The Healthy Option
Contrary to the opinion of some, the fact is that potatoes are a very healthy component of balanced diet and can be prepared in a myriad of ways that are fun to prepare, delicious to eat, and healthy for you!
On their own, potatoes naturally have no fat, no cholesterol, no sodium, and only 100 calories per serving! Potatoes go with almost any main dish as an appealing side, and can also serve as the main dish themselves in a number of recipes. Is there any vegetable as versatile as the potato? Whether it be for breakfast, lunch or dinner…there is always a place for potatoes!
Some options for including potatoes in a healthy, balanced diet:
- When preparing baked potatoes, consider topping such as olive oil, diced vegetables, herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, salso, or low-fat sour cream, as it’s the toppings that contribute the calories.
- Add potatoes to creamed/pureed soups and sauces in the place of butter and cream to reduce fat while maintaining rich textures and flavours.
- Because potatoes are hearty and filling, a smaller serving size goes a long way!
- Replace butter in mashed potatoes with olive oil, broth, or full-flavoured, fat-free ingredients like wasabi or chilies!
- Mash potatoes in their own skins, since the skin houses a bounty of beneficial nutrients and dietary fiber!
- Craving French fries? Prepare oven-baked “skinny-fries” with cooking spray and a sprinkling of coarse salt. A guilt-free way to keep French fries on any menu!