
Here are a few tips to think about when attending a party or any other social event:
- You are advised not to go to the grocery hungry. It's the same theory going to a party hungry, as it may lead you to make choices that are less healthy and a heavier portion to fill the void. Consider making a small snack before you go to the party. A piece of fruit or nuts is a good choice.
- Make good food and portion choices. A good way to ensure you will have good choices, plan ahead by asking the host their menu plan. Should you be taking a dish or appetizer with you, it’s easy to make something you enjoy and a healthy choice for others.
- Keep away from grazing at a party; avoid overeating or consuming too many high-fat foods. Try to focus on the fruit and veggie trays and other healthy choices that are available. Practice good portion control and pace yourself.
- Should you consume carbonated or adult beverages, ensure you drink equal parts water to stay well hydrated.
- Make an effort to move around the party and avoid sitting throughout the entire event. While standing, try squats and stretches to keep your blood flowing and energy level elevated.
Regardless of your game plan this weekend, take care of your food intake while you enjoy the social engagement. Finally, we’d like to share two tasty and healthy appetizer recipes.
Mini Caprese Bites
1 pt. grape tomatoes, halved
10 to 14 fresh small mozzarella cheese balls, cut into thirds*
32 (4-inch) wooden skewers**
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
6 thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Thread 1 tomato half, 1 piece of cheese, and another tomato half onto each skewer. Place skewers in a shallow serving dish.
2. Whisk together oil and next 3 ingredients. Drizzle oil mixture over skewers; sprinkle with basil and salt and pepper to taste.
Slow-Cooker Chicken Enchilada Dip
2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic
1 fresh jalapeño pepper, stemmed
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
¾ teaspoon salt
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
1 15-ounce can black beans, drained
1 cup corn, frozen - thawed
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons sliced scallions
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Combine tomatoes, onion, garlic, jalapeno, chili powder, cumin and salt in a blender. Puree until smooth. Pour the sauce into a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Nestle chicken into the sauce. Cover and cook on High for 3 hours or on Low for 6 hours. Remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Stir the chicken back into the sauce in the slow cooker. Add cream cheese, beans, corn and cheddar. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on High until the cheese is melted and the sauce is hot, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve the dip topped with scallions and cilantro. Enjoy with corn or pita chips.For easy cleanup, try a slow-cooker liner. These heat-resistant, disposable liners fit neatly inside the insert and help prevent food from sticking to the bottom and sides of your slow cooker.
We hope you take away good information and enjoy the recipes. Have a great weekend! Experience the Meliora difference; experience our pursuit of better. Visit us on LinkedIn