15 healthy (ish) game day appetizers that you can indulge in without feeling too bad about it. These are what I like to call “functional” as they offer a little more than just your average app and they’re delicious to munch on while watching your favorite sport.

While we all love a good splurge, these recipes are not only delicious but what I like to call “healthy (ish)” as well. Some of these options are higher in protein and fiber – a delicious way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
If a recipe calls for yogurt or cottage cheese, sub with a higher protein plant-based yogurt like Kite Hill to make them dairy-free.
Healthy Appetizers or Snack Ideas
15 appetizers to help you find that balance of healthy and indulgent so sticking to your health goals doesn’t have to be tricky. Plus, most of these are crowd-pleasers!
Layered Pesto Appetizer Dip (Two Healthy Kitchens)

A quick and easy dip idea that can be thrown together in less than 10 minutes! It starts with a creamy cannellini bean and cream cheese layer, then it’s topped with pesto and Mediterranean vegetables like roasted red peppers and artichokes. Crumble some feta on top and you have a nutrient-dense, fiber-packed app!
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip (The Oregon Dietitian)

Seriously, who doesn’t love a good buffalo chicken dip? It is by far the most popular appetizer when I go to parties – especially on game days. By using whole ingredients, this dip can be healthy (ish) for sure. This recipe uses a combination of cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
It’s super high in protein and absolutely delicious! Pair with some whole wheat crackers, like Triscuits, to increase your fiber intake as well!
Cottage Cheese Taco Dip

This is essentially a 7-layer dip made with whipped cottage cheese and flavored with taco seasoning. No one will ever know the difference (I know from experience). Then, add your favorite toppings – like black beans, tomatoes, olives, or whatever your heart desires.
It’s a protein and fiber-packed appetizer that is always a crowd-pleaser! Easily customizable as well.
Football Charcuterie Board (Haute & Healthy Living)

A super fun and festive football-themed charcuterie board! If you want to impress your friends and family, spend some time creating this snack board full of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, soft pretzels, and summer sausage. The homemade cheeseball is covered in toasted pecans so it looks like a football!
Cottage Cheese Queso (Simple and Fraiche)

A creamy, high protein queso dip that’s lighter than a traditional queso but still feels indulgent. It’s spicy with the addition of jalapeno. However, you can easily customize the flavor profile however you want!
(Cowboy) Texas Caviar (The Healthy Epicurean)

There is something about cowboy caviar that just always hits the spot. It’s full of fresh vegetables, sweet corn, beans, and herbs then dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s delicious with tortilla chips – or spread it on nachos!
Loaded Vegetarian Nachos (Fannetastic Food)

If I could pick my personal favorite appetizer it would be nachos! These vegetarian nachos made with black beans are a delicious way to increase overall fiber intake on game day. Plus, they’re topped with lots of fresh vegetables and drizzled with an avocado lime crema!
Stuffed Mini Sweet Peppers (PCOS Nutritionist Alyssa)

Just THREE ingredients and you have this salty, crunchy, healthy snack. Mini sweet peppers are combined with Greek yogurt and Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. Each serving is packed with 10 grams of protein, anti-oxidants, and even probiotics to improve the composition of your gut.
Creamy, Crunchy Dill Pickle Dip (Style and Grace)

I just had to include this one because it sounds so good! Crunchy pickles are combined with a cream cheese dip. Serve with fresh veggies and whole wheat crackers or chips for a satisfying, tangy dip idea.
Easy Pumpkin Dip (Small Town Woman)

A dip that takes just 5 minutes to prep with only 6 ingredients and all the fall flavors! It’s made with cream cheese, pumpkin puree, powdered sugar and spices. Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene which is an immune-boosting ingredient – ideal to consume during cold and flu season!
Pair this dip with apple slices, graham crackers or salty pretzel sticks!
Roasted Garlic Butternut Hummus (Get Inspired Everyday!)

A fall and winter inspired hummus with roasted garlic and butternut squash! The subtle sweetness of the roasted butternut squash pairs well with the savory flavors of this dip. Get creative and add some tasty toppings like candied pumpkin seeds and pomegranate.
Bacon Jalapeno Poppers (Living Chirpy)

Spicy jalapenos are filled with a combination of smoky bacon, cheddar, and cream cheese, along with some simple seasonings. You could even sub the cream cheese with Greek yogurt (or do half and half) to make this recipe more nutritious. Either way, it’s a game day fave!
Vegan Artichoke Spinach Dip (Chef Ani)

When you make your own dip, you can control the ingredients which typically makes it much healthier than anything store-bought. The base is made with soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, onion and garlic powder – then sauteed onions are mixed in with chunks of artichokes. No one will ever know this Spinach and Artichoke Dip is vegan!
Air Fryer Zucchini (Kitchen at Hoskins)

Crispy, cheesy zucchini bites made with just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of an air fryer! They’re healthier than a French fry but with that same crunchy texture without all the frying. If you’re going to bring these to a party, make sure they have an air fryer to reheat for just 3-5 minutes.
Keto Bang Bang Cauliflower (Joy Filled Eats)

Crisp cauliflower is coated in almond flour and parmesan then fried to perfection. There is also an air fryer version as well! The best part is that it is served with a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. A lower carb, gluten-free friendly option that can also count as a vegetable serving for the day!