If you love SEC football, you know the amazing turnaround season of the Auburn University Tigers. As a true orange and blue fan, I have had the pleasure of witnessing first hand this unbelievable team receive complete redemption and win, win, win! Thanks to yet another miracle, the Auburn Tigers are now the SEC champions, on their way to the Bowl College Selection (BCS) National Championship game in Pasadena.
Auburn Tiger fans love to tailgate and enjoy game day grub. Unfortunately, many foods favored during a traditional tailgate will not help you fit in your lucky game day jeans. “Trim down” your tailgating line-up by limiting high calorie and high fat foods, and adding in more nutritious food choices. For example, rather than serving fried chicken tenders (which have more calories from fat) try these baked Cheesy Chicken Crunchers.
Also, remember to choose dishes easily prepared at home and then assemble them moments before the tailgate begins such as this delicious Touchdown Taco Salad. Keep fresh veggies and low-fat yogurt dip on hand for game day snacking to boost calcium, vitamins, minerals and fiber.
MVP Parfait is as sweet as those final points that put the game away. This yummy pudding parfait is easy to transport and since it’s made with low-fat milk you know you’ll be getting a unique package of nine key vitamins and minerals that help build stronger bones and teeth. On cold game days, pack this cinnamon almond hot chocolate in a thermos to help keep you warm and ready to cheer.
No matter what happens in Pasadena, Auburn fans will tailgate and continue to discuss the miraculous run of this 2013 team. Yes – it’s great to be an Auburn Tiger!
Mary Martin Nordness, MA, RD, LD, CHES
