Physical Wellness

10 Healthier Party Options to Eat

By Cheri Cheng | Update Date: Sep 26, 2014 02:39 PM EDT

Whether it is for the Super Bowl or a birthday, people love hosting parties. At these events, food, snacks and drinks are necessities. Even though traditional options, such as burgers, pizza, and chip and dip, are extremely popular, they are definitely not the healthiest foods you can pick.

Here are 10 Party Food Ideas that are Healthy:

1. Cocktail Shrimp

If it is in your budget, cocktail shrimp is a healthy appetizer to include. Shrimps are low in calories and fat but pack good levels of protein and zinc. Even though shrimps are available all year round, serving it during warmer days can give your guests a cooler option to turn to.

2. Chicken

Just because you are barbecuing does not mean that you have to always pick red meat. Instead, add a grilled chicken option. Chicken provides a great source of protein without the same amount of fats as red meats. To make this option even healthier, stick to skinless pieces and marinate them overnight to add tons of flavors.

3. Guacamole

Even though buying premade dips might be easier, those dips are often made with a lot of questionable ingredients. They are also high in calories and fat. Instead of buying those cheesy dips, take the time to make guacamole, which only requires a few ingredients. The main ingredient, avocado, is a good source of healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels.

4. Vegetables and Dip

Raw vegetables might not sound appealing to many people. However, when paired with dips, they can taste pretty good. If you want to make this plate healthier, replace creamy dips, such as ranch, with hummus.

5. Edamame

Edamame is typically served as an appetizer at Japanese restaurants. Due to its popularity, you can find these soybeans in the frozen section of some markets. Pick up some bags, steam them and offer them as a snack to party guests. Edamame is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins A and C, and iron.

6. Popcorn

Popcorn is also a great snack to serve at parties. They contain good levels of fiber and antioxidants. Buy unflavored kernels, pop them yourself and go easy on the butter. You can also toss them in different seasonings for more flavors.

7. Mixed Nuts

Placing a bowl of mixed nuts is another healthy snack to offer. Nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, magnesium and vitamin E. You can serve then raw and unsalted, which is the healthiest way to go, or you can roast them and add seasonings for an extra kick.

8. Fruit and Cheese

Although cheese is high in fat, eating it in moderation can be healthy. A fruit and cheese plate is packed with calcium and vitamins.

9. Potatoes

Potatoes are often viewed as unhealthy foods. However, potatoes have gotten that bad reputation because of how people prepare them. Instead of frying potatoes or drenching them in mayonnaise, make a healthier potato salad. A medium sized potato has a good amount of fiber, protein and iron.

10. Fruit Salad

Do not forget the fruits! A fresh fruit salad is an excellent way to end a night. The fruits are a great source of natural sugar. If you use berries, the salad will be packed with antioxidants. If you opt for other options, such as oranges, the salad will be rich in vitamin C. Most fruit combinations will yield healthy benefits.

Even though these options are healthier, remember to eat them in moderation!

© 2023 Counsel & Heal All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Join the Conversation

Real Time Analytics