Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Big Game Foods

The Valley of the Sun is under a global spotlight right now with the big game being played right here in Glendale. While hundreds of thousands will be attending the game or surrounding festivities, many other hundreds of thousands are planning to host watch parties. For the latter, Sphinx Date Co. offers some easy and delicious tips for planning a delicious super spread — that doesn’t rely on solely on chips, salsa and wings.

DIY Dip Stations — Rather than simply offering salsa, guacamole or buffalo dip, consider a DIY dip station where guests can make their own creative concoctions. For example, hummus is a great “blank canvas” to start with — then set out an array of “add ins” such as chopped marinated red pepper, olive tapenade, roasted garlic spread, buffalo hot sauce (or a favorite wing sauce from a local bar and grill), bleu cheese crumbles and more. Guests can then layer their hummus with their favorite flavors or create multiple flavors in which to dip freshly prepared crudité. Beyond just veggies, consider pretzel chips, parmesan crisps and toasted or grilled bread points for dipping. A dipping station also allows guests to create individualized containers — so the no double dipping rule need not apply!

Finger Foods, No Frying Necessary — Big game snacking should be no frills, easy, tasty and fun. But that doesn’t mean hosts or guests have to resort to greasy frozen foods or fried foods from a local delivery joint. Make finger foods fun and delicious with prosciutto wrapped asparagus that have been flash- boiled and cooled slightly and skewers loaded with cheddar and salami cubes or cherry tomatoes, basil and mini mozzarella balls or brightly colored fruit like grapes, watermelon, strawberries and cantaloupe (hint: a delicious cream cheese or yogurt dip pairs well with the latter). Other easy utensil free bites include homemade sandwich roll ups, puff pastry filled with any variety of yummy centers such as brie and pear cubes with pecans or pepperoni, cheese and marinara for a homemade approach to pizza rolls.

All in all, people coming together to watch the big game is all about camaraderie (and a little friendly competition when it comes to those loyal fans!), a relaxed atmosphere and lots of delicious and no-frills food and drink. Stock up on some great bites to help complete a super-spread at Sphinx Date Co. Palm and Pantry and don’t forget to pick up some local wines and beers too!