Can you believe Super Bowl Sunday is this weekend?

After a whole month of sticking to New Year’s resolutions with “good behavior” and healthy eating, it’s hard to know how to approach one of the naughtiest food days of the year. Especially if you’ve lost a few pounds and don’t want to pack it back on.

 
 

Traditionally, greasy buffalo wings and pizza are the standard American go-to foods for game day. But if you’re trying to stay on the straight and narrow, it can be tricky to satisfy your craving for junk food while still feeling confident about stepping on the scale Monday morning.

Let me help with the snack preparations!

 
 

Healthy snacks that feel like carbs and fatty foods, even if they aren’t, trick your body into thinking it’s getting the sinful stuff.

I like to roast cut vegetables, like broccoli and cauliflower, then drizzle them with cayenne pepper sauce to mimic buffalo wings. You’d be surprised at just how satisfying hot buffalo broccoli can be!

 
 

Homemade baked vegetable chips are also a great substitute for heavier fried potato chips and tortilla chips, especially if you serve them with salsa and a great “health-ified” creamy dip.

 
 

I personally love this Creamy Avocado Ranch Dip, because it’s ultra silky, offers huge ranch flavor, and is guilt-free.

Although it isn’t fat-free, the avocadoes provide “good fats” that actually help you stay full longer. Avocadoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals.

 
 

The ranch flavor in this Creamy Avocado Ranch Dip comes from fresh herbs and the tang of a little low-fat mayonnaise.

You can use any herbs you like but I find the best ranch taste is created by a combination of scallions, dill, parsley, and garlic.

Simple place ripe avocadoes in the bowl of a food processor, and add the mayo, herbs, and a little lemon juice. Then puree!

 
 

Creamy Avocado Ranch Dip is not only delicious with fresh cut vegetables and baked chips, it’s also a great spread to liven up sandwiches, or even stir into bland soups.

You can make this dip several days ahead. Just remember to cover the top with plastic and press down to remove all air bubbles. Any remaining air with cause the top to oxidize and turn brown.

 
 

Super Bowl doesn’t have to be a diet-buster this year. And it doesn’t have to be boring either. By planning ahead with some mindful food options, you can have your ranch and eat it too!