Indulge guilt-free with these Heart-Healthy Spicy Fries, a baked alternative to traditional deep-fried French fries that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Packed with bold seasonings like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, these crispy potato wedges boast a delightful kick without the added fats. The recipe calls for Russet potatoes with their nutrient-rich skins intact, and a quick soak in cold water ensures the perfect crunch. Tossed in heart-healthy olive oil and baked to golden perfection, this dish is ideal for a crowd-pleasing side or a tasty snack. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Ready in under an hour, these oven-baked spicy fries are a nutritious, flavorful treat for any occasion!
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, leaving the skin on for added fiber and nutrients.
Cut the potatoes into evenly-sized wedges or thin fries, about 1/4 inch thick for crispier fries.
Place the potato slices in a large bowl, then cover them with cold water. Let them soak for 10 minutes to remove excess starch for crispier fries.
Drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Return the potatoes to the dry bowl and drizzle with the olive oil. Toss the potatoes to ensure they are evenly coated.
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt (if using).
Sprinkle the spice mixture over the potatoes and toss again until the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the pieces do not overlap to promote even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the tray, flip the fries with a spatula, and return them to the oven to bake for another 15 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the fries from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using), and serve immediately.
Calories |
943 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.6 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.1 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 653 mg | 28% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 158.8 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.1 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.4 g | ||
| Protein | 21.3 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 132 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 4022 mg | 86% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.