Deliciously Healthy Super Bowl Appetizers to Make You Forget About the Fried Stuff

Chicken wings drenched in butter and hot sauce and cheese-slathered nachos often show up front and center at Super Bowl parties, but they’re not the only option.

On Sunday, when the Seattle Seahawks face off against the Denver Broncos in the good ol’ state of New Jersey on what might just be a record cold evening, we’ll be warm and toasty inside, our televisions broadcasting the scoreboard and our bellies filling up on traditional game day fare. This year, however, in addition to the expected calorie-laden bites, we’ll be going a bit renegade in featuring at least a couple of heart-healthy, nutritious offerings.

Chili, a stick-to-your-ribs dish, need not be made with fatty pork shoulder or heavy ground beef. We’ve found that the traditional proteins with lean ground turkey makes for a pleasing substitute. Another great option is a white bean and artichoke dip. Ditch the fried tortilla chips and fattening cheese dip and opt for a more nuanced spread that’s good for you, too!

For ingredients and details on where to find the complete recipes, see below:

Turkey Chili
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb 99% lean ground turkey
1 medium onion, diced
1 red pepper, chopped
1 yellow pepper, chopped
2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
2 (15 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
2 (15oz) cans red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (16 oz) jar deli-sliced tamed jalapeno peppers, drained
1 cup frozen corn
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Josh and Maria of Two Peas and Their Pod call this dish a “protein powerhouse.” It’s an ideal recipe for entertaining because you can make it in a slow cooker while you hang out with your guests. Watch the spice level–taste as you mix everything together–so your kids can enjoy a bowl of the hearty winter stuff as well.

For Self.com’s couldn’t-be-easier-to-make white bean and artichoke dip, you’ll need the following:
Ingredients
1 clove garlic, peeled
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cans (15.5 oz each) white beans (drained and rinsed)
1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts (packed in water, drained)
At just 27 calories per tablespoon, this spread packs the flavor without the potential pot-nosh bulge.