Fall is a season bursting with color – school colors, that is!  With football, soccer and field hockey well underway, classy co-ed’s everywhere are showing their college pride by wearing their colors and cheering their classmates on at games.

This year, the athletes don’t have to be the only ones at the stadium in good shape.  Bring these five foods to your next tailgate.  They’ll give you energy to cheer your team on throughout the day and are loaded with nutritional benefits.  Not to mention, they’re delicious, too.

Salsa

Nachos loaded with melted cheese are a tailgating staple.  Save on calories and try baked tortilla chips with a tomato salsa.  The spiciness of the salsa will force you to pause while eating – this will help you realize when you’re full. Salsa is also less fattening and more refreshing than gooey cheese dip.

Vegetable Platter

Before heading off to the game, put together a spread of your favorite vegetables, which can include anything from baby carrots and celery to broccoli and peppers.  Looking for a healthy option to dip them in?  Try hummus! This smooth and creamy dip is protein-rich and boasts a unique taste, courtesy of chickpeas.

Seafood

Seafood is a unique and interesting food to bring to the tailgate table, offering a change of pace from the traditional cheeseburgers and hot dogs you see on the menu.  Grill up some shrimp or tilapia for a dish filled with omega-3 fatty acids.  These acids stimulate your brain function and increase your ability to concentrate, making fish the perfect supplement to your college lifestyle.

Eggs

Don’t feel like a sinner when you try this delicious deviled egg recipe from Health Magazine.  Using yogurt instead of mayo, this recipe cuts out unnecessary calories and has a zesty flavor, along with extra protein in every bite.

Fall Yogurt

End your meal by incorporating the tastes of the autumn season into a healthy dessert. Whip up some spiced maple yogurt, with this recipe courtesy of Fitness Magazine. 

Mix 6 ounces of plain yogurt with 1-tablespoon maple syrup and a dash of cinnamon.

What are your favorite foods for a tailgate?

 Casey Galasso is junior at Marist College. Follow her on Twitter at @omggcasey. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds, be sure to follow College Lifestyles on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.