase poultry breast and avoid the skin.

Recent trends in the pork industry have produced leaner hogs. Cuts such as center loin chops, boneless top loin chops, boneless top loin roast, and tenderloin are good options.

Remember to use good sense and keep portions reasonable. Try an alternative like a stew or bean dish that incorporates meat but provides healthy proteins that will make you feel satisfied.

Kebabs are a great way to mix lean meats with onions, tomatoes, peppers and just about anything else you can put on a skewer.

Still want that potato?

Have it baked and skip the fries but watch the toppings. Just as with salads, heavy calorie rich dressings can easily undo the best intentions. Even better, try one of the many delicious yam recipes available. Try to approach your meals and snacks with an open mind. Yams don't have to be the traditional sugary sweet stuff of Thanksgiving. Think savory not sweet.

Soup to nuts

Soups, stews, chilies and chowders make great Super Bowl party foods. Just remember to chop the ingredients fine enough to fit on a spoon. Consider serving in an insulated cup rather than a bowl. Nuts are a popular option and are a great part of a balance diet. Try walnuts, almonds, pecans and brazil nuts.

Many dishes can be adapted to the tailgate world. Use your imagination and rack up your own victory!

Easy Salsa Dip

6 tomatoes, preferably Roma (or 3 large tomatoes)
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely minced
2 serrano or jalapeno peppers, finely chopped
3 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
1/8 tsp oregano, finely crushed
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1/2 avocado, diced (black skin)
juice of 1 lime

Combine all ingredients in a glass bowl. Serve immediately or refrigerate and serve within 4 or 5 hours.

Per half cup serving: Calories–42, Fat–2 g, Saturated fat– < 1g, Cholesterol–0 mg, Sodium–44 mg, Carbohydrates–7 g

Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

1 14-oz. can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 10-oz. package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
8 oz. low-fat plain yogurt
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup green onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced

Add fresh ground pepper to taste.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Spoon mixture into 1-quart casserole dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Serves eight.

Per Serving: Calories–80, Fat–3 g, Calories from fat–34%, Cholesterol–10 mg, Sodium–220 mg, Carbohydrates–7 g

Sloppy Joes

Remember the key is in choosing leaner, healthier options. Watch the fat content and avoid excess salt especially in processed foods. When you make the meal, you control the salt.

HEALTHY RECIPE - Sloppy Joes

Servings Per Recipe: 6

1 pound lean ground beef
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
3/4 cup ketchup
3 teaspoons brown sugar
salt to taste - easy does it!
ground black pepper to taste

Directions

In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, onion, and green pepper; drain off liquids.

Stir in the garlic powder, mustard, ketchup, and brown sugar; mix thoroughly. Reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Amount Per Serving Calories: 246 | Total Fat: 15.8g | Cholesterol: 57mg

Coconut Shrimp

Super Bowl Shrimp (Makes 8 servings)

2/3 cup flaked coconut, toasted
1 pkt. Shake 'N Bake chicken coating mix
1 tsp. curry powder
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne)
1 egg
2 Tbsp. water
1 lb. uncooked extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions

Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine first 4 ingredients in pie plate; set aside.

Beat egg & water in separate pie plate with whisk until well blended.

Dip shrimp, 1 at a time, in egg, then coconut mixture, turning to completely coat both sides of each shrimp with egg before coating with coconut mixture; place on baking sheet sprayed with Pam.

Press coating mixture firmly onto shrimp to secure.