A lighter latke with a hint of sweetness cooked in

It’s easy to make crispy latkes without oodles of oil. Adding shredded pears to the traditional potato mixture gives the latkes a hint of sweetness. A touch of fresh sage provides an herbal note that goes well with most holiday meals.

Serve the latkes topped with a dollop of low-fat sour cream or enjoy them plain.

POTATO-PEAR LATKES

Makes: 6 servings (2 latkes each)

Active time: 35 minutes

Total time: 55 minutes

1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, shredded 1 large firm (slightly underripe) pear, shredded

2 (6-inch-square) pieces matzo, crushed 1 medium shallot, finely chopped 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh sage 1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 large egg, lightly beaten

3 tablespoons canola oil, divided

1. Toss potatoes, pear and matzo in a large bowl and let stand, stirring once or twice, until the matzo is softened, about 20 minutes. Stir in shallot, sage, salt and pepper. Add egg and stir to coat.

2. Place a baking sheet in the oven; preheat to 200 degrees.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 4 latkes at a time, using ¼ cup lightly packed potatopear mixture for each. Press with back of a spatula to flatten into a 3-inch cake. Cook until crispy and golden, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to baking sheet in oven to keep warm. Repeat with two more batches of the remaining potato mixture and oil, reducing

the heat as necessary to prevent burning. Recipe nutrition per serving: 189 calories; 8 g fat; 31 mg cholesterol; 28 g carbohydrate; 0 g added sugars; 4 g protein; 3 g fiber; 401 mg sodium; 429 mg potassium

EATINGWELL