CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Forget the peanuts and crackerjacks -- the Charlotte Knights opened the new season with a new lineup of healthy choices.

• More Menu Hopping locations.
• BB&T Ballpark Fan Guide

“Most people with the perception of ball food when they come is nachos, hamburgers, and hotdogs,” Charlotte Knights executive chef Kyle McCleary said. “But we do so much more than that.”

The Knights are bringing upscale ballpark food to match the Uptown setting. This year, introducing the Healthy Fresh Cart. “In the past we haven't had any items in the ballpark where you can go for healthy [choices],” McCleary said.

Choices include a Watermelon Salad and Thai Noodle Salad. Even the Pork Carnitas is a low calorie option for fans. “The idea is to serve the best quality food that we can at the fastest pace possible," he said. 

And the favorites are sticking around; they’re just upgraded. The fan-favorite Homer Citrus Dog is back: chopped brisket, atomic horseradish cream, green onions and slaw topping a classic hotdog.

“I want [fans] to feel excited. And I want them to feel appreciated,” McCleary said. “And this is something that I feel the city is going to be very, very excited about.”

Creating a taste and experience, that’s a home run.