Tackle your Tailgate

Football season is officially here and so are the tailgates. Each week, fans will gather to cheer on their favorite teams and share some game day grub. Unfortunately, with all the dips, drinks and desserts out there, it’s easy to make some nutritional errors.

Here are a few game-winning strategies to avoid nutritional fumbles and tackle hunger at your next tailgate:

Start your First String

Here in the south, pimento cheese is a crowd pleaser and sure to score you some points. Serve this recipe slider style for an easy grab and go crowd pleaser. Simply spread between whole wheat rolls or use a cookie cutter to create crustless bread rounds. Thanks to the protein found in cheese, these sandwiches will certainly satisfy hungry fans.

Make Substitutions

Up the nutrients and cut the fat out of your favorite dips by substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayonnaise. With nine essential vitamins and minerals—including protein, potassium and calcium—yogurt packs a powerful nutrient punch. Try this Roasted Red Pepper Feta Dip that combines Greek yogurt with vitamin rich red peppers and fiber filled cannellini beans. This delicious combination scores a nutrient touchdown.

Finish Strong

To win the game of tailgating you have to play to the end and finish strong. That means not forgetting dessert, but be sure to stick to proper portions. Even decadent desserts can be enjoyed guilt-free when downsized. Score big late in the game with these Chocolate Mint Cheesecake Bites. They are full of flavor and just the right size.

Click here for more tailgating tips and recipe ideas.

Laura Marbury, MS, RD,LD