Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious root vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and resistant starch. A healthful diet that includes roasted potatoes may help blood sugar control, and improve digestive health. Potatoes are a source of “good carbs” to fuel our brains and bodies. They are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. They are naturally fat-free, gluten-free, sodium-free, and affordable. Potatoes are only 110 calories for 5.3 ounces. Potatoes are an ancient food domesticated by the indigenous people of the Andes mountains (South America), over 7000 years ago. There are more than 200 varieties sold throughout the United States.
- RECIPE: Serves 4
- 1.5 pounds red “new” potatoes, cut into quarters
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until potatoes are evenly coated. Place potatoes in a large cast iron skillet and place in oven. Allow to roast for one hour. Raise the temperature to 425 degrees F and cook another 15 minutes. (If potatoes are browning too quickly, tent the skillet with foil.) To change texture and reduce size for ease of eating, these potato quarters can be cut into smaller pieces or smashed with a fork. Serve with fish or poultry and an extra large serving of steamed greens.
For patients with Alzheimer’s disease:
- Allow plenty of time to eat
- Eat together
- Try finger foods or bite-sized pieces that are easy to pick up
- Don’t worry about neatness
- Smash foods if chewing or swallowing becomes difficult
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings: 4 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 182 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 7.3g | 9% |
Saturated Fat 1.1g | 5% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 144mg | |
Total Carbohydrate 27.8g | 10% |
Dietary Fiber 3.1g | 11% |
Total Sugars 1.7g | |
Protein 3.3g | |
Vitamin D 0mcg | 0% |
Calcium 23mg | 2% |
Iron 1mg | 7% |
Potassium 781mg | 17% |