Skinny Garlic Parmesan Fries

Skinny Garlic Parmesan Fries are a healthier alternative to a fast-food favorite.  They're baked in a mere tablespoon of olive oil, then dusted with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.  You'll love the crispy texture and the robust flavor -- but you won't miss the fat or calories! 

 



Today's post is a bit of a departure from my usual lineup of decadent desserts.  But this recipe is so good that I felt compelled to share it, even though it doesn't quite fit the theme of this blog.

I made these Skinny Garlic Parmesan Fries as part of a quick weeknight dinner.  I didn't feel like pulling out the mandoline slicer, so I cut the potatoes by hand.  But honestly, as long as you aren't making enough fries to feed the Duggar family, this step isn't that time consuming.  While cutting the potatoes, I infused my olive oil with a couple of minced garlic cloves.  The potatoes are tossed in the garlicky olive oil and then baked at 450 degrees for about 30-35 minutes.  While they're still piping hot, top them with your minced garlic and a light layer of Parmesan.

As soon as they came out of the oven, I immediately devoured my portion of the recipe.  My husband was at a late Crossfit class and, no, I did not wait for him.  In fact, I was really, really tempted to eat his portion of fries, too.  But can you imagine how that conversation would have gone?  "Hi!  Welcome home!  I bet you're starving after working out.  Ooops, sorry.  I ate all your fries while you were busy exercising....do you still love me?"

Don't worry, I didn't eat his fries.

(click here for printable recipe)

Skinny Garlic Parmesan Fries
(based on this recipe from Ellie Krieger)

2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 Tablespoon olive oil
16 ounces potatoes
1/4 tsp salt
2 tsp grated parmesan cheese


1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.  Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray

2. In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat garlic and olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

3. Meanwhile, peel potatoes and cut into thin slices no wider than 1/4".  Place potatoes in bowl.  Pour olive oil over potatoes, using a spoon to hold back the minced garlic (you don't want to add it to the potatoes just yet).  Sprinkle with salt and toss to coat evenly.

4. Spread potatoes in single layer on cookie sheet (this is important, or else your potatoes won't become crispy.)  Bake for 30-35 minutes.  Midway through baking, use a spatula to flip potatoes so they cook on both sides.

5. Remove from oven.  Immediately sprinkle with reserved garlic and Parmesan cheese.

Yield: 2 servings

(click here for printable recipe)