Yes, snacks for the big game can be healthy, figure-friendly and tasty too!

The big game is here, and for many bariatric foodies that means temptation island at the food table.

Don’t take a time-out from healthy eating by following these easy tips:

• If you’re the host, stock up on healthy foods for you and your guests. If you’ve been invited to watch the game elsewhere, offer to bring a healthy dish for all to enjoy.
• Use small bowls or plates. Small bowls and plates help to limit portion sizes and will help reduce your overall intake.
• Think of half-time as the only time to eat. Grazing=trouble!
• Liquid calories add up. Drink water with fresh fruit. If you choose to drink alcohol, choose a mixed drink with sugar-free mixer.

Try one of these snacks to help you stay on track:

• Assorted dips with fresh vegetables
• Baked tortilla chips with bean dip and salsa
• Thin-crust, whole-wheat pizza loaded with vegetables

In the mood for something spicy? Whip up this recipe for friends to enjoy:

Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Hot sauce, blue cheese and celery transform boring cauliflower into irresistible party food. This easy appetizer is a heart-healthy, diabetic-friendly and weight-loss surgery friendly party food that everyone will love. Cauliflower never tasted so good.

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• Black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 1 Tbsp trans fat free margarine, melted
• 1/4 cup reduced-fat blue cheese or ranch dressing
• 4 celery stalks, sliced into 3-inch sticks

Preparation

Preheat oven to 425°. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the oil, and pepper. On a baking sheet, arrange the florets in a single layer. Roast, turning halfway through cooking, for 45 minutes, or until lightly golden. Transfer the cauliflower back to the large bowl.

Add the hot sauce and margarine to the cauliflower and toss to coat. Serve immediately with blue cheese dressing for dipping and celery sticks on the side. Sit back and enjoy. YUM!

Yield: 4 servings

Did you know? Super Bowl Sunday is the favorite unofficial holiday of the year for hundreds of millions of Americans. It’s also a day for excessive eating and overindulgence, ranking 2nd only to Thanksgiving in terms of food consumption according to the American Institute of Food Distribution. Don’t give in! You’ve worked too hard! And remember, if you do overindulge, it’s only one day. Join us for support group the first Thursday of every month (except holidays) from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Clara McLean House in Pinehurst. Call (800) 213-3284 for more information or click here for more info.