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Game Day, Guilt-Free: 10 Healthy Appetizers for your Game Day Spread

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Gourmandize

© Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock

Sweet Potato Tots

Forget frozen tater tots—these homemade sweet potato tots are naturally packed with flavor and have a delicate crisp on the outside while staying soft and fluffy inside. They’re not just a healthier alternative to fried appetizers; they also bring a touch of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with both savory and spicy dips. Best of all, they’re easy to prep ahead, making game day hosting a breeze!

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil.
  2. Cook the sweet potatoes by steaming or boiling them until just fork-tender (about 10 min.). Drain and let cool slightly.
  3. In a bowl, mash the sweet potatoes, leaving some small chunks for texture. Stir in panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil until well combined.
  4. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture, roll into small cylinders, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20-25 min., flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Pair with spicy ketchup, honey mustard, or a creamy yogurt dip and serve warm.

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Chef Tips and Tricks

VIDEO: Tasty Beef Tomato Pockets

Looking for an easy snack or party appetizer? These little beef pockets are a pinch!

Ingredients

Dough:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Water

 Filling:

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup tomato sauce

 Method

  1. Mix flour, sugar, salt, milk, and water in a pan, and mix until you form a dough.
  2. In a saucepan, heat a splash of olive oil and add the onion. Cook on medium-high until onion has softened.  
  3. Add the ground beef, and add the salt, water, and tomato sauce. When the meat has browned, remove from heat. 
  4. Dust a flat surface with flour, and roll out the dough into a flat sheet. 
  5. Use a ramekin or cup to cut out circles. 
  6. Add a dollop of beef-tomato mixture to the center of each circle. 
  7. Pinch the dough into a little pocket.
  8. Bake in the oven at 350° F for 15 minutes.
  9. Enjoy!