Deep fried French fries are delicious no doubt, but definitely not part of a clean eating diet. If you are looking for a healthy alternative then try these super easy Parmesan French fries!
Potatoes are sometimes looked down on in the health-food world due to the amount of starch found in them. However, they are a great addition to a healthy eating plan. There are a million varieties of potatoes to choose from including russet, baby red, Yukon gold, sweet potatoes, etc. These delicious Parmesan French Fries are made using russet potatoes.
One great thing about russet potatoes is that they are available year-round and they last for quite a while. You can store them in a dry, dark place and (if stored properly) can last up to 2 months! Make sure to avoid storing uncooked potatoes in the refrigerator.
So what’s the skinny on potatoes?!
Potatoes have no fat, no sodium and no cholesterol, plus there are only 110 calories in a medium potato (roughly 5oz with skin on).
Did you also know that potatoes have more potassium than a banana? Bananas get all the love when it comes to potassium, but potatoes do in fact contain more!
So don’t be afraid of enjoying a potato every once in a while – starches and all! Try them baked, roasted, pan fried or even grilled.
The recipe I’m showcasing today however is a really easy Parmesan French Fry recipe! First of all, baked French fries are obviously more healthy than the deep-fried varieties. Secondly, parmesan cheese packs a lot of flavor in this small amount! A little goes a long way here.
I recommend leaving the skin on the potatoes, because the skin is where a lot of the nutrients are found. However, the recipe will be the exact same if you peel the potatoes prior to slicing.
Another recommendation is to eat these right away. I’m all about meal prep, but these French fries are much better eaten right after coming out the oven. You can store leftovers, but just we aware that they won’t be quite as good as the fresh ones!
- 2 large russet potatoes* (1.5-2lbs)
- 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Wash and dry potatoes, then cut them lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips.
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Brush each fry with oil, then sprinkle with salt.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Turn oven to broil and broil French fries for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
- *Potatoes can be peeled prior to cutting.
