Welcome to Tasty Tidbits, your go-to guide for making the most out of the fresh, local produce that you find at Alabama farmers markets! Brought to you by Live Well Alabama, each edition highlights a delicious fruit or vegetable, providing nutrition facts, simple storage and cooking tips, and new recipe ideas. Get ready to explore fresh flavors, boost your meals with nutritious ingredients, and enjoy the best of what Alabama’s farms have to offer.

Nutrition Nuggets 

• Rich in potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure and heart function.
• High-fiber peel supports a healthy digestive system.

How to Store 

• Keep in a cool, well-ventilated area, like on a kitchen countertop or in a pantry, for 2 to 4 weeks.
• Do not wash before storing as moisture promotes early spoilage. 
• Store separate from onions, winter squash, and garlic. 
• May be stored in the freezer for 3 months.

How to Prepare 

• Wash and dry.
• Cut into wedges or cubes, slice into rounds, shred, or leave whole.

How to Enjoy 

• Great as a side dish, either mashed or roasted in the oven.
• Mix with other healthy ingredients for a refreshing, hearty salad.
• Add to casseroles, soups, or stews. 

Did You Know? White potatoes and sweet potatoes are similar in nutrient content for fiber, protein, vitamin B6, and iron. However, white potatoes contain more vitamin C and potassium, whereas sweet potatoes contain more beta-carotene and calcium. 

Recipes 

Roasted Potatoes 

Ingredients 

• 3 cups potatoes, chopped 
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped 
• 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped 
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 
• 1 teaspoon olive oil 
• Parsley and paprika to taste (optional)

Directions 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 
• Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
• In a medium-sized bowl, mix potatoes, onions, green peppers, and seasonings. 
• Spread potatoes in a single layer on baking sheet. 
• Roast for 35 minutes or until fork tender. 

Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients 

• 2 pounds potatoes (6 medium) 
• 1 cup milk, low-fat 
• 3 tablespoons margarine or butter 
• 1 teaspoon salt 
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper 

Directions

• Peel potatoes and cut into chunks. 
• Put potatoes in a medium saucepan with enough water to cover them.
• Cook on medium heat for 15 minutes or until tender.
• Remove potatoes from heat and drain water. 
• Mash potatoes with a fork or potato masher. 
• Stir in enough milk to make the potatoes smooth and creamy. 
• Add the butter, salt, and pepper. 

Lemon Potatoes 

Ingredients 

• 3 medium potatoes, chopped 
• 1 lemon, juiced (about 1/4 cup of lemon juice) 
• 1 clove garlic, minced 
• 2 tablespoons oil 

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 
• Combine lemon juice, garlic, and oil in a mixing bowl. 
• Pour 1 1/2 tablespoons of the oil and lemon mixture into a casserole dish.  
• Place the potatoes in the pan and coat the potatoes with the mixture from the pan.
• Bake about 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender. 
• After removing from the oven, brush the remaining oil and lemon mixture on the potatoes and serve warm. 

Learn More

For more Tasty Tidbits, visit www.LiveWellAlabama.com.

Want to connect with others interested in a healthy lifestyle? Follow Live Well Alabama on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! These platforms offer a space to share experiences, find inspiration, and join a community focused on well-being.