Weekends can unravel the best-laid plans for nutrition. It is the whisper of “Let’s go out, do something fun!” that can lead to food and beverage choices that leave you feeling heavy and derailed. So, how can you have a good time and still stay on track, starting Monday with a bang?

But here’s a thought: what if you made something fun at home?

A simple way is to make some fries at home. Fries signal a good time to me! As in a burger and fries with my brother after a workout? Fantastic! However, the truth is, restaurant fries are just not the best for my health, so I’m on a mission to perfect the home fry.

The first step was to lighten up on fearing the potato. It is not some contraband item! If you’ve spent time in the Paleo world or been swept up in carb restriction, you might think I’ve lost my mind. But a real potato, roasted in your oven with a bit of olive oil? I am going to live large here and assert that it can be eaten and enjoyed!

Last night, I made another test batch. After I popped them in the oven, I called to my son Joey, “You on the fries. I’m going to the yard for a workout. Flip them in 30 and turn the heat up to 400.” I came back an hour and fifteen later and found him eating a bowl. One side was crispier than the other.

“I didn’t know I had to turn them,” he said. No harm done. They were still delicious. It is pretty hard to screw up home fries, though some heed needs to be paid.

So, if you want a satisfying, feel-good meal this weekend, turn on the barbecue, grill up some meat or fish, make a big salad, and add a side of your own homemade fries. Fries. Real food can be simple and fun.

5 Votes for the Potato

Nutrient-Dense: Packed with potassium (more than a banana), vitamin C, B6, and antioxidants.

Fuel for Performance: A solid source of complex carbs that helps fuel your workouts and support recovery.

Satisfying: High in water and fiber, especially with the skin on, so they help you feel full.

Benefit Mood & Brain: The combination of B vitamins and complex carbs supports steady energy and serotonin levels.

Budget-Friendly Real Food: Low cost, versatile, and easy to batch cook! Re-heat well!

Home Fries Recipe (Batch Style)

What you'll need:

• ½ a sack of potatoes (russet or yellow work well)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (or enough to lightly coat—amount will vary depending on batch size)

• Seasoning salt or your favorite spice blend

• Parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Scrub and slice the potatoes into evenly sized fries. Do not peel!

2. Toss in a large bowl with oil and seasoning,just enough to coat. (Tip: I tried avocado spray, but a tablespoon of olive oil worked better.)

3. Lay flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet, with no overlapping.

4. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes. Flip or stir, then crank the heat to 400°F for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are crispy.

115 g of home fries recipe

Calories: 114 cal
Protein: 2.4 g
Carbohydrates: 20.8 g
Fat: 2.7 g

Notes: Blog pictures are reality images. I’m not gourmet or fancy.