Food and drinks are the centerpieces of annual Oktoberfest events, where a full belly is a sign of a good day of festivity. However, while celebrating this year, you can still make healthy choices when it comes to Oktoberfest desserts, drinks and dinners.
Of course, we know you want to have fun and enjoy all the yummy treats these events have to offer. But, as you know, when it comes to a healthy lifestyle, moderation is key. So, fortunately, you can do both!
What to eat at your local Oktoberfest celebration
Traditional Oktoberfest foods like sausages, cheese spaetzle and giant pretzels are loaded with calories. However, you may be surprised to discover that there are healthier options when it comes to traditional Oktoberfest foods.
Here are some of the healthier menu items available at the annual festival:
- Fruit salad
- Goulash soup
- Red cabbage
- Rotisserie chicken
- Salmon roll
- Sauerkraut
- White radishes
Again, this doesn’t mean you have to skip the bratwurst and pretzel with cheese spread. You can still enjoy your favorite Oktoberfest snacks in moderation.
A good way of going about this is to share your entrées with someone. That way you’ll be able to sample the delicacies without going overboard and eating it all yourself.
Healthy recipes for an at-home Oktoberfest party
If you’re planning to host your own Bavarian-themed party, it’s helpful to have some healthy and easy Oktoberfest food ideas on hand. The following recipes offer plenty of authentic flavors and important nutrients for your body.
- Potato pancakes: This simple dish made from potatoes, onion and egg gets a healthy makeover when you switch the oil with cooking spray and trade the frying pan for a baking dish. You’ll get the flavor and crunchy texture without the extra calories.
- Red cabbage: You’ll find plenty of variations on this classic side dish. Shred a head of red cabbage. Add it to a pot where you’ve sauteed apples and onions in butter. Let the mixture simmer with apple cider vinegar, sugar and spices until the cabbage softens.
- Sauerkraut: Packed with probiotics, vitamins and minerals, sauerkraut is easy to make. Thinly slice a head of green cabbage. Toss it with salt until you see a brine in the bowl. Then store the cabbage in a sealed jar until it reaches the flavor you want.
You can modify most traditional Bavarian recipes to lower the calories. Use less sugar than the recipe calls for. Try fat substitutes, like applesauce or yogurt in baked dishes, or cook foods in an air fryer that uses less oil. And, whenever possible, add vegetables to the dish.
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