Peanut butter and fries? Oh, yes.

Old love (pre-vegan) = cheese….mmmm
New love (actually renewed love post-vegan) = nut butters…..double mmmm

To me, there’s no better quick and comforting meal than a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I give a lot of credit to the first person who put peanut butter and jelly together. It’s what I grew up eating and now it’s still a favorite of mine. However, now I have expanded my tastes to appreciate other nut butters as well. I now love almond butter and cashew butter just the same! In fact, I am writing this post as I enjoy a sliced apple topped with almond butter 🙂

Nut butters are so versatile and healthy….if you choose the right kind. Some people don’t recommend eating nut butters because they are high in calories and fats, but I see them as healthy. You just need to know how to pick the right one. Many varieties contain added oils, hydrogenated oils, sugar, and other additives. The truth is, nuts are a healthy snack. They contain protein and healthy fats and are fine to be consumed in moderation. Nut butters are just whole nuts that are processed to a smooth mixture. So when picking a peanut butter, almond butter or cashew butter product you should look at the ingredient list before buying. The ingredient list on the label should contain only two ingredients………nuts and maybe some salt. You don’t need anything else to make the product, which is why it is so easy to make your own at home! But I often buy them for the convenience factor. Here are few of my favorites:

Ok, so now let’s get down to why you read this post in the first place. The phrase “peanut butter fries” caught your attention. Yes, I know it sounds odd, but hear me out and you will be amazed. You already know I love peanut butter, but I also really enjoy french fries. However, I prefer to make them myself for the health factor. Well, these, my friends, are a creation that once I saw the recipe, I just had to try and I encourage you to do the same. I present to you…..


Nut Butter Parsnip Fries! (adapted from Angela’s recipe)

These are so healthy, filling, and so easy to make. They are full of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and vitamins! I suggest picking up some parsnips on your next shopping trip.

Nut Butter Parsnip Fries

Ingredients:

2-3 parsnips
2 Tbsp peanut butter (crunchy or creamy)
1 Tbsp almond butter
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt

Directions:
1. Peel the parsnips and cut into strips
2. In a medium bowl, mix the nut butters, EVOO, and sea salt
3. Toss the parsnips in the mixture until all pieces are well coated
4. Spread the parsnip fries in a single layer on a baking sheet
5. Bake for about 40 minutes in a 400 degree oven, flipping halfway through

MMmm…..peanut butter……fries……no ketchup needed 😉