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This article is brought to you by the Idaho Potato Commission, a proud sponsor of the American Diabetes Association.
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.
1. Using Cooked and Cooled Potatoes
Cooking potatoes by boiling or baking them and then cooling them in the fridge changes the starch in the potato. Your body digests this type of starch more slowly, which can help keep blood glucose (blood sugar) steadier and support gut health. This benefit remains even if you reheat the potatoes later.
For a simple meal idea, chill boiled potatoes overnight, then dice and warm them in a pan with bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olive oil, garlic, and herbs and top with a poached egg and a couple slices of avocado to make a veggie‑packed breakfast hash.
2. Use an Air Fryer
One of the most popular kitchen appliances today is the air fryer. It offers a lower fat 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 fat.
3. Blend in Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a great way to add more vegetables into your diet, and it can also be used to bulk up your mashed potatoes and reduce the amount of carbs 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 or roasted vegetables like peppers and onions. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as light ranch or vinaigrette.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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 a lean protein like reduced fat cheese or ground turkey. The possibilities are endless!
10. 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 making this dish rich in nutrients and by using low-sodium spices to enhance flavor. Air fry or roast them with small amounts of oil. Serve them with your favorite light dipping sauce or alongside your favorite breakfast foods.
Learn More
Potatoes 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 Potatoes? Download this free infographic today: Best Ways to Prepare Diabetes-Friendly Idaho Potatoes.
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