25 Healthy Game-Day Snacks

TASTE OF HOME

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

The sweet and smoky flavor of this hummus adds plenty of interest while remaining a high-fiber, protein-rich dip. It’s the perfect dip for crackers, veggies, tortilla chips and pretzels, making it ideal for any game-day spread.

“My son taught me how to make hummus, which is a tasty and healthy alternative to calorie-filled dips. Fresh roasted red bell peppers make it special.” —Recipe Contributor Nancy Watson-Pistole, Shawnee, Kansas

JIM WIELAND FOR TASTE OF HOME

Black Bean and Corn Guacamole

Adding black beans and corn to a simple guac is a great way to add nutrition and flavor to one of the most popular game-day dips. Avocado is high in satisfying monounsaturated fats, and the beans add more fiber and protein. Meanwhile, corn gives this dish a fun Tex-Mex flair.

“Head to any Mexican restaurant and we guarantee you’ll see this combo on the menu. The bright colors and contrasting textures make black beans and corn fun additions to guacamole. For extra flavor, grill the corn first.”—Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Abbey Littlejohn for Taste Recipes

Air-Fryer Plantains

Plantains are typically breaded and fried, which may taste delicious but doesn’t create the healthiest game-day snack. Using the air fryer instead, this recipe drastically cuts down on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

“Having grown up in Puerto Rico, I’ve had so much amazing Caribbean food, but tostones have always been a favorite of mine. Traditionally they are deep fried, but this version of air-fryer plantains gives me the same fabulous taste without some of the calories.” —Recipe Contributor Leah Martin, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania

Mini Zucchini Pizzas Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Zucchini Pizza Bites

Finger foods take the cake for game-day celebrations, and these zucchini pizza bites are no exception. With a crispy zucchini “crust,” each bite has all the pizza toppings and flavor you love with fewer carbs, calories and sodium.

“This simple snack is the perfect, low-carb way to satisfy your pizza cravings.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Fresh Shrimp and Avocado Nachos

Instead of traditional nachos, level up your game-day snack board with these shrimp and avocado nachos. Shrimp is a lean protein that’s low in fat and rich in vitamins, minerals and the antioxidant astaxanthin. Avocado adds a satisfying creamy texture, while tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro and onions give the nachos a fresh finish.

“I’m a fan of shrimp, and my family loves nachos. When I combined those favorites and added fresh avocado, the result was a cool yet satisfying snack.” —Recipe Contributor Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Tex-Mex Popcorn Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Tex-Mex Popcorn

Popcorn is the ultimate snack for anything centered around the TV, especially when it’s a big game. Popcorn is full of whole grains, and while this version might not be dripping with butter, it is drenched in some serious smoky, spicy flavor.

“Spicy Southwest seasoning makes this snackin’-good popcorn ideal for any fiesta.” —Recipe Contributor Katie Rose, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Taste Recipes

Air-Fryer Potato Chips

You can’t go wrong with potato chips! If you want them to be crispier, crunchier and healthier than chips from a bag, this recipe is just what you need. It only calls for a handful of ingredients and creates perfectly crunchy homemade potato chips with fewer calories, less fat and a whole lot more flavor.

“For Christmas one year, I received an air fryer. Potato chips are simple to make in it and are an essential, crispy side for lunch.” —Recipe Contributor Melissa Obernesser, Oriskany, New York

Crisp Cucumber Salsa Recipe photo by Kristina Vanni for Taste Recipes

Crisp Cucumber Salsa

Unique, fresh, crisp and full-flavored, this cucumber salsa is a fun take on a traditional pico de gallo. Diced cucumber, jalapeno, onion and tomatoes are combined with herbs and reduced-fat sour cream. For less fat and more protein, you can swap in nonfat Greek yogurt for the sour cream.

“Here’s a fantastic way to use cucumbers. You’ll love the creamy and crunchy texture and super fresh flavors.” —Recipe Contributor Charlene Skjerven, Hoolpe, North Dakota

Chicken Satay Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Chicken Satay

Chicken satay could easily be a healthy weeknight dinner, but we also love serving the skewers as a hearty, nutrient-rich game-day snack. Lean chicken breast is marinated in antioxidant-rich spices and served with an incredibly satisfying peanut sauce.

“This golden chicken satay recipe is marinated and grilled, then served with a zesty Thai-style peanut butter sauce.” —Recipe ContributorSue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Air-Fryer Popcorn Shrimp

Store-bought frozen popcorn shrimp typically contain preservatives, and restaurant-style versions are usually deep-fried in oil. Both are far from a healthy snack! Our recipe creates healthy finger food by coating the protein-rich shrimp in seasoned panko and air-frying them to crispy perfection.

“These quick air-fryer shrimp are so good you won’t even miss the fat! Eat them alone with cocktail sauce or put them on a salad or sandwich.” —Recipe Contributor Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Taste Recipes

Roasted Chickpeas

Skip the chips and set out bowls of these spiced, roasted chickpeas instead. Chickpeas are loaded with fiber and protein to keep everyone energized until the last play. They’re seasoned with chili powder, cumin and lime for an irresistibly smoky, spicy flavor and baked in the oven to give each bite an audible and satisfying crunch.

“Looking for a lighter snack that’s still a crowd pleaser? You’ve found it! These zesty, crunchy chickpeas will have everyone happily munching.” —Recipe Contributor Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina

Avocado Salsa Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Avocado Salsa

If salsa is too spicy for your taste, serve up a dish of this cool, refreshing avocado salsa. Avocados are loaded with healthy, unsaturated fats that help you feel full and satisfied. Adding corn, olives and sweet red peppers adds fresh flavor and crunchy texture to each bite.

“I was planning a party and thought it might be fun to try a different kind of avocado salsa. This recipe was an absolute success. Scoop it up with chips, spoon it over chicken or steak, or eat it on its own!” —Recipe Contributor Susan Vandermeer, Ogden, Utah

ELLIE CROWLEY FOR TASTE OF HOME

Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potatoes, a little oil and a handful of spices are all you need to make these air-fried sweet potato fries. While sweet potatoes and white potatoes have similar calories and carbohydrates, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that supports a healthy immune system.

“I can never get enough of these air-fryer sweet potato fries! Even though my grocery store sells them in the frozen foods section, I still love to pull sweet potatoes out of my garden and slice them up fresh!” —Recipe Contributor Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Shrimp Kabobs

These kabobs are packed with veggies and protein-rich shrimp, creating a game-day snack that looks as good as it tastes. These kabobs get their flavor from store-bought dressing, but they can easily be made with homemade Italian dressing. That would give you more control over the type of oil and ingredients used.

“Marinating the shrimp in Italian dressing adds wonderful flavor to these colorful shrimp kabobs” —Recipe Contributor Sharon Aweau, Kapolei, Hawaii

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

I always ask for an extra scoop of Chipotle’s corn salsa on my burrito bowls, so this copycat recipe is one of my favorites. The ingredient list is short (only six items!), and each serving has only 26 calories. Whether you serve it with chips or spoon it over nachos and quesadillas, it’s a great way to add a serving of veggies to your snack spread without adding extra calories or fat.

“Building your own burrito, taco or burrito bowl at home? Don’t forget the best topping—the corn salsa, of course! This copycat version encapsulates the restaurant’s famous fresh, tangy and sweet salsa with just a handful of ingredients.” —Recipe Contributor Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Watermelon Cups

If you’re as big a fan of sweet and savory combos as I am, you’ll want to add these watermelon cups to your snack spread. This easy, bite-sized appetizer is a game-day favorite because it blends sweet, juicy watermelon with crunchy cucumber, tangy onion and fresh pops of mint, cilantro and lime.

“This lovely appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

LAUREN HABERMEHL FOR TASTE OF HOME

Air-Fryer Zucchini Chips

If you’re looking to serve a lower-carb chip that you can feel good about snacking on, set out a bowl of these zucchini chips at halftime. They are perfectly seasoned and have a crispy, crunchy exterior thanks to the air fryer. For a fun twist, swap the seasonings to mimic your favorite chips. They’d taste great with barbecue seasoning or a packet of ranch dressing mix.

“Crispy, crunchy, yummy and healthy? These zucchini chips check all the boxes! Simply cut zucchinis into rounds, toss them in some light oil and seasoning, air-fryer them and voila—you have a delicious snack.” —Recipe Contributor Anvita Bhatnagar Mistry, Chantilly, Virginia

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Chocolate Hummus

Hummus is well-known for being a healthy savory dip, but did you know it can be turned into a sweet treat? Combining cocoa powder, honey and almond milk with garbanzo beans creates a high-fiber, satisfying, sweet dip that’s perfect for fruit, graham crackers or pretzels.

“This chocolate hummus is a sweet twist on the traditional recipe. Plus, it’s so easy to make with just a handful of healthy ingredients. I like to serve it with berries and pretzels for a quick snack.” —Recipe Contributor Catherine Ward, Mequon, Wisconsin

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Pork Kabobs

A filling snack that can be eaten with one hand? Sounds perfect for game day! These pork kabobs combine yogurt-marinated pork tenderloin with onion, peppers and cherry tomatoes for a low-carb, veggie- and protein-loaded snack that’s easy to assemble (and even easier to eat).

“This recipe was originally for lamb, but I adapted it to pork and adjusted the spices. It’s always requested when the grill comes out for the season.” —Recipe Contributor Bobbie Jo Miller, Fallon, Nevada

Caprese Salad Kabobs Recipe photo by Eric Kleinberg for Taste Recipes

Caprese Skewers

Want everyone to eat more veggies? Pop them on a stick and add cheese! Better yet, drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light snack that’s full of flavor.

“Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help.” —Recipe Contributor Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Triple Tomato Flatbread

Tomatoes are full-flavored and antioxidant powerhouses, so we triple down with tomatoes in this easy flatbread recipe. Refrigerated pizza crust is a great shortcut, making this game-day snack simple to make. It will be devoured almost as quickly!

“Tomatoes are the reason I have a vegetable garden, and I developed this recipe as a way to show off my garden’s plum, sun-dried and cherry tomatoes. The dish is easy and will impress.” —Recipe Contributor Rachel Kimbrow, Portland, Oregon

Spinach Pizza Quesadillas Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Spinach Pizza Quesadillas

This four-ingredient game-day snack is perfect for last-minute hosting—or anytime when you’re unsure what to serve but want to avoid takeout. Whole wheat tortillas replace carb-heavy pizza dough, and each bite is packed with savory sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese and nutrient-rich spinach.

“This simple four-ingredient dinner is special to me because my daughter and I created it together. You can make variations with other veggies you might have at home. It’s a smart way to get kids to eat healthier.” —Recipe Contributor Tanna Mancini, Gulfport, Florida

Italian Sausage-Stuffed Zucchini Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Italian Sausage-Stuffed Zucchini

This low-carb recipe for zucchini boats is filling and satisfying. Using turkey sausage and part-skim mozzarella cheese lowers the snack’s fat and calorie content without sacrificing flavor.

“I’ve always had to be creative when getting my family to eat vegetables, so I decided to make stuffed zucchini using the pizza flavors that everyone loves. It worked! We like to include sausage for a main dish but it could be a meatless side too.” —Recipe Contributor Donna Marie Ryan, Topsfield, Massachusetts

Taste Recipes

Beet Hummus

Beets contain antioxidants and other superfood nutrients, but their texture isn’t for everyone. Blending cooked beets with garbanzo beans and tahini gives this hummus a beautiful color and a deep, rich, slightly sweet flavor. This vibrant hummus is perfect for dipping veggies, pretzels, chips or whole grain crackers.

“This tasty beetroot hummus is the prettiest pink snack I’ve ever seen. The healthy recipe is handy to make in large batches and keep in the fridge for lunches and snacks throughout the week.” —Recipe Contributor Elizabeth Worndl, Toronto, Ontario

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Air-Fryer Chickpea Fritters with Sweet-Spicy Sauce

If you find out that someone else is bringing hummus to the party and you still want to make a snack with fiber-rich chickpeas, use them to make these crispy air-fried chickpea fritters. The air fryer cuts down on the oil needed to make a fritter that’s crispy on the outside and soft and pillowy on the inside. Don’t forget the yogurt sauce, which adds a boost of probiotics and protein.

“Chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dishes in Pakistan, where I grew up. I try to incorporate the tastes of my home country when cooking for my American-born daughters. With these air-fryer fritters, I have combined the light spice of Pakistani foods with the love of deep-fried finger foods that many Americans, including my daughters, enjoy.” —Recipe Contributor Shahrin Hasan, York, Pennsylvania

Healthy Game-Day Snacks FAQ

What are the best diet-friendly snacks for game day?

Whether you’re watching your calories or carbs, you can’t go wrong with a tray of fresh veggies and a healthy dip to go along with it. Try serving some of the lower-calorie dips on this list, like roasted red pepper hummus or corn salsa. They’ll add fiber and a serving of veggies to your snack tray, helping you feel more full and satisfied.

How can you make healthy football snacks taste good?

Making healthy football snacks taste good is all about choosing the right cooking technique and ingredients. Herbs and spices add flavor to any recipe without the need for extra salt, oil or butter. Cooking techniques like air-frying and baking minimize the need for excess oil while still creating the satisfying, crunchy texture we crave from game-day snacks.

What are the healthiest chip and dip options?

Baked tortilla chips and homemade air-fryer potato chips are a healthy way to enjoy chips. Dips that use fresh, whole-food ingredients can add a ton of flavor without excess calories, sodium or fat. If you’re looking for more healthy dip options, try copycat Chipotle pico de gallo, mango avocado salsa or vegan queso.