What’s On The Tray? Potatoes

Welcome to our monthly food-centered pop quiz – What’s on the Tray? – spotlighting foods that show up on breakfast and lunch trays, and why they matter.

Pop quiz: Which of these potato facts is true?

A) Potatoes should always be stored in the fridge
B) Potatoes were the first vegetable grown in space
C) Potatoes are 20% water
D) Purple potatoes are not real

Answer: Potatoes were the first vegetable grown in space

From ancient roots to some truly out-of-this-world history, potatoes have range. Believed to have originated from the Andes (what is now modern-day Peru), potatoes made their debut in space history in 1995 aboard the space shuttle Columbia as the first vegetable grown in space. Now it’s earned a permanent place in school menus across Minnesota.

Potatoes might seem like a simple staple in cafeteria trays, but they have proven to be incredibly versatile. They grow in a rainbow of colors, including yellow, red, white, blue and purple. The different varieties add flavor and texture to meals:

Russet potatoes – starchy with brown skins, good for baking
Red potatoes – white, yellow, or red flesh with starchy or waxy texture
White potatoes – white or yellow flesh, sweet, mild flavor
Purple potatoes – purple flesh
Fingerling types – delicate skin with starchy, creamy flavor

Not to mention, they can be prepared in countless ways. Cooked as mashed potatoes or hash browns. Turned into french fries, tater tots or potato chips. And more!

Did you know? Potatoes are about 80% water and 20% solids.

That helps explain why potatoes cook up tender on the inside while still getting crispy on the outside.

Menu Spotlight: Cheesy Hash Browns

Cheesy Hash Browns

All that potato goodness comes together in a menu favorite – cheesy hash browns. Made with shredded potatoes cooked until golden and topped with melty cheese, this dish delivers a comfort-food classic that always hits. It proves that potatoes are more than a side, they’re a star!

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