Did you know that 1 small (1-3/4" to 2-1/4" dia) red potato with both flesh and skin contains 122 calories? While some people may shy away from potatoes because of the misconception that they are not diet-friendly, small red potatoes can actually be a healthy addition to your diet. In this article, we will explore the nutritional facts, health benefits, cooking and serving suggestions, and shopping/storage tips for small red potatoes.

Small red potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. One small red potato with skin provides about 2 grams of fiber, which is 8% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function, and one small red potato provides about 10% of the daily recommended intake. Vitamin C is important for immune function and skin health, and one small red potato provides 22% of the daily recommended intake. Vitamin B6 is involved in over 100 enzyme reactions in the body, and one small red potato provides about 10% of the daily recommended intake.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies on how to incorporate small red potatoes into your diet.

Calories in Small Red Potatoes

As mentioned earlier, 1 small (1-3/4" to 2-1/4" dia) red potato with both flesh and skin contains 122 calories. However, keep in mind that the calorie count may vary depending on the size of the potato.

Small Red Potatoes Nutritional Facts

Small red potatoes are a good source of several important nutrients, including fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Here are the nutritional facts for 1 small red potato with skin (153 g):

• calories: 122
• Fat: 0.2 g
• Sodium: 10 mg
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Potassium: 515 mg (10% of the Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 18.4 mg (22% of the Daily Value)
• Vitamin B6: 0.27 mg (10% of the Daily Value)

Small Red Potatoes and Weight Loss

Contrary to popular belief, potatoes can be part of a healthy weight loss diet. In fact, research has shown that potatoes can help with weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing hunger. Additionally, small red potatoes are a low calorie and low fat food that can be a good source of nutrients and fiber. Just make sure to watch your portion sizes and avoid adding high calorie toppings like butter and sour cream.

Small Red Potatoes Serving Suggestions

Small red potatoes can be a versatile and tasty addition to many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to try:

• Roasted: Toss small red potatoes with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast them in the oven until crispy and golden brown.
• Mashed: Boil small red potatoes until tender, then mash them with a little butter and milk for a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
• Salad: Chop boiled small red potatoes and mix them with chopped veggies and a vinaigrette dressing for a simple and healthy salad.
• Soup: Add diced small red potatoes to your favorite soup recipe for added fiber and nutrition.

Small Red Potatoes as a Healthy Snack

Small red potatoes can be a satisfying and healthy snack option. Simply wash and dry them, then roast or boil them until tender. You can also sprinkle them with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder, for extra flavor.

Small Red Potatoes and Cooking

Small red potatoes can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, boiling, and grilling. When cooking small red potatoes, it is generally best to leave the skin on to maximize the nutritional benefits. Make sure to wash them thoroughly before cooking.

Small Red Potatoes Health Benefits

Small red potatoes offer several health benefits, including:

• Fiber: Small red potatoes are a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion and weight management.
• Potassium: Small red potatoes are high in potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.
• Vitamin C: Small red potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.
• Vitamin B6: Small red potatoes contain vitamin B6, which is involved in over 100 enzyme reactions in the body and is important for cardiovascular health.

Small Red Potatoes vs. Other Potatoes

When compared to other types of potatoes, small red potatoes have some advantages. For example, they are lower in starch than other types of potatoes, which can make them a better option for people with diabetes or who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels. Additionally, small red potatoes are higher in nutrients like fiber, potassium, and vitamin C than other types of potatoes.

Small Red Potatoes Shopping and Storage Tips

When shopping for small red potatoes, look for firm, smooth potatoes without any soft spots or sprouts. Store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or basement, for up to 2 weeks. Avoid storing them in the fridge, which can cause the starches to turn into sugars and affect the taste and texture of the potatoes.

Small Red Potatoes Recipes

Here are some recipe ideas to try with small red potatoes:

• Roasted small red potatoes with garlic and rosemary
• Mashed small red potatoes with roasted garlic and olive oil
• Small red potato and green bean salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Small red potato and kale soup with parmesan cheese