A Healthy Spin On French Fries

French fries are one of the world's most popular side dishes. Sizzling and salty, crispy on the outside and tender inside, these deep-fried potato strips are the perfect go-with for everything from Sunday roasts to fast-food sandwiches.

Unfortunately, the classic French fry doesn't fit quite so well into most healthy eating plans. The deep frying that creates the delectable texture also boosts the fat and calorie content, and the high salt content makes them a no-go for most sodium-restricted meal plans.

But that doesn't mean that enjoying fries means devastating your diet plan. There are lots of French fry alternatives that deliver all the flavor, fun, and satisfaction of traditional fries without the extra fat, salt, and calories. Here are two good alternatives to standard fries.

Oven Fries
These chunky fries are hearty and satisfying, and they're fast and simple to make!

- four medium potatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- salt, pepper, and seasonings to taste* (some possibilities: garlic powder, onion powder, minced garlic, steak seasoning, chili powder)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Wash the potatoes thoroughly, but do not pierce or poke. Arrange potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for four to five minutes.

Remove semi-cooked potatoes from microwave and cut into wedges about a quarter of an inch thick. Toss wedges with vegetable oil, salt, pepper, and desired spices in a bowl, stirring to coat all wedges evenly. Arrange on baking sheet and bake at 425 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes.

Sweet Potato Fries
These sweet-and-savory "fries" are low in fat and calories, and add both color and flavor to any meal.

- Two medium sweet potatoes
- Two tablespoons vegetable oil
- One tablespoon brown sugar
- salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Wash potatoes thoroughly but do not pierce or poke. Cook whole potatoes in microwave on high for five minutes.

Remove semi-cooked potatoes from microwave and cut in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 6 - 8 long strips. Toss strips with oil and sugar in shallow dish or pan, turning each strip to make sure it's well coated.

Arrange strips in singler layer on cookie sheet or other shallow pan (cover pan with foil first for easier cleanup!). Make sure the strips are not overlapping each other. Bake at 450 degrees for 15 minutes, then turn strips over using spatula or tongs. Bake for an additional five to 10 minutes, or until strips are lightly browned. Add salt and pepper while strips are still hot.