Next-Level Game Day Snacks

Before you kick back to watch the big game, try some (or all!) of these game day noshes. They’re quick, tasty, and super satisfying. Now, that’s what we call a win!

Grilled Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is an easy way to add satisfying lean protein to your snack rotation. For a kicked-up spin on an old classic, try ‘em spiced and grilled.

Make it. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 1 clove minced garlic, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Add 1 pound (500 g) peeled, deveined raw shrimp, and season with salt and pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes. Cook on a grill pan, sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, over medium-high heat, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp to a serving platter. Serve with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.

Makes 8 servings. 

Per serving: 65 calories, 2 g total fat, 0 g saturated fat, 91 mg cholesterol, 68 mg sodium, 1 g carbs, 0 g fiber, 0 g total sugars, 0 g added sugars, 11 g protein

Prosciutto, Mozzarella, and Melon Skewers

Prosciutto, mozzarella, and melon spell the perfect combo of sweet and savory. But who has time to fuss with a fork and knife when your eyes are glued to the screen? Grab a bunch of these little skewers instead for big flavor, yet way less mess.

Make it. Slice 3 ounces (90 g) of prosciutto into 12 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick strips. Arrange 12 toothpicks on a serving platter. Thread each toothpick with 1 cube cantaloupe, 1 slice prosciutto, 1 basil leaf, and 1 mini mozzarella (a.k.a. bocconcini) ball.

Makes 12 servings. 

Per serving: 41 calories, 2 g total fat, 1 g saturated fat, 10 mg cholesterol, 198 mg sodium, 2 g carbs, 0 g fiber, 1 g total sugars, 0 g added sugars, 3 g protein

Asparagus in a Blanket

Craving warm, doughy comfort, but not all the fat and sodium of old-school pigs in a blanket? Try these asparagus puffs. Bundled in crescent dough and seasoned with honey mustard and Parm, veggies never tasted so decadent.

Make it. Lightly roll 1 package ready-made crescent dough triangles on a cutting board. Cut each triangle in thirds and brush with honey mustard. Place 1 asparagus spear in the center of each dough slice. Gently wrap each spear in dough, allowing an inch of asparagus to poke through at the top and the bottom. Arrange on a baking sheet and lightly dust with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.

Makes 12 servings. 

Per serving: 88 calories, 4 g total fat, 1 g saturated fat, 1 mg cholesterol, 170 mg sodium, 12 g carbs, 1 g fiber, 5 g total sugars, 3 g added sugars, 2 g protein

Lighter 7 Layer Dip

Layers of Greek yogurt, black beans, and cheese make this dip so substantial you can practically serve it as a meal. But that’s not the only reason to love it. Made with 7 different kinds of veggies it’s loaded with fiber plus a healthy dose of antioxidants. Try it with sliced red pepper strips instead of chips for added color, nutrition, and crunch!

Make it. Heat 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add 1 medium chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in a 15-ounce (470 g) can unsalted black beans (rinsed and drained), 3 tablespoons water, and ¼ teaspoon each: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder (more if you like it spicy!). Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and lightly mash with a potato masher or fork.

Spread the bean mixture into an even layer in the bottom of 3-quart (3-liter) serving dish. Top beans with a layer of each of the following:

2 cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt

2 cups guacamole

1 cup chunky salsa mixed with 1 ½ cups thawed frozen corn 

1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar or Monterey jack cheese (or a combo of both)

2 cups shredded romaine tossed with 2 thinly sliced scallions

Serve with red pepper strips for dipping and fresh lime wedges.

Makes 12 servings. 

Per serving: 194 calories, 9 g total fat, 2 g saturated fat, 7 mg cholesterol, 301 mg sodium, 20 g carbs, 6 g fiber, 5 g total sugars, 0 g added sugars, 10 g protein