Photo Gallery | Party like a pro with these Super Bowl recipes
By Amanda Heisey - email
(RNN) - With Super Bowl XLVI right around the corner, football fans are gearing up to participate in the second largest food consumption day of the year for Americans - only after Thanksgiving, of course - according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Even football enthusiasts with no loyalty to the New York Giants or New England Patriots will host Super Bowl parties. If you're planning a party in honor of America's favorite contact sport, here are some tips to keep in mind.
Robin Joss, from the blog Big Red Kitchen, said heavy finger foods are a must.
"Guests like 'manly' foods at Super Bowl parties, even the ladies," Joss said via email. "Think chili, spicy dips, cheese steaks, sub sandwiches, wings, or regional favorite foods that represent your team's area."
Joss said holding some of your dishes back until just before the halftime show is a good idea. This will give your guests a reason to mingle and stretch.
During the halftime show, which will feature Madonna this year, Joss recommends providing some mood lighting for the performance.
"Turn off all your lights and provide glow sticks (maybe in your team's colors) for your guests to wave or dance around - kids love this!" Joss said.
Speaking of team colors, Joss said you can decorate on a budget by just using team colors for napkins.
Cupcakes are a nice touch and Joss suggests offering coffee with a lot of extras like sugar, flavored syrups and creams.
For an extra touch, send guests off with one for the road.
"Offer coffee to go for the long ride home by using paper cups with lids, found at your grocer," Joss said.
Recipes:
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