Snack like a champ: Game day bites that score big

Football season is in full swing—and that means gatherings, cheering, and plenty of delicious snacks. But game-day food doesn’t have to be greasy or heavy. AdventHealth Avista’s Clinical Dietitian Intern, Laura Kitchen, is bringing the flavor and the fuel to your football festivities!

She’s sharing some of her favorite recipes designed to keep you and your loved ones energized, satisfied, and ready to cheer on your team—all without the post-snack slump. From high-protein dips to refreshing mocktails, these bites are sure to score big with your crowd.

High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip:

Football spreads aren’t complete without a buffalo chicken dip and this version is packed with protein while keeping fat content low. Pair it with veggies or whole grain crackers to get in your fiber!

Ingredients:

• 2-3 cups shredded chicken (can use rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken breasts)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• ½ cup hot sauce (I recommend Frank’s and you can add more depending on preference)
• 1/2-2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional topping: green onions or chives

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375*F
2. Mix shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, hot sauce, and half the cheese into a bowl
3. Transfer mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling
5. Top with green onions or chives

6. Serve with carrots, celery and/or whole grain crackers

Spinach White Bean Dip:

If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, this is a great choice that packs in the protein and fiber for game day.

Ingredients:

• 1 15-oz can of white beans, rinsed and drained (I like cannellini)
• 2 heaping cups of fresh spinach
• 1-2 large garlic cloves
• 2 TBSP of olive oil
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ¼ cup of nutritional yeast
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash spinach thoroughly and rinse beans
2. Blend beans, spinach, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast in a food processer
3. Taste and adjust seasoning
4. Can be served chilled or warm

5. Serve with whole grain crackers, pita chips, carrots and/or cucumber slices

Apple Crisp Mocktail:

This festive drink is a fun alternative to soda and will keep you hydrated throughout the game.

Ingredients (per serving):

• ½ cup apple cider or if you want extra carbonation, I like Olipop crisp apple
• ½ cup sparking water (plain or a flavor of your choosing)
• ¼ of a lemon
• Optional garnishes: apple slices, cinnamon stick, lemon slices

Directions:

1. Fill a large glass with ice
2. Pour apple cider and sparkling water into glass
3. Squeeze lemon juice on top
4. Stir and top with garnish