5 healthy appetizers to enjoy during March Madness

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Lauren Mennen, Philly.com

Posted: Saturday, March 23, 2013, 6:00 AM

It’s that time of year again. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or not, it’s hard to escape all the buzz that surrounds March Madness.

In honor of the famed college basketball month, we scoped out some healthy appetizer ideas you can enjoy with some friends while cheering on your favorite college teams.

You don’t always have to reach for the nachos, the quesadillas, or other greasy foods commonly associated with watching sports games. There are alternatives that are better for you and won’t leave you constantly grabbing for more! Healthier, more filling ingredients such as protein will leave you satisfied unlike that feeling you get while eating chips and nachos that are high in fat.

Without realizing it, you can easily consume a couple hundred calories quickly while munching on some chips and salsa. Instead, try one of these recipes. All under 260 calories, they will give you more food for less carbs, fat and calories!

So whether you’re having some friends over or just want to try out some new, tasty appetizers, get started with this weekly guide!

Monday: Mini zucchini pizzas

Per serving: 75 calories; 5g fat, 3g carbohydrates, 5g protein, 1g fiber

View the recipe from the Eat Yourself Skinny blog here >

Tuesday: Asian chicken and beef lettuce wraps

In just 10 minutes, you can prepare these tasty lettuce wraps that are packed with protein. This is also a healthy alternative to many lettuce wraps that are high in calories from the excess oil and fatty beef.

Per serving: 259 calories; 5g fat, 24g carbohydrates, 28g protein, 3g fiber

View the recipe from fitness.com here >

From the Health Desk

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Wednesday: Spinach and brie topped artichoke hearts

Using some of spring’s best veggies, you can have this low-carb and gluten free appetizer ready in just 15 minutes! This recipe is another great bite size snack, and a healthy alternative to spinach and artichoke dip with chips.

Per serving: 20 calories; 1g fat, 1g carbohydrates, 1g protein, 1g fiber

View the recipe from eatingwell.com here >

Thursday: Lemon garlic marinated shrimp

This is another quick recipe you can make in only 10 minutes! This low-carb snack provides flavorful shrimp with some lemon and garlic zest.

Per serving: 73 calories; 3g fat, 1g carbohydrates, 10g protein, 0g fiber

View the recipe at eatingwell.com here >

Friday: Smoked salmon canapés

Here’s a great party treat that’s looks just as good as it tastes! In 30 minutes, you can have this elegant appetizer that’s rich in protein and omega-3s.

Per serving: 84 calories; 3g fat, 9g carbohydrates, 5g protein, 1g fiber

View the recipe from Reader’s Digest here >

Lauren Mennen Philly.com

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