Are Potatoes Fattening or Healthy???

Researchers examined the nutrients per unit cost of 98 vegetables. While dark green vegetables had the highest nutrient density scores, after accounting for cost, starchy vegetables and beans provided better nutritional value for the money.

One medium-size potato with the peel, in particular, contains just 110 calories, more potassium than a banana, and almost half your daily vitamin C with no fat, sodium, or cholesterol. 

Hopefully more people will realize that starchy vegetables are not the enemy. However, they are still more caloric than dark green leafy vegetables, therefore portion sizes need to be adhered to. And how you cook these veggies are just as important: Smothering your potato with lots of butter and sour cream is not exactly what I would have in mind. Instead, try these healthier ideas for potatoes and beans:

Simply baked potatoes. There are so many low-fat toppings to choose from, you can get adventurous; salsa, mustard, horseradish and of course 0% Greek yogurt which is my favorite! 

Roasted potatoes. I personally like using new potatoes. Halve or quarter them with the skin on, spray a sheet pan with oil, sprinkle with a little pepper and rosemary, and put in 400-degree oven. Cooking time varies but should be no longer than 1 hour.  We love to add roasted teeny tiny potatoes from Trader Joe’s in some of out salads!