Tailgating 101: How to have a healthier tailgate

Fall isn't just about pumpkins and baked apples and changing leaf colors (California you are exempt).  It is also about football, and more importantly, tailgating!

Coming from a very sports oriented family, football games are just a part of our fall routine.  I have an uncle who is a head coach for a college team, so the chances are pretty high that we will attend at least ONE football game sometime between September and December.  Naturally, the pre-game ritual involves some sort of tailgate, whether it is putting out a spread of food on the back of someone's truck, or planting ourselves in a parking lot for the afternoon with a portable BBQ. 

But tailgating doesn't have to be the over-indulgent affair that leaves you with heartburn and regret as you sit in the stands watching your favorite team play.  If you incorporate some healthy items into your tailgate, you'll not only feel better, but the game will be a much more enjoyable experience.

1.  Plan Ahead - Coordinate with your group who is bringing what so you aren't left to scrounge around in the stadium for a halftime snack.  The food is overpriced and really not that great anyway.

2. Incorporate Fruits and Vegetables - Even if you are in the mood for a burger and chips or a loaded hot dog, be sure to incorporate some fresh fruits and veggies with your meal.  Add some carrot and celery sticks on the side of your burger, or nosh on an apple or some grapes before you even get to the main tailgate fare.  You won't eat as much and can still enjoy your burger or hot dog or pizza without overdoing it.

3. Bring Foods YOU want to Eat - If the tailgate menu doesn't appeal to you, bring the foods you want to eat!  Sandwiches, salads, crackers, nuts and pretzels are all great options if you aren't feeling like eating the Chili con Carne that's simmering in the pot next to you.

4. Drink in Moderation - We've all been there.  And we all remember the hangovers the next day.  Drink a glass of water in between each beverage of choice, and try to limit your intake to 2-3 drinks maximum.  Trust me, you'll feel better in the morning and you will have saved tons of calories.

5.  Don't be afraid to indulge...a little - You can't expect yourself to go to a tailgate and not enjoy some of your favorite treats right?  Enjoy yourself!  A little indulgence never hurt anyone.

The Tastes of Fall

If you had asked me a couple of years ago what my favorite season is, I would've said summer without any hesitation.  But now I think fall is starting to grow on me, and dare I say it, replace summer for #1 in my book.

Growing up and living in Southern California means that our "seasons" are not of the traditional sense, but we do see the temperatures drop and the leaves change color (well not the palm trees).

Another great thing about fall is fall food - fall means the return of seasonal beverages and treats, harvest vegetables, warm soups and stews, and of course, pumpkin.  Lots and lots of pumpkin.

Here are just some of my foodie fall favorites:

1. Spiced Apple Cider

I never liked apple juice as a kid, but there's something about spiced apple cider on a cool day that warms you right up.  Starbucks Caramel Apple Cider is a great fall treat, but I also like making my own and adding in my own spices to my liking.

2. Butternut Squash Ravioli

Butternut Squash ravioli is popping up more and more on restaurant menus, but I especially love this treat in the fall.  When it's done right, it's not too sweet and not overloaded with ingredients.  My current favorite is the Butternut Squash Ravioli at Pomodoro's in Irvine, which has butternut squash, sage, brown butter, and a small crumble of amaretti crackers.  You can choose if you want a large or smaller portion which is also nice.  I like to share this dish with a friend or otherwise I find myself being tempted to lick the plate clean.

Pomodoro's Butternut Squash Ravioli mid-feast

3. Pumpkin Butter

I first met Trader Joe's Pumpkin Butter last fall and it's been a love affair ever since.  There's not much more to say except that Trader Joe's ran out of their Pumpkin Butter last season, so I suggest you go there.  Now.


4. Boudin's Soup in a Bread Bowl

I love soup.  I'll eat it throughout the year, but I especially like soup in the fall.  And in a bread bowl.  Boudin Bakery is really the only place I've seen that does it right.  The insides are carved out of a sourdough boule, filled with piping hot soup.  Plus, they give you the little top bit from the boule so you can dip it in your soup while enjoying.  It's a true carbolicious comfort food treat.  Clam Chowder or Chili in a bread bowl is highly recommended.

5. Pumpkin.  All things pumpkin.

Pumpkin bread, pumpkin oatmeal, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin soup.  If it's got pumpkin in it, chances are it's going in my belly.  Officially obsessed.

Pumpkin Muffins?  Yes Please!