Today is National French Fries Day! The simple concept of fried potatoes is much loved by many. Sadly, it has become an unhealthy tradition full of saturated fats, sodium and excess calories. Many are beginning to hail the French fry as the new cancer stick as cigarettes are known. Fast food companies fearing losing customers concerned with the health of their families are now supplying substitutes in kids’ meals such as apples or oranges.
Ah, yes, today is National French Fries Day so we should put aside our anger toward an unhealthy favorite and dive right into a fast food French fries, right? Not so fast. If you seek the flavor of a French fry but not the fat, calories and additives, here is a delightful recipe for you! It is easy to make and it will not destroy your diet or health.
Pritikin Longevity Center; Spa’s Roasted Potato Wedges (Serves 8)
Ingredients:
1 pound russet potatoes, washed and thinly sliced into wedges
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon granulated onion
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Soak potato wedges in vinegar and water for about 30 minutes.
3. On a nonstick baking sheet, spread out wedges. Sprinkle with onion and garlic.
4. Bake in oven for about 20 minutes, turning once. Remove from oven when wedges are crispy on both sides.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
45 calories, 0g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 1g protein, 1g fiber, 0mg sodium.
Forty-five calories and zero fat a serving make this a no-brainer to make on National French Fries Day. Should you choose to go the fast and easy route of the drive thru be careful. A small McDonald’s fry contains 11 grams of fat, 230 calories, 160mg of sodium, not to mention additives. Since we have all finally accepted that McDonald’s is not healthy food, maybe you are thinking Wendy’s with their natural cut French fries may be the better option. Be careful, looks and descriptions are deceitful. A small Wendy’s fry contains 18 grams of fat, 440 calories, 430mg of sodium and 58 carbs! Keep in mind that is a small fry and 18 grams of fat is almost as much fat as a child should have in a day. Fun day or not your health is worth slicing up some potatoes. You can add in your own fun seasoning to make something special and healthy for your family tonight.