Celebrate National French Fry Day…Every Day!

Celebrate National French Fry Day…Every Day!

French fries are an American favorite. They go perfectly with a juicy cheeseburger or a basket of fresh fried chicken tenders. But did you know that people have been eating this popular side dish for centuries?

Despite their name, some historians believe French fries may have originated in Belgium. Americans first came into contact with these crispy potatoes during World War I when soldiers were stationed in that country. American soldiers nicknamed the tasty snack "French fries" because the official language of the Belgian army was French.

National French Fry Day is July 18, which makes it the perfect time to indulge in your favorite snack. You can stick with traditional fries served plain with your favorite condiments. However, we're excited to share a few fun ways to kick your fries up a notch. Don't want to wait for July? No problem! These recipes are perfect for any day of the year, too.

French Fry Nachos

Who doesn't love nachos? Take yours to the next level by replacing classic tortilla chips with French fries. While you can use any cut or style that you like, waffle fries make it easier to scoop up all the gooey goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 package frozen French fries
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet Food Lion taco seasoning
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 6-ounce can sliced black olives
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Sliced green onions

Directions:

1. Bake or fry the French fries according to their package instructions. Then, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain the excess fat and return the meat to the skillet. Add the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on its package.
3. Spread the fully cooked fries on a baking sheet.
4. Cover the fries with ground beef, cheese, and black olives.
5. Place the nacho fries in the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
6. Add salsa, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions to the top. Serve.

Baked Greek Fries

Greek fries combine several unique Mediterranean flavors for a fresh spin on your favorite side dish. If you think French fries and cheese go hand in hand, you'll love these chunky hand-cut fries that feature feta.

Ingredients:

• 2 large Russet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 2 ounces feta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400F.
2. Spread the potato wedges onto a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil. Cover the wedges with Greek seasoning, lemon zest, and salt and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
3. Bake until the potatoes are tender and slightly crispy, about 25 to 30 minutes.
4. Remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Dig in!

Sweet Potato Fries with Buffalo Chicken

The sweet and spicy combo of buffalo hot wings and sweet potato fries is second to none. These fries are good enough for French fry day, game day, or any other day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 package frozen sweet potato fries
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup Buffalo sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (any kind you prefer)
• Sliced green onions
• Ranch or bleu cheese dressing

Directions:

1. Cook the sweet potato fries according to their package instructions.
2. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook it until it's golden on the outside and no longer pink in the middle.
3. Add the buffalo sauce to the chicken and heat for 1 more minute.
4. Remove the fries from the oven and top them with the chicken and cheese. Bake them for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
5. Top with ranch or bleu cheese dressing and green onions. Serve.

Instead of shredded cheese, you can also try sprinkling bleu cheese crumbles over your fries.

English Chip Shop-Style Chips

Fish and chips make for a traditional British dish that's still widely popular today.  It's the tangy flavor of malt vinegar that really makes these chips (fries!) stand out.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes, washed, peeled, and cut into wedges
• 1 quart vegetabl e oil
• Salt
• Malt vinegar

Directions:

1. Place the potato wedges into a bowl with cold water. Allow them to soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and dry the wedges thoroughly.
2. Preheat the oil to 350F in a stock pot or deep fryer.
3. Fry the potatoes until they're a golden color. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off the extra oil.
4. Sprinkle with salt and serve with a side of malt vinegar.

You can eat these on their own or serve them with fresh fried cod fillets and tartar sauce for dipping.

Crispy No-Oil Fries

French fries don't have to be unhealthy. Potatoes are America's favorite vegetable and are packed with tons of nutrition. Skip the oil and avoid frying your potatoes for a healthy alternative to your favorite side dish.

Ingredients:

• 3 large Russet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425F.
2. Place the potato wedges in a large pot and fill it with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and let the wedges cook for 5 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and add them back to the pot. Sprinkle on the seasonings and toss to combine.
4. Arrange the potato wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until tender and slightly crispy.
5. Serve with your favorite condiments.

National French Fry Day is right around the corner. Shop at Food Lion to get all the ingredients you need at affordable prices you'll love. Be sure to use your MVP card for additional savings!