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The Versatile Potato: A Look at the Many Uses of One of America’s Favorite Vegetables

May 3, 2022 by Monica Nelson Leave a Comment

When it comes to versatile vegetables, the potato is king. This humble tuber can be used in a myriad of dishes, both savory and sweet. It has been a staple of the American diet for centuries, and there’s good reason for that. Potatoes are affordable, nutritious, and delicious. In this post, we will look at the many ways to use potatoes in your cooking. Stay tuned because you’ll be looking at potatoes in a whole new light by the end of this post!

Photo by Immo Wegmann on Unsplash

Potatoes can be Used in Savory Dishes or Sweet Dishes

For example, you can use potatoes to make a hearty stew or a delicious dessert, like potato pie. Potatoes are also great for breakfast, whether you’re making hash browns or a simple omelet. There’s truly no limit to what you can do with this versatile vegetable. Also, potatoes are a great way to add bulk to a dish without adding a lot of calories. This makes them perfect for those watching their weight or trying to eat healthier in general.


Potatoes are a Great Source of Nutrients

Potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a perfect addition to any healthy diet. In fact, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one medium potato contains only 110 calories and is fat-free. So if you’re looking for a nutritious vegetable to add to your diet, look no further than the potato!


Potatoes are Affordable

Potatoes are one of the most affordable vegetables on the market, making them an excellent option for budget-minded cooks. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, potatoes are a cost-effective way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. So if you’re looking to save money on groceries, be sure to stock up on potatoes!


Potatoes Connects Cultures

The potato is believed to have originated in South America, and it was brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. Since then, the potato has become a staple of diets around the world. In fact, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), potatoes are now grown in more than 160 countries. This widespread cultivation is a testament to the versatility and popularity of this humble vegetable. It is also the main star in many traditional dishes, such as Irish stew, English fish and chips, and Italian gnocchi. Or even a more modern dish, like Hasselback potatoes or easy Mexican potatoes. No matter where you go in the world, you’re sure to find a dish that features this versatile vegetable.


Potatoes are Delicious

Last but not least, potatoes are simply delicious. They can be cooked in so many different ways, and they pair well with a variety of other foods. Whether you’re making a simple potato salad or a more complex dish like shepherd’s pie, potatoes are sure to please your taste buds. So if you’re looking for a vegetable that is both nutritious and delicious, look no further than the potato!

Photo by Mahmoud Fawzy on Unsplash


As you can see, there are many reasons to love potatoes. So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some potatoes and experiment with all the different ways to prepare them. You might just be surprised at how versatile this humble vegetable really is!


This is a collaborative post. 


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Let’s fire up the grill and here is a healthy ye Let’s fire up the grill and here is a healthy yet super tasty and fun treat for the 4th!
You can also use this same coconut cream again and just serve with your favorite fresh berries all season long! Enjoy. 

GRILLED PINEAPPLE WITH COCONUT CREAM
🍍🍍🍍

INGREDIENTS

For the Marinade:
• 1 tbs coconut oil (can also use olive)
• 1 tsp  ground cinnamon
• 2 1/2 tbs dark honey
• 1 vanilla bean (can be optional – but I love it here)
• 1 tbs of fresh lime juice
• 1 firm yet ripe pineapple, can buy already cut
For Garnish (Optional):
• 1 tbs dark rum
• 1 tbs grated lime zest from the lime
My Coconut Cream:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)

DIRECTIONS

Marinade:
1. In a large bowl – combine the oil, cinnamon, honey, vanilla bean (if using), and lime juice; whisk to well to blend together. Set aside.
2. Place each pineapple half cut-side down and cut it lengthwise into four long wedges; slice away the core. NOTE: Or you can slice it in rings too, which I do often. 
3. Place the pineapple in the bowl with the marinade and stir to coat the pineapple. Heat up the grill.
4. Place on the grill and cook about 3 to 4 mins. You can baste once or twice with the remaining marinade. Turn the fruit and move it to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat. Baste again with the marinade. Grill until the pineapple is tender and golden, about 3 more mins.
5. Remove the pineapple from the grill and place on a platter. Next, brush with the rum – if using. Last, sprinkle with the lime zest. Serve hot or warm!

For the Coconut Cream:
1. With an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream and cream of coconut until soft peaks form. TIP: You can also use this same cream again and just serve with your favorite fresh berries all season long.

So perfect for a summer treat with friends. Enjoy!
Let’s make my GREEN ME UP smoothie! I’ve been Let’s make my GREEN ME UP smoothie! I’ve been making this smoothie or a variation of it for the past 13-14 yrs, heck before there was TikTok. 😂 Such a delicious way to pack in some serious nutrition and those GREENS. 

Smoothies are an incredible tool to your wellbeing. They are super easy, versatile, and gosh dang - delicious and healthy. (If made correctly). That’s why I’m all about getting my clients on the smoothie train - if they’re up for it. 😉 

Just love providing clients with dozens of smoothie recipes I’ve created packed with protein and fiber, including healthy fats that keep you full 3-5 hrs easily. No matter what season of life I’ve been in personally: serious training, fitness modeling, both pregnancies/postpartum/nursing, healing, and now being a busy mom feeding our kids smoothies each morning, smoothies have been an essential piece.

This is a loose recipe so you can add anything else you want. Just make sure you have your protein source, your favorite veggies (hello phytonutrients), fiber sources and healthy fat. 

** Tip: put all the ingredients (EXCEPT the liquid) in the blender the night before! This tip has helped for years.

🥬GREEN ME UP SMOOTHIE🥬

• Handful of organic greens
• 1-2 cups organic celery (vitamins A, K, C, hydrating, supports digestion)
• 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower rice (makes it thick, extra fiber)
• 1 Brazil nut (gives daily selenium, which is important for fertility)
• 1/4 of an avocado
• 1/4 cup wild blueberries
• 1 tsp organic spirulina @nowfoodsofficial 
• 1/4-1/2 ceylon cinnamon (helps regulate blood sugar, antioxidant)
• 1 scoop @paleovalley bone broth powder
• 1 scoop whey - I like isolate and @nowfoodsofficial has a good one
• Creatine @nowfoodsofficial (fav supplement for 10+ yrs)
• 6-8 oz of unsweetened almond or coconut milk
• 1 scoop of @beeyawellness for topping, optional 

Other options I rotate in: ginger root, basil & chia seeds, psyllium husk powder, lemon (vitamin C), herbs like cilantro & mint, dandelion greens (great source of vitamin K).

1. Place everything in a HIGH-speed blender (yes this is important. Otherwise you’ll get salad texture). Blend for about 1 min. Enjoy!
Happy 2nd birthday to this special girl who I’m Happy 2nd birthday to this special girl who I’m utterly positive is a true magical fairy princess. We did a purple bday theme to match her cast. We just love watching you shine and embrace your world! 
You bring such joy and laughter to us Aubyn and may your birthday be as extraordinary as you are, sweet one. 💜🎂💜
Your kids are always listening. Always watching. A Your kids are always listening. Always watching. Always paying attention to your every move. They want to be. just. like. you. Healthy habits start young! Glad to see these two at 23 months & 6 yrs old lifting all on their own. 💪🏻

Recently Asher rushed home from school and said “I’m working out for 10 mins to get strong.” Followed by “then I can break free from all the hugs.” We learned that apparently 3 girls at recess hug Asher nonstop and he wants to get strong to “get away from all the girls.” 😳 Never a dull moment.
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Hi! I'm Monica Nelson and I'm thrilled that you're here. As a healthy chef, personal trainer & fitness expert, competitive athlete & sports model, I love helping people look & feel great! Try a recipe or read a wellness blog and tell me what you think.

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