CBS San Diego: Healthier Tailgate

Fall means football, friends, and tailgating! I’m on CBS San Diego with have tips to upgrade your game day spread with better-for-you options that are packed with flavor.

A Seasonal Twist on Chicken Wings

Start with a fun fall spin on a game day classic — chicken wings! I’m using Eat Happy Kitchen Pumpkin Marinara, a unique way to add delicious, savory pumpkin flavor to your fall pantry. This bright and flavorful marinara is made with premium California tomatoes, is keto-friendly, and contains zero added sugar.

Besides wings, you can also use it in pasta dishes, hearty stews, or even as a base for a cozy curry. It’s a versatile pantry staple that brings autumn warmth to any recipe.

Build a Better Finger-Food Platter

Every great tailgate needs a finger-food platter, and Eat Happy Kitchen’s High-Protein Crunchy Cheese Bites are a must. These savory snacks come in three delicious flavors and are made with just two ingredients — cheese and their signature spice blends. They’re gluten-free, sugar-free, and perfect for both kids and adults.

Next, round out your platter with dippable veggies and high-quality protein. I love Applegate products because they’re made with recognizable ingredients and contain no fillers, artificial ingredients, or preservatives — so you know exactly what’s in every bite.

More than 75% of their products are free from the top nine allergens, and when you’re crunched for time, their lightly breaded chicken makes for a quick, satisfying meal with every crispy bite.

And for the perfect dip, turn to True Made Foods. These American-made, veteran-owned condiments are sweetened with vegetables and contain no added sugars. Their BBQ sauce, crafted by legendary pitmaster Ed Mitchell, brings authentic flavor without compromise.

Round Out Your Spread with Pasta Salad

Finally, complete your tailgate table with a fresh, flavorful pasta salad. A high-quality olive oil can elevate any dressing, and Damya is my go-to. This female-founded, award-winning brand produces biodynamically farmed olive oil crafted by Berber women farmers using ancestral growing techniques.

Each batch is cold-pressed the same day as harvest, resulting in an oil rich in both flavor and antioxidants. You’ll soon be able to find Damya locally at Whole Foods Markets — a must-have for every home cook’s pantry.