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10 Ways to Reimagine Your Favorite Idaho Potato Dishes by Emily Weeks, RDN, LD

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Potatoes are a staple in American cuisine, from the classic mashed potatoes to loaded baked potatoes. But have you ever thought of reimagining your favorite Idaho potato dishes? With a little creativity and experimentation, here are 10 ways you can turn your classic potato dishes into something new and exciting.

10 Ways to Reimagine Your Favorite Idaho Potato Dishes
  1. Use an Air Fryer
One of the most popular kitchen appliances today is the air fryer. It's a healthier way to cook your favorite fried foods, and it can also be used to cook potatoes. Simply slice your Idaho potatoes into wedges or fries (leaving the skin on), spray them with oil, and toss them in the air fryer. In just a few minutes, you'll have crispy and tasty potatoes without too much added oil.
 
  1. Blend in Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a great way to incorporate more vegetables to your diet, and it can also be used to bulk up your mashed potatoes and reduce the amount of carbohydrate in your side dish. Simply steam or roast the cauliflower until it's tender, then blend it with your cooked potatoes. The result is a creamy and flavorful mashed potato dish with added nutrients. You can also buy frozen riced cauliflower that can steam in the microwave, making it even easier to stir into a dish of potatoes.
 
  1. Maximize Spices
Adding the right spices can take your dish to the next level. Try using  different low sodium spice blends or sauces, such as Cajun, Italian, or Mexican. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to give your potatoes a burst of flavor. If you like a little spice in your life, try adding some heat to your potato dishes by sprinkling on some cayenne pepper or chili powder or adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
 
  1. Make a Potato Salad
    Potato salad is a classic summer dish, but you can make it even more exciting by using different flavors and textures. Try adding chopped celery and or roasted vegetables like peppers and onions. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as light ranch or vinaigrette.
 
  1. Make Hasselback Potatoes
Hasselback potatoes are a popular Swedish dish. You slice a potato thinly, without cutting all the way through, then top it with garlic, oil, and fresh herbs before baking. Idaho potatoes are perfect for this dish because of their starchy texture, which makes them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Try adding your own toppings like reduced fat cheese and fresh herbs for a delicious twist on this classic dish.
 
  1. Make Potato Croquettes
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy your mashed potatoes, try making potato croquettes. Simply form your cold leftover mashed potatoes into balls, dip them in egg and breadcrumbs, and air fry or roast them until they're golden brown. This added twist makes a great appetizer or side dish.
 
  1. Potato Skins
Potato skins are a classic appetizer that can be customized with a variety of toppings. Simply bake Idaho potatoes until tender, scoop out the flesh, and fill with reduced fat cheese, light sour cream, and any other light toppings you prefer. After adding your toppings, bake again until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
 
  1. Stuff Your Potatoes
    Baked potatoes are a comfort food favorite, but they can also be a blank canvas for different toppings. Try stuffing your potatoes with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or zucchini and reduced fat cheese, and lean protein like ground turkey or beans. The possibilities are endless!
 
  1. Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch dish, potato hash is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Dice potatoes and cook them until soft, then toss them in a skillet with onions, bell peppers, and any other veggies you choose. Top it with an egg and a couple slices of avocado.
 
  1. Potato Fritters
Crispy potato vegetable fritters, also known as potato latkes, can be a flavorful appetizer, snack, side dish, or small meal. They can be loaded with shredded non-starchy vegetables to increase their nutrient density, low sodium spices to enhance flavor, and air fried or roasted with small amounts of oil. Serve them with your favorite light dipping sauce or alongside your favorite breakfast foods.
 
Infographic of 5 best ways to prepare diabetes-friendly potatoesPotatoes are one of the most delicious ingredients you can have in your kitchen that are easy to fit into a meal. From the classic mashed potatoes to creative twists like potato croquettes and Hasselback potatoes, the options are endless. Potatoes can be a nutritious and healthy source of carbohydrate when serving size and preparation recommendations are followed.  So why not get creative and try something new? You might just find a new favorite dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection.

Want to learn the 5 best ways to prepare diabetes-friendly Idaho Potatos? Download this free infographic today: Best Ways to Prepare Diabetes-Friendly Idaho Potatoes

Descárgate hoy mismo esta infografía gratuita: Las 5 mejores formas de preparar patatas Idaho® aptas para diabéticos  

This article is brought to you by the Idaho Potato Commission, a proud sponsor of the Diabetes Food Hub.

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