Swiss Potato Pancake with Ham & Cheese

We’ve lightened the fat content of this crisp potato cake by baking it with olive oil instead of frying it in butter. The ham and cheese make this dish versatile; serve it as an entrée or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds all-purpose potatoes, preferably Yukon Gold (about 8), peeled and quartered
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions, (4 scallions)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2/3 cup smoked ham, finely chopped (3 ounces)
• 1/2 cup grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, (1 1/2 ounces)

Directions:

1. Position oven rack at the lowest level. Preheat oven to 450°F.

2. Cover potatoes with cold water in a medium saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil. Drain and refresh with cold water. When cool enough to handle, grate the potatoes. Transfer to a bowl. Add scallions, salt and pepper; toss with a fork until mixed.

3. Coat a 10-inch pie plate or cast-iron skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Brush 1 teaspoon oil evenly over the surface. Spread half of the potato mixture evenly over the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle with ham and cheese. Spread the remaining potato mixture over top, pressing evenly. Brush the remaining 1 teaspoon oil over the surface. Bake until the underside is golden and the potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes.

4. Carefully loosen edges with a thin metal spatula or a knife. Shake the pie plate or pan to be sure the potatoes are sliding freely. Invert a serving platter over the pie plate or pan. Grasp the platter and the baking dish with oven mitts and carefully turn over. Remove the pie plate or pan. Cut into wedges with a serrated knife. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Nutrition per Serving:
(Serves 6)

• Calories = 185
• Total fat = 5 g
• Saturated fat = 2 g
• Cholesterol = 14 mg
• Carbohydrate = 27 g
• Fiber = 2 g
• Protein = 7 g
• Sodium = 395 mg
• Potassium = 839 mg

The Author:

Aimee Croatti is a writer for American Diabetes Services, who provide low cost and free diabetic supplies to diabetics who qualify through their medical insurance plans. As the nation’s leading diabetic supply company, we are a Medicare provider and work with most major medical insurance plans. Additionally, American Diabetes Services accepts assignment on Medicare and private insurance claims.

Photo. Psy7445