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Meal Prep for a Healthier Game Day Spread: Delicious Make-Ahead Recipes

Super Bowl Sunday is the perfect opportunity to indulge in fun snacks and tasty treats, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your health goals. With a little planning and some simple meal prep, you can create a healthier game day spread that’s just as delicious as the traditional favorites. From hearty quinoa chili to creamy hummus with crunchy veggie sticks, these make-ahead recipes will keep you feeling fueled and satisfied throughout the game. Let’s dive into some easy, nutrient-packed options that are perfect for a healthier game day celebration!

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1. Hearty Quinoa and Beef Chili

This updated quinoa chili includes grass-fed beef for an extra dose of protein while keeping all the hearty, healthy goodness of the original recipe. It's perfect for game day or meal prep!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb grass-fed ground beef
  • 1 cup organic quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup organic vegetable or beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Toppings: Avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt), shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Remove any excess grease if necessary.
  2. Push the beef to one side of the pot and add the olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Mix the beef and vegetables together, then stir in the quinoa, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the quinoa is tender and the flavors are well combined.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve the chili hot with your favorite toppings, like avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, or shredded cheese.
  7. Meal Prep Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

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2. Creamy Hummus with Veggie Sticks

Hummus is a healthy, creamy dip that pairs perfectly with fresh veggie sticks, providing a delicious combination of protein and fiber. It’s a crowd-pleaser and can easily be made ahead of time, so you don’t have to worry about preparing snacks on game day.

Ingredients for Hummus:

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Water, as needed for desired consistency

For Veggie Sticks:

  • Carrot sticks
  • Cucumber slices
  • Celery sticks
  • Bell pepper slices
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  4. Serve with an assortment of fresh veggie sticks like carrots, cucumbers, celery, and bell peppers.
  5. Meal Prep Tip: Hummus can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also makes a great snack throughout the week!

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3. Roasted Veggie & Quinoa Salad

For a lighter, fresh option to balance out the heavier game day fare, this roasted veggie and quinoa salad is a perfect choice. Full of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it can be made in advance and served cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup organic quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lemon vinaigrette (or dressing of choice)

Instructions for salad:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the veggies out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Roast the veggies in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
  4. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and roasted veggies. Stir in feta cheese (if using) and fresh parsley.
  6. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and toss everything together.
  7. Meal Prep Tip: This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s just as tasty cold or at room temperature.

Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

This simple, zesty lemon vinaigrette is the perfect dressing for roasted veggie salads or any fresh greens.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions for vinaigrette:

  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), and minced garlic.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Store in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.

This light and flavorful vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the roasted veggie quinoa salad or any fresh greens you have on hand!

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4. Guacamole with Homemade Tortilla Chips

Guacamole is always a fan favorite, and it’s a great option for a healthy dip. Made with creamy avocados and fresh ingredients, it’s rich in healthy fats and perfect for pairing with my favorite homemade tortilla chips or veggie sticks.

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe avocados, mashed
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small tomato, diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Homemade tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the mashed avocados, red onion, tomato, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir until well combined and taste for seasoning.
  3. Serve with siete chips, organic tortilla chips or veggie sticks for a crunchy, nutrient-packed snack.
  4. Meal Prep Tip: Guacamole can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time. To keep it fresh, press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole before refrigerating.

Ingredients for Homemade Tortilla Chips:

Instructions (Baked):

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the Tortillas: Stack the tortillas and slice them into 6 triangles each to create chip shapes.
  3. Coat with Oil: In a bowl, toss the tortilla triangles with olive oil, ensuring they’re lightly coated. Sprinkle with sea salt and any optional seasonings.
  4. Bake: Spread the tortilla triangles in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  5. Cool and Serve: Let the chips cool completely before serving with your favorite dips!

Instructions (Fried):

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cut the Tortillas: Slice tortillas into triangles as described above.
  3. Fry the Chips: Add a few tortilla triangles to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
  4. Drain and Season: Use a slotted spoon to transfer chips to a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with sea salt and any desired seasonings while still warm.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow chips to cool slightly before serving.

5. Baked Sweet Potato Rounds with Avocado and Spicy Drizzle

This healthy appetizer is packed with flavor, nutrients, and just the right amount of spice. These baked sweet potato rounds are topped with creamy avocado and a tangy, spicy drizzle, making them a perfect addition to your game day or party spread.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or plain dairy-free yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Bake: Arrange the rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
  3. Prepare the Spicy Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, hot sauce, and honey (if using). Adjust the spice level to your liking. Add a splash of water to thin it out, if needed, for drizzling.
  4. Assemble the Rounds: Once the sweet potato rounds are out of the oven, top each round with a small dollop of mashed avocado or a slice of fresh avocado.
  5. Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the spicy yogurt mixture over the top and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
  6. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature as a healthy, flavorful appetizer!

Why It’s Great:

  • Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, beta-carotene, and complex carbs.
  • Avocado adds healthy fats and creaminess.
  • The spicy yogurt drizzle adds a flavorful kick, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes.

This dish is easy to prep, crowd-pleasing, and packed with nutrients for guilt-free snacking!

Game Day, Made Healthier

With these make-ahead recipes, you can enjoy a fun and healthy game day spread without the guilt. These dishes are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for meal prepping. Whether you're enjoying hearty quinoa chili, creamy hummus with veggie sticks, or a fresh roasted veggie salad, you’ll be able to indulge in delicious and wholesome snacks all day long. 

Happy game day, and here’s to a healthier celebration! 🏈🍴

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