Potato Skin Bar: Healthy Comfort Food for ALL

Poor things- potatoes get such a bad rap and it's not fair! They've been mashed for years. From Adkins to South Beach and now a debate on the school lunch line.

But, it's not their fault! It's our fault!! Too many only know to peel then fry them up with lots of grease and dash some salt on top and slather that traditional red sauce on top. They aren't going to make you pack on the pounds when prepared a healthy way showcasing their skins and all! I mean- do folks even know what a real potato tastes like anymore?

Did you know that one medium potato has around 160 calories, 37grams of carbohydrates, 4grams of protein and 4grams of fiber from the skin alone. They are also great sources of vitamin C, vitamin B6 and potassium.

Well, I believe that, in moderation of course, these rough skin fellas are one of my favorite comfort foods! Come on, who doesn't like to eat something that just about instantly fills your belly making you comfortable.

Warning: Potato skins that you order from restaurants are typically not a great choice but when made at home where you can control the ingredients, they can become a smart comfort food! Felt I needed to mention this fact.

Now that you are okay with eating potatoes- are you a skin fan or not? I love the skins, crunchy with a bit of salt. Ah- and luckily my family likes them too! So, twisted the potato bar concept and pulled together a Potato Skin Bar. Offered the fam plenty of options to dress their potato with then slipped them in the oven to finish off the crispy skin part.

Loved seeing my gals pile on the vegetables and beans! Remember, giving them choices and a chance to fix it themselves makes a world of difference!

Potato Skins

4 russett potatoes
1 tbsp + 1 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp course sea salt

Toppings
1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Monterery Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup black beans
1 cup red pepper, diced
2 cups steamed broccoli
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 slices of cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup lowfat sour cream

Directions

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Scrub potatoes and pierce with knife then rub with oil. Bake on baking sheet covered with foil for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Test potatoes and make sure they tender. When cool, slice in half and with spoon or melon scoop, emtpy potato halfs. Turn oven to low broil. Brush remainder oil over the inside of the potato and place skins back in oven and broil for 5 minutes or until skins begin to brown around edges.

Pull from oven and immediately dress skins with toppings and return to broiler until cheese melts. Top with sour cream and enjoy!