Tailgating parties are traditionally held at football games and other sporting events. Fans will fill the parking lots near the stadium and celebrate the upcoming game with lots of food and beverages. While some tailgating parties are quite elaborate, the usual fare includes
hot dogs, hamburgers, sausages or bratwursts served on white rolls and accompanied by chips and dips. These foods are tasty, but usually high in calories and fat. Here are some ideas for healthy foods to be served at a tailgating party or any outdoor party:
Meats
Game meats are low in fat and are quite delicious. No need to cook elk,
venison or other games meats until they are brown and dry. Elk or venison cooked to a medium temperature is tender and delicious.
Seafood is usually low in fat and has omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for our health. I like to place a piece of white fish in aluminum foil with a bit of white wine, fresh herbs, garlic, lemon and almonds. Wrap up the foil into a packet and cook over low heat for a tasty dish.
Low fat, skinless chicken breasts can be grilled and served with a little of your favorite BBQ sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or served plain.
Vegetables
Chunks of
tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, peppers, squash and zucchini all taste great when grilled. Use skewers to make kabobs with your favorite vegetables. Young
potatoes with their skins, asparagus and sweet corn can also be roasted on a
grill. I like to use a metal pan place over low heat so the small or narrow vegetables don't fall through the gates.
Fruit
Bring fresh fruit like apples, pears, peaches, and
berries for a healthy dessert.
Water
If your tailgating party is going to include alcohol, be sure to provide plenty of
water and other non-alcoholic beverages.
