Meal Plan 48: Super Bowl Party Food

Even if you aren’t a huge fan of football, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t enjoy a good Super Bowl party. Many parties include yummy grain, dairy, and sugar-filled treats like pizza, nachos, cupcakes, and cookies. These treats can be pretty hard to pass up, after all, they taste pretty good, right? If you are like me, you put a lot of thought into your food choices. If I’m going to indulge, it better be worth it! (And it usually isn’t…) As I see it, there are three basic approaches to party going:
1) Throw caution to the wind and eat to your hearts content, knowing that you will likely suffer the consequences of your choices later,
2) Ensure that there are plenty of paleo options available to snack on (which may require you to bring some food contributions), or
3) Eat before you go.

I prefer option 2—which is even easier when you host the party yourself. Here are some of my favorite party foods. Some you can make yourself and some are easy to pick up at the grocery store. The fruit skewers are a great example of a sweet party food that’s made much more appealing by simply placing the fruit on a skewer so that it, in essence, becomes a finger food. If you are trying to lose weight, it’s not a good idea to gorge yourself on fruit, but at a party, it is a way healthier option that cookies and cupcakes! Another super quick and easy appetizer is a veggie platter. Not really exciting, but it definitely fulfills cravings for a little crunch (without the chips). With just a little more effort, you can whip up some kale chips and the almond bites. Both are quick and easy to put together—and SO good! Or try some warm appetizers like the stuffed jalapenos or paleo chicken wings. Super delicious results from just a little bit of planning. These two can both be prepared several hours in advance and then popped in the oven just before party time.

Whatever party approach you choose, I hope you have a great time watching the Super Bowl this weekend! Enjoy these paleo treats!