When I fix mashed potatoes, I speed up the process by cooking the potatoes in the microwave. I peel them, cut them into quarters, put them in a microwave-safe bowl with water, then cover with plastic wrap I’ve poked holes in. I cook them for several minutes until tender, then mash, add butter and seasonings. This takes less time, and I only use one bowl from start to finish. —Judy Shocik, Cherry Valley, Massachusetts
Caramelized onions give a sweet and savory taste to this side dish from our Test Kitchen. Prepared with red potatoes, reduced-fat cheese and bacon, it makes a heartwarming accompaniment to any main course.
This clever side dish turns a garden-variety meal into a 'company's coming' dinner. To save prep time, make the roses ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Then top them with butter and paprika, and pop them into the oven shortly before eating.
In this recipe, dill adds a little spark to ordinary mashed potatoes. Plus the green flecks of this delightful herb make for a pretty presentation.—Annie Tompkins, Detona, Florida
