Garlic Rutabaga Oven Fries

You opened your box and discovered a weird thing you've never seen before. Looks a little like a beet or a potato or a turnip, but not really. And it's covered in wax?! Those are in fact, rutabagas! Not sure what the heck to do with that? No problem! That's why we're here. Our customers tell us that they like our program because it challenges them to try new foods that they might not otherwise purchase. This week we are definitely doing that. I know rutabaga might not be exactly what you had in mind, but if we hadn't rescued these, dozens of cases would have been pitched.

Until recently the only way I had ever eaten rutabaga was when my mother-in-law made it at Thanksgiving. She mashes it up like mashed potatoes. I can't say it's ever been my favorite veggie, but this recipe might just be helping me change my mind about it. Skeptical? Give this a try and I promise you will be pleasantly surprised.

Plus, rutabagas are full of so many beneficial nutrients. It can help improve digestive health, prevent certain forms of cancer, act as an antioxidant, boost the immune system, and improve metabolic function. Rutabaga also lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, aids in cellular and enzymatic functions, builds strong bones, and can even help lose weight. Convinced yet?

Rutabaga Oven Fries

1 rutabaga

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1/2 lemon, juiced

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. dried herbs (I used thyme)

First you'll need to cut away the wax and the skin of the rutabaga. You'll need a sharp knife to do this. Cut off the ends first and then stand it on one end. Carefully slice the skin off going around all sides. You can watch me do this on Instagram stories or Facebook if you need more direction. Then cut it in half and then slice into small strips just like you would do with a potato to make oven fries.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Place the strips on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic and herbs. Mix together with your hands to coat well. Place in the oven and roast for 30 to 40 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve alongside a burger (mine is a veggie burger).

You'll be amazed by how much these look like regular fries made with potatoes. They may even taste better! They have a unique flavor that's a tiny bit sweet and a little nutty. I think it tastes a little like a cross between a potato and butternut squash. They are nice and firm and hold up better when roasted than sweet potatoes or butternut.

Can't wait to see what you think of this recipe. Share your thoughts with us! If you aren't ready to use your rutabaga yet, you can store it (uncut) in a cool storage place for months. They store well in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Have a great weekend and, as always, thank you for your commitment to reducing food waste and supporting a locally owned business. Eat well. Be well.