Fry obsession

It’s no secret to anyone that knows me that one of my favorite foods, ever, is french fries.  I’m pretty particular about my fries:  I don’t really like the thin cut ones, they have to be super salty, they can’t be even the slightest bit burnt, and they definitely need lots of ketchup to dip.

While I really, really like the traditional variety, I try to recreate them in a healthier way with all sorts of vegetables.

• zucchini chips
• acorn squash fries
• butternut squash fries
• potato circles

There are practically endless ways to make “fries” out of vegetables, although my definition of fries is pretty loose.  I tend to like the potato circles seasoned very simply (just s+p) but I season the other vegetables with all kinds of spices.

And they’re easy to make:  simply slice into whatever shapes meet your fancy, season, and throw into a 350* oven for about 30 minutes (60 minutes for potato circles).

So, easy to make, delicious, and super low-cal (if using vegetables other than potatoes)?  What’s not to like?

The husband bought his first ever mandolin the other day and has been itching to make something with them.  I was planning on making zucchini chips, butternut fries, and potato circles and having a ketchup-dipping extravaganza, but he went crazy with the potatoes and there wasn’t any leftover room in the oven.  In our next house, I definitely want a double oven set up.  (You know, for the 2 times per year this conundrum could ever come about)

So instead, I had made what used to be a staple:  frittata.

This guy had:

• egg whites
• cottage cheese (Daisy)
• grilled red, green, and yellow bell pepper strips
• spinach
• cheddar
• mexican spices

And then the main event:

We made them as regular potato circles, traditional fry shape, and waffle fries (which were too greasy even though we barely used any oil).

After the day I’ve had, I am ready to kick back with some vino and chocolate.   I thought this morning was going too well to be true and whatdoyouknow, something blew up this afternoon.  But it’s all good because now I have wine, chocolate, this week’s episode of Nip/Tuck and…

Tomorrow is FRIDAY!