by Ian Lee, HealthCastle.com
This year's Super Bowl happens in New Orleans. Most Americans may not travel all the way to the Big Easy to watch the game, but anyone can capture the essence of the region by serving Cajun and Creole-themed foods.
Classic Louisiana foods tend to be heavy on fat, calories, and sodium, but some simple variations can help cut down on post-game regret.
Dietitian Gloria Tsang examined five of the "best-known New Orleans food items" to create simple suggestions for lightening up the classic recipes.
"Louisiana's rich food culture gives Super Bowl fans lots of options for regionally appropriate Super Bowl party foods," Tsang said in a press release. "We just tweaked them so that they work as healthier snacks while maintaining the classic flavors."
Recipe tweaks for healthier New Orleans–style party foods:
- Po'boy: Keep the mayo serving small and pan-sear shrimp (rather than deep fry) dipped in egg white and tossed in bread crumbs. Serve cut into quarters or eighths.
- Gumbo: Stick with seafood versions, and serve over brown rice to get the benefits of whole grains.
- Jambalaya: Try chicken breast instead of sausage and pile in lots of veggies (especially the New Orleans favorites onions, bell peppers, and celery).
- Muffuletta sandwich: Try serving this sandwich's strongest flavor component – olive salad – on thin rounds of broiled or toasted baguette, bruschetta style.
- Red beans and rice: Use turkey sausage instead of the traditional meats and serve over brown rice.
