Beat the Treats

Parties can trigger mindless munching, whether due to the cold, the aura of celebration, or family-related holiday stress. Every "grab" or handful does add up, but there are smart ways to target a sumptuous spread. Compare the paths of these two partygoers, and see the sidebar for my five-point plan.

PAUL Paul downs an egg nog with rum (440 calories) and moves onto Sam Adams Old Fezziwig Ale (213). As he catches up with college friend by the buffet, he noshes 3 bacon-wrapped dates (354), 2 spinach pie triangles (160). Hostess has cookies—still warm! 1 gingerbread man down (320). Another beer (213). "You've got to try these cute little cupcakes!" 1 miniature cupcake (180). Out of beer? What kind of party is this? Back to egg nog (440). Tries one cube of each cheese. 6 cubes (600). Slice of marble cake—Paul's favorite—wishes he'd seen it sooner (350). One for the road: a nip of whisky (70). Ooh! The party favor is a chocolate santa (120).
TOTAL: 3,460 calories, equivalent to an entire pecan pie.

PATTY Patty kicks things off with a glass of our Tropical Holiday Punch (105 calories, recipe below). Next, she noshes three gourmet Greek salad skewers (250, recipe below) and a small plate of shrimp dipped in cocktail sauce (35). That spinach dip looks delicious. 2 spoonfuls, on a plate (140), with celery and baby carrots to dip (40). "Sure, I'll try your lemon squares, Helen. They're so cute and tiny!" (Gives half to her husband, so 60). Finally, a glass of Gruner Veltliner to savor (120).
TOTAL: 750 calories, equivalent to two slices of pizza and half a pitcher of Budweiser.