Parsnip Fries

Slightly sweet, earthy, and crunchy Parsnip Fries can substitute French fries any day!

French fries are a comfort food for me and so many other people I know. What’s more comforting than a French fry dipped in ketchup, or better yet, covered in cheese? As comforting as they are, I’ve been experimenting with non-potato-based fries lately because I need more variety in my diet, and I go through a sack of potatoes quicker than anyone ought to.

You can cut tons of different vegetables into French fry shapes. Sweet potatoes, turnips, and zucchini will all look similar to fries once they’re fried up. But what about the less common vegetables, like parsnips? Have you ever even bought a parsnip? If not, I’m here to tell you that it’s time to buy a parsnip, and the best way to explore parsnips is to turn them into fries.

Parsnip fries are slightly sweeter than regular fries, but not as sweet as sweet potatoes. There’s an earthier flavor to parsnips compared to sweet or white potatoes, too. They’re nice and crunchy like regular French fries, thanks to the added cornstarch, and the flavor differences are pleasant—not overwhelming. I’m happy to report that they’re just as tasty with any manner of dips and toppings as regular French fries, too! Explore the veggies you’ve never tried!

Are These Parsnip Fries Healthy?

Yes! Parsnips are low in fat, and though they’re high in carbohydrates, they’re much higher in fiber than regular potatoes. They also contain plenty of nutrients, such as potassium, a bit of calcium, and even some vitamin C and iron. They’re slightly lower in calories than regular potatoes, on average. All in all, they make a fairly healthy fry! This recipe for parsnip fries only has a few ingredients, and the olive oil brings some healthy fats to the picture. They’re vegan and gluten-free, too.

The Many Ways To Season Parsnip Fries

Though parsnips have a little more sweetness and earthiness than potatoes, they’re still relatively neutral in flavor. When it comes to adding seasonings to your parsnip fries, think of parsnips the same way as potatoes. In other words, they taste great with a little salt and pepper, but adventurous eaters shouldn’t stop there. This recipe calls for salt and seasoning salt, which is a nice combo, but here are some of my favorite ways to tweak the flavor in this recipe.

• Black pepper, garlic salt, and Parmesan cheese. This flavor combination really kicks things up a notch. Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan near the end of the bake gives the fries an Italian touch!
• Crushed red pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and truffle oil. I’m a huge fan of mushroom-flavored anything. Use olive oil to coat the fries before baking, and drizzle a tiny bit of truffle oil on the finished fries.
• Bacon, cheddar, chives, and garlic salt. Who says you can’t turn parsnips into a loaded baked potato? Cook and crumble the bacon separately, bake the fries as directed, then add shredded cheddar and bacon to the top of the fries in the last five minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these fantastic parsnip fries with your favorite French fry dipping sauce! I love classic ketchup, Remoulade Sauce, and BBQ Sauce, but feel free to try different flavored sauces like Chipotle Aioli or Harissa Aioli.

Of course, parsnip fries are like regular fries in that they make a great side for all kinds of mains. I like to serve these alongside Baked Hamburgers and grilled meats, like this Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast.

If the parsnips have you thinking outside your potato-only French fry box, know that this is only the tip of the fries-berg. Consider making these Keto French Fries (made with rutabaga), Butternut Squash Fries, Zucchini Fries, or Air-Fryer Carrot Fries.

Recipe