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Ingredients:

Peel and devein one pound of big shrimp and sauté in three tablespoons of olive oil.

minced garlic four cloves

Parmesan cheese, half a cup grated

a dash of Italiano

1/4 teaspoon of salt

little about a quarter teaspoon of black pepper

a few teaspoons of fresh parsley, minced

One lemon’s juice

Instructions:

1. Set the oven temperature to 400°F, or 200°C.

2. In a mixing bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

The next step is to coat the shrimp completely by adding them to the dish and mixing them around.

Put the shrimp on a baking sheet and spread them out in a single layer.

5. Preheat the oven to a preheated temperature and roast the shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they become somewhat brown and pink.

6. When ready to serve, take it out of the oven and top with some chopped parsley and squeeze some fresh lemon juice.

Changes and Hints

To make it a little spicier, you may stir in some red pepper flakes with the olive oil. Melted butter may be used in place of some of the olive oil for a butterier flavor. If you want a milder cheese, Pecorino Romano may be used in place of Parmesan.

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

8 canned buttermilk biscuits
1 pound of breakfast sausage
1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it into pieces, until it is thoroughly cooked.
Roll out each biscuit to flatten slightly, then place about a tablespoon of cooked sausage and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese in the center of each biscuit.
Fold the edges of the biscuit around the filling, pinching firmly to seal.
Place the sealed biscuits seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Variations & Tips
For a spicier kick, you can use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture as it cooks. If you’re accommodating a vegetarian diet, consider using a plant-based sausage substitute. You can also experiment with different types of cheese — pepper jack for a bit of spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Sometimes, I like to add a spoonful of sautéed onions and bell peppers to the filling for a savory twist.

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup mashed potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
1/2 cup warm milk
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast activates and becomes foamy.

Incorporate Potatoes: Add mashed potatoes to the yeast mixture and mix thoroughly.

Combine Flour and Salt: Gradually add flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into equal-sized portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them in a greased baking pan, leaving some space between each roll.

Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg wash.

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

30 ounces of frozen shredded potatoes that have been defrosted.

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 onion cut into small pieces

3 big garlic cloves chopped finely

1/4 cup of plain flour

2 cups of whole milk (you can use low-fat milk if necessary)

1 cup of chicken broth

1 cup of sour cream

8 ounces of grated strong cheddar cheese

1 and a half tablespoons of chopped parsley (you can use dried parsley if necessary).

sodium chloride

ground black pepper

1 cup of grated strong cheddar cheese for sprinkling on top.

Instructions:

Heat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a baking dish that measures 9 by 13 inches.

Heat a medium pot on the stove over medium heat.

Put oil in a pan, heat it up, and then add the onions. Cook the onions until they turn golden brown.

Crush and chop garlic, then mix it with the onions. Mix and cook until it smells good.

Put flour on top of the onions and mix them together. Stir briefly and then slowly pour in the chicken broth while continuing to stir. Add milk while stirring.

Allow the mixture to warm up and begin to thicken.

Add sour cream, cheese, salt, and pepper and mix well. Allow the mix to cook until the cheese melts and thickens. Try the food to check if it has enough seasoning.

Add parsley and mix.

Combine grated potatoes with melted cheese in a big bowl, then spread the mix in the baking dish. Ensure that everything is evenly distributed.

Put more cheese on top and bake for 35-40 minutes until the casserole is golden brown and bubbles around the edges.

Enjoy!

French fries are a universal favorite – crispy, salty, and perfect for satisfying cravings. But what if you could elevate the idea of fries into something even more creative and appetizing? Introducing crispy potato squares – an innovative twist that combines the simplicity of fries with a more sophisticated and shareable design. These golden, flavorful bites are perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun snack.

This article dives deep into how to prepare these irresistible crispy potato squares, complete with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, preparation time, calorie content, and more. Let’s transform ordinary potatoes into something extraordinary!

Ingredients for Crispy Potato Squares
To create these delicious potato squares, you’ll need simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen:

Potatoes: 4 large-sized potatoes (any starchy variety like Russet or Yukon Gold works best)

All-purpose flour: 1 cup (helps bind the mixture)

Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (for extra crispiness)

Chopped fresh parsley or green onions: 2 tablespoons

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Grated cheese (optional): ½ cup (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)

Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

Black pepper: ½ teaspoon

Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon

Paprika: ½ teaspoon

Vegetable oil: For deep frying

Water: A few tablespoons (as needed for dough consistency)

Instructions: How to Prepare Crispy Potato Squares
Prepare the Potatoes:

Wash, peel, and boil the potatoes until soft. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

Drain the water and allow the potatoes to cool slightly before mashing them into a smooth consistency.
Mix the Dough:

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with flour, cornstarch, chopped parsley (or green onions), grated cheese (if using), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Mix thoroughly until it forms a smooth dough-like consistency. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour.

Roll and Shape:

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Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a sheet about ½ inch thick.

Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into even squares (around 1.5 inches each).

Arrange the squares neatly on a plate or tray, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Fry to Perfection:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the potato squares into the oil in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried squares onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Season and Serve:

While the potato squares are still hot, sprinkle them with additional salt or your favorite seasoning blend. Toss gently to ensure even coating.

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, mayonnaise, garlic aioli, or spicy chili sauce.

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Tips for the Best Crispy Potato Squares
Use Starchy Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold yield the best texture for frying. They become crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make the dough dense and less airy. Mix until just combined for the best results.

Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the squares will absorb more oil and become greasy.

Experiment with Spices: Add spices like cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, or cumin to the dough for a unique flavor twist.

Bake for a Healthier Version: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the potato squares at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven for a crispy texture.

Calories Per Serving

The calorie count for these crispy potato squares depends on portion size and ingredients. On average:

Per 10 squares: Approximately 250 calories

Potatoes: 130 calories

Flour and cornstarch: 50 calories

Oil absorbed during frying: 60 calories

Optional cheese: Add around 50 calories if included.

If you bake them instead of frying, you can reduce the calorie content by approximately 20%.

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Why Potato Squares Are Better Than Traditional Fries
Uniform Shape for Consistency: Unlike fries, which vary in size and texture, potato squares are uniformly cut, ensuring even frying or baking.

Easy to Season and Toss: Their flat, square shape makes it easy to toss them with seasonings, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Great for Sharing: The square shape allows them to be more shareable, making them ideal for platters at gatherings.

Creative Twist: Potato squares stand out from the usual fries and will impress anyone at your table with their unique look and taste.

Delicious Variations to Try
Cheesy Potato Squares: Add more grated cheese to the dough and sprinkle with parmesan after frying for an extra cheesy treat.

Spicy Potato Squares: Mix chili flakes or jalapeño powder into the dough for a spicy kick.

Herbed Potato Squares: Incorporate dried rosemary, thyme, or dill into the mixture for a herby flavor.

Stuffed Potato Squares: Make two thin layers of dough, add a filling (like cheese or minced meat), seal, and fry for a surprise in every bite.

Conclusion
Crispy potato squares are a game-changer for potato lovers and a perfect alternative to traditional French fries. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, these squares are versatile, delicious, and easy to make. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit at any table.

So easy and delish! Been having this so much lately!
By Holly Owens
Who says indulging in a creamy bowl of ice cream has to be a guilt-trip? Not me! That’s why I came up with this Low Carb High Protein Blueberry Ice Cream using cottage cheese. It all started when I began experimenting with healthier dessert options that didn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things low-carb, or just need a protein boost post-workout, this recipe is a game changer.
This rich and creamy ice cream is delightful on its own or you could pair it with some crunchy low-carb granola for added texture. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of sliced almonds could elevate it even further – perfect for a summer evening treat or a healthy dessert at your next barbecue!
Low Carb High Protein Blueberry Ice Cream
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 cups cottage cheese
1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
1/4 cup of a sugar substitute (like erythritol or stevia)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk (optional for creamier texture)
Directions

1. Place the cottage cheese, blueberries, sugar substitute, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add almond milk until desired consistency is reached.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness with more sugar substitute if needed.
4. Transfer the ice cream mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
5. Serve immediately for a soft serve texture, or freeze for 2-3 hours for a firmer ice cream. Enjoy your guilt-free indulgence!
Variations & Tips
If blueberries aren’t your thing or you just want to mix it up, try substituting raspberries or mixed berries. Not a fan of erythritol? Use any other favorite sugar substitute. For those who don’t have an ice cream maker, fear not! Simply place the blended mixture in a freezer-safe container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes, until it’s just right. To boost the protein even more, consider adding a scoop of your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder during the blending process.

Pineapple Mango Smoothie 

1 Banana 
1 cup pineapple 
1 cup mango 
1/4 cup yogurt 
1 cup almond milk 
Ice cubes 

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cold water, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Tips:

• Flavor variations: Add a pinch of salt for a touch of sweetness. For a twist, stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for chocolate marshmallow cream.
• Serving: Enjoy on top of brownies, cookies, or graham crackers. You can also use it to make s’mores.

This quick and easy recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth in no time!

Ingredients:

• • 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

• • 30 ml (2 tablespoons) water
  • 1 cup oatmeal
  • 50g (½ cup) mixed nuts, chopped (walnuts, almonds, etc.)

• • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanillin)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • Optional: Sweetener of your choice (honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste)

Directions:

Step 1: Make the Applesauce

1. Cook the Apples:
   Place the chopped apples and 30 ml of water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples soften and break down.
2. Mash the Apples:
   Once the apples are soft, mash them with a fork or potato masher to create applesauce. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter

1. 1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
      In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, 50g of chopped nuts, and a pinch of vanillin (or vanilla extract). If using a sweetener, add it at this stage.

1. Add the Wet Ingredients:
   Stir in the applesauce and avocado oil. Mix until well combined. The batter should be slightly sticky and moist.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Donuts

1. 1. Prepare the Mini Donut Pan:
      Lightly grease a mini donut pan with avocado oil or use a non-stick spray.
   2. Spoon the Batter:
      Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of the mini donut pan with the batter, filling each about three-quarters full.

1. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the mini donuts for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. 1. Cool the Donuts:
      Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   2. Serve:
      Enjoy these mini donuts warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a sweet topping.
  • Serve with a side of fruit or yogurt for a healthy snack.
  • Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

• Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Pair with nut butter for a protein-packed snack.

Cooking Tips:

• • Customize the Batter: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra flavor, or sprinkle in some cinnamon for a warm spice note.

• Use Different Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts and almonds with your favorite nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or even seeds for added crunch.
• Sweeten to Taste: If you prefer sweeter donuts, add honey, maple syrup, or another sweetener of your choice.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so check the donuts at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Ingredients:

• • 2 stalks of celery (about 100g)
  • 1 carrot (about 70g)
  • 2 zucchini (about 250g)

• • 1 cup frozen Brussels sprouts (about 150g)
  • 1-inch piece of ginger (about 10g)
  • 1 processed cheese (about 100g)

• • 1 tsp salt (5g)
  • ½ tsp black pepper (2g)
  • 3 slices of bread (about 90g)

• • 1 tbsp olive oil (15g)
  • 1 tsp red pepper (2g)
  • 1 tsp dried garlic (2g)

• 1 tbsp fresh dill (about 5g)
• Water (enough to fill the pot)

Directions:

• • Wash and chop the celery, carrot, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large pot, add the chopped vegetables, frozen Brussels sprouts, ginger, and enough water to cover the vegetables.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• • Add processed cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  • Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.
  • Blend the soup until smooth using a hand blender or a regular blender.

• • Meanwhile, prepare the croutons: cut the bread into cubes.
  • Heat olive oil in a pan, then toss the bread cubes with salt, red pepper, and dried garlic. Fry until golden brown.
  • Serve the soup hot, topped with the homemade croutons and fresh dill.

Serving Suggestions:

1. 1. Serve with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
   2. Pair with a slice of whole-grain bread for extra fiber.

1. 1. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
   2. Top with grated cheese for added flavor.
   3. Serve with a cup of your favorite tea for a warming experience.

Cooking Tips:

• • Feel free to substitute the processed cheese with a variety of cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
  • If you like your soup thicker, use less water or add a small amount of potato to the soup.

• • For extra flavor, you can sauté the vegetables with garlic before adding water.
  • Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
  • Use homemade bread or day-old bread for croutons to reduce waste.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • This soup is high in fiber from the vegetables, which aids digestion.
  • It contains essential vitamins like vitamin C from the carrots, celery, and Brussels sprouts.

• Ginger provides anti-inflammatory benefits, while dill offers antioxidant properties.
• The addition of olive oil provides healthy fats.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian
  • Dairy (if using processed cheese)
  • Gluten (if using regular bread)

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 7g

• • Carbs: 30g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 6g

• Sodium: 800mg

Storage:

• • Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the soup (without croutons) for up to 3 months.

Ingredients

• • 1 cup oatmeal (90 g)
  • 50 g raisins (⅓ cup)
  • 50 g walnuts, chopped (½ cup)

• • 50 g dried apricots, chopped (⅓ cup)
  • 1 banana, mashed
  • 1 apple, grated (medium-sized)

• 50 g oat flakes (½ cup)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

• • In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, raisins, chopped walnuts, dried apricots, mashed banana, grated apple, and oat flakes.

• Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

• • Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

• Transfer the oatmeal mixture to the dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Bake

• • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• • Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
  • Cut into squares or bars and serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

• • Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a balanced breakfast.
  • Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips

• • Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and easier mashing.
  • Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for variety.

• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Oats: High in fiber and good for heart health.

• Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
• Dried Fruits: Provide natural sugars and are a source of vitamins and minerals.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian
  • Dairy-free
  • Can be made gluten-free with certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 8 servings):

• • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 3 g

• Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 3 g