Shannon Center Weekly Nutrition Tip-Healthy Appetizers for Holiday Parties
Planning on bringing an app to your next holiday party? Try one of these six quick but healthy recipes!
Bruschetta
In a bowl combine, 1 1/2 cups soft sun-dried tomatoes or freshly diced tomatoes, 6 basil leaves chopped, 3 tsp minced garlic, 1/8 cup olive oil and toss, sprinkle sea salt and cracked pepper. Spoon onto whole grain crackers (Triscuits, Kashi, WW baguettes, etc.).
Looking for a fantastic tasty hummus! In a pinch? I recommend Cedar's Point Hummus, as it has zero additives and only 40 calories a serving; pair it with sliced peppers, cherry tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, etc.
Full of protein – check out this shrimp platter twist.
This looks wonderful, haven't tried it, but plan to this season!
5 Spice Pistachio Nuts
Ingredients
6 tablespoons orange juice
6 tablespoons Chinese five-spice powder
4 teaspoons kosher salt
6 cups unsalted pistachios
Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 250°F.
Whisk orange juice, five-spice powder and salt in a large bowl. Add pistachios; toss
to coat. Divide between 2 large rimmed baking sheets; spread in an even layer.
Bake, stirring every 15 minutes, until dry, about 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
Store in an airtight container.
Popcorn with a twist!
Pop 1/2 cup kernels in air popper, or for quick microwave options, place ¼ cup kernels in a brown paper bag, fold down twice and place on popcorn setting. Repeat as many times as you need for desired amount of popcorn.
Combine 4 tsp white truffle oil, 2 tbsp dried parsley, or basil, and ¼ cup parmesan
cheese. Toss and coat popcorn! Other oils to use: coconut oil, olive or canola oil.
Other spice variations:
Cajun seasonings, garlic, pepper, Mrs. Dash, you name it!
Enjoy!
~Kelly Divine Rickert, registered dietician