Weight Watchers' Oven Fries

Weight Watchers' Oven Fries Recipe with Parmesan Cheese and Bacon Bits

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Weight Watchers' Oven Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried french fries. These crispy potato wedges are seasoned with parmesan cheese, paprika, bacon bits, and white pepper for a flavorful twist on a classic favorite.

History

This recipe was created by Weight Watchers as a low-calorie and low-fat option for those looking to enjoy the taste of fries without all the guilt. By baking the potatoes instead of frying them, this recipe cuts down on the amount of oil and calories typically found in traditional french fries.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese
2 tsp of paprika
0.5 tsp of bacon bits
ground white pepper to taste
12 oz (340 g) of scrubbed baking potatoes

How to prepare

Cut the potatoes into wedges measuring 3 inches x 0.5 inches.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Spray a nonstick baking pan with non-stick spray.
Combine all ingredients except for the potatoes.
Toss the potatoes in the mixture to thoroughly coat them (suggestion: put them in a gallon-size plastic bag, press out the air, seal it, and toss).
Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, turning them over after 5 minutes.

Variations

Feel free to customize the seasoning mixture to suit your taste preferences. You can also try using sweet potatoes or other root vegetables in place of the baking potatoes for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that your oven fries come out crispy and golden brown, be sure to cut the potatoes into uniform wedges and coat them thoroughly in the seasoning mixture. Turning the fries halfway through baking will also help them cook evenly on all sides.

Serving Suggestions

These oven fries are delicious on their own or served with a side of ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the potatoes instead of frying them helps to reduce the amount of oil and calories in this recipe, making it a healthier option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have bacon bits on hand, you can omit them or substitute with cooked and crumbled turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoning mixture and cut the potatoes ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights. Simply toss the potatoes in the seasoning mixture and bake when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these oven fries on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

These oven fries pair well with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches for a satisfying and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover oven fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Weight Watchers' Oven Fries contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Weight Watchers' Oven Fries contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

There are about 5 grams of fat in each serving of these oven fries.

Proteins

These oven fries provide around 4 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making these oven fries a nutritious side dish option.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and bacon bits, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Overall, these oven fries are a relatively low-calorie and low-fat option for those looking to enjoy a tasty side dish without all the guilt.

Summary

Weight Watchers' Oven Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried french fries. With a crispy exterior and flavorful seasoning, these potato wedges are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a side dish or snack for a guilt-free indulgence!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Weight Watchers' Oven Fries. It was a sunny afternoon in the late 1980s, and I was flipping through a magazine at the doctor's office while waiting for my appointment. As I turned the pages, a colorful advertisement caught my eye - a picture of crispy, golden fries next to a headline that read "Healthy and Delicious Oven Fries."

Intrigued, I read through the recipe, which promised a guilt-free alternative to the greasy fries I knew and loved. The ingredients were simple - potatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper - and the method seemed easy enough. I made a mental note to try it out at home and tucked the torn-out page into my purse.

When I got home that evening, I gathered the ingredients and followed the recipe step by step. I sliced the potatoes into thin strips, tossed them in olive oil, seasoned them with salt and pepper, and then spread them out on a baking sheet. As they baked in the oven, the aroma of roasted potatoes filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the timer went off, I pulled the baking sheet out of the oven and marveled at the sight before me - perfectly golden and crispy oven fries, just like the picture in the magazine. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

I took a bite of a fry, and to my surprise, it was even better than I had imagined. The potatoes were tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, with just the right amount of seasoning. I couldn't believe that something so simple could taste so delicious.

From that day on, Weight Watchers' Oven Fries became a staple in my kitchen. I made them for family dinners, potlucks, and even packed them in my kids' lunch boxes. Everyone raved about how tasty they were, and I felt proud to have discovered such a healthy and satisfying recipe.

Over the years, I've made a few tweaks to the original recipe to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky flavor, or a handful of fresh herbs for a pop of color. Each batch of oven fries is a little different, but they always turn out crispy and delicious.

One day, while attending a cooking class at the local community center, I shared my recipe for Weight Watchers' Oven Fries with the instructor. She was impressed by how simple and healthy it was, and asked if I would be willing to teach a class on healthy cooking.

I was thrilled at the opportunity to share my passion for cooking with others, and I gladly accepted her offer. In the weeks that followed, I taught a series of classes on nutritious and delicious recipes, including my famous oven fries. The students loved learning how to make a healthy version of a classic comfort food, and many of them went home and made it for their families.

As the years went by, I continued to make Weight Watchers' Oven Fries for my loved ones and friends. It became a tradition at family gatherings and holiday meals, a dish that everyone looked forward to enjoying. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked for it, knowing that it would bring a little bit of joy and satisfaction to their lives.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing a batch of oven fries for dinner, I can't help but smile at the memories that this recipe holds. It's not just a dish to me - it's a symbol of my love for cooking, my dedication to health and wellness, and my desire to share good food with the people I care about.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a tasty and nutritious snack, give Weight Watchers' Oven Fries a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll create your own memories and stories around this simple yet satisfying recipe. Happy cooking!