It's that time of year again. Outside, leaves are falling and the fall air is crisp and cool. The time of year that makes me want to cuddle up in bed with something warm and sinful. Today I had a craving for a hot baked potato, loaded with all the toppings- melted butter, sour cream, crumbled bacon, and of course an abundant sprinkling of melted cheese. However, a baked potato with all the trimmings is not too friendly on the waistline, with about 620 calories and 33 grams of fat! So instead of feeling guilty about my food choice, I decided to give the traditional baked potato a make-over! By swapping out some of the fattening toppings for more healthy options, I was able to slash the number of calories to 315, and eliminate 14 grams of fat! Now you will be able to enjoy piping hot baked potatoes with all of the delicious toppings all fall and winter long!
Made-Over Baked Potato
1 Smart Potato (I used Pro Health Baking Potatoes from Hy-Vee, which I got on sale--only $1.79 for a 10-lb bag!)
1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Plain Greek Yogurt
2 Tsp Low Fat Shredded Cheddar Cheese
2 Slices Low Sodium Turkey Bacon
First, preheat your oven to 400 F. Scrub your potato and dry well with a towel. Take a fork and pierce the skin of the potato about four times on each side. Rub the olive oil all over the potato. This will create a delicious crispy skin! When the oven is ready, place the potato directly on the rack, in about the middle of the oven. On the rack below, place a piece of aluminum foil to catch any drippings. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until the potato is tender. Meanwhile, cook the turkey bacon in a skillet. Let cool and then crumble into small pieces. When the potato is done, remove carefully from the oven. Cut the potato in half, and top with yogurt, cheese, and bacon bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If you want to speed up the cooking process, the potato and bacon can be cooked via microwave. I personally love the way a potato skin crisps up in the oven, but I regularly use a microwave when crunched for time. These make a great and healthy lunch option as well! Bring your toppings and potato to work with you. At lunch time, pop your potato in the microwave and you will have a fresh hot meal in minutes! Feel free to experiment with new toppings as well! Thanks for stopping by :)
here's to living,
T.
