These tasty bite-size morsels include protein, healthy fat, and complex carbohydrates
Column and photos by Dana Rady, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association
In February 2013, our son, Griffin, was born. Approximately two-and-a-half years later, his brother, Easton, came along. I didn’t grow up with brothers, but I’ve heard many mothers comment about how frequently boys eat, especially as they mature.
So, when Griffin and Easton were infants, I thought, “At least I don’t have to worry about the grocery bill until they’re in high school.” That was the biggest lie I told myself. Yes, economic circumstances and other factors have all contributed to spending more on food each week.
As a family, we focus on eating quality proteins, healthy fats, and fruits and vegetables. Even so, I am in awe at how fast Griffin, who is now 13 and one year away from high school, is growing. Easton is no slouch, either, but he hasn’t quite hit the same growth spurt as his older brother.
In March, we bought Griffin new tennis shoes and cleats for baseball since he had outgrown his from the beginning of the school year. On that shopping spree, we bought him a size 12 in men’s. Barely five months later, he showed me that his toes were poking through the tennis shoes.
He is quite proud that he’s officially surpassed me in height as of this summer (when I’m not wearing heels) and isn’t far behind me in weight either.
HEALTHY FOOD
You’re looking at a mom who needs to keep food in the house. And while the boys will eat just about anything, I don’t want just any food. I want to support them with whole, satiating, healthy, delicious, and preferably homemade food, including snacks, meals, side dishes, and everything in between.
Especially with on-the-go schedules throughout the year between baseball, football, basketball, and swimming, ensuring that the boys and their sister, Havyn, receive the nutrients they need to be their best each day is vital for their success and growth.
Potatoes easily fit the criteria given the health benefits they naturally provide, their satiating properties, and especially, their versatility. The humble potato’s ability to successfully adapt to various dishes and flavors is truly one of my favorite qualities about America’s most-loved vegetable.
That’s why keeping “Potato Pizza Bites” in the Rowdy Rady household is a “no-brainer.” An easy snack to make ahead of time, keep in the freezer, and use for a quick snack or lunch can make all the difference when you’re bouncing from school to evening practices and don’t walk through the door again until 7 p.m.
These bite-sized morsels have protein, healthy fat, and complex carbohydrates. They’re also completely customizable to fit your individual tastes. Trust me, they’re a real game changer!
