Recipe: Potato Coins

I'm trying to feed six of us on a budget, and sometimes that means bumping up the side dishes when we have a smaller entree.  One of the budget friendly foods I turn to often is potatoes.  I know, I know--potatoes are carbs--but potatoes are actually good for you when they are not fried or mixed with butter and cream.  One medium sized potato has 150 calories and is high in fiber and potassium (even more than bananas). 

Lately, we have a new favorite way to make potatoes--potato coins.  Potato coins are a healthy mix between a french fry and a chip.  They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.  We've served these alongside burgers and roasts and even with breakfast.  They'd be yummy as an after school snack, too.

 Here's how to make them (this is for about 6 servings):

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
2. Drizzle 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil onto a large baking sheet.  Spread the oil around with a pastry brush so the entire surface is lightly coated.
3. Peel 3 medium potatoes and then slice the potatoes into 1/8" coins (slices).  Place the potato slices in a single layer onto the baking sheet.  Use the pastry brush to brush the tops of the potatoes with olive oil (about  1 tablespoon).
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the bottoms of the potato coins are golden brown.  Flip the potatoes over and return tho the oven for another 10 minutes to crisp up the other side.
5. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt and a little ground pepper.  Serve hot and enjoy!