It’s time to stop trying to make “pigs in a gluten-free blanket” work. The real key to healthy party foods is to start with simple, good-for-you ingredients.
Whether you’re having people over for a birthday, baby shower, or the big game, these recipes for flavorful finger foods are all just as nutritious as they are easy to make.
From lettuce cups to prosciutto-wrapped peppers, many of them are so creative and pretty, they’ll impress your friends (and make for a great Insta shot), too.
RELATED: How to Create the Perfect Party Platter
Bookmark these healthy party foods for your next get-together, now.
10 Healthy Party Foods
Broccoli Rabe Quesadilla
Who doesn’t love a cheesy quesadilla? This one layers nutrient-dense broccoli rabe (fiber! vitamins!) into the protein-packed cheese and black beans—and holds it all together with a tortilla made with whole grains instead of white flour.
Spiced Nuts
Happy snacking is easy to make happen with this quick way to punch up almonds, cashews, or peanuts, all of which deliver protein and healthy fats.
Kohlrabi Fries
What’s a party without fries? Instead of white potatoes, kohlrabi is a root vegetable that’s fiber-rich and filled with potassium. Just toss the slivers in heart-healthy olive oil, add nutritious spices, and bake.
Grilled Prosciutto Wrapped Jalapeños
Meat lovers won’t even notice there are nutritious veggies wrapped in these cheesy, spicy, bite-sized morsels.
Sweet Potato Nachos
Nachos are pretty much a guaranteed crowd-pleaser when it comes to party food. Sweet potato nachos are the same, except much healthier.
Baba Ghanhoush Hummus
Give your go-to hummus recipe an upgrade by adding eggplant (more veggies = always a good idea). Serve it with raw veggies, healthy crackers, or…
Baked Zucchini Chips
Leave the Lay’s on the shelf. Instead, put out bowls of these healthy zucchini chips for guests to grab a crispy, salty bite or to use for dipping.
Healthy Chicken Fingers
Depending on the kind of party, you can flavor them for kids (um, plain?) or grown-ups (parsley, mint, oregano!).
Easy Lettuce Cups
These cute cups are filled with lean protein and fiber to keep guests from overeating from the party spread. Tabouleh contains antioxidant-rich veggies and herbs like onions, tomatoes, and parsley, and oh-so-amazing avocados for healthy fats.
Beet Dip and Crudite
A creative alternative to hummus that’s also rich in protein and flavor is just made for crudite. It’s also the most photogenic party dish you’ll ever make, thanks to a deep purple hue.