Potato

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

These potatoes and the fish can be roasted at the same time, using the upper and lower thirds of the oven.

The magnificence of a beautifully presented cooked whole fish is experienced far too infrequently today. Most people prefer the convenience of fillets, but fish has so much more flavor when cooked whole. Wrapping the fish in foil is a simple, effective way to lock in the juices.

Cheese production increased in the nineteenth century when dairy cooperatives were formed in Minnesota and Wisconsin; now, that area of the country is known for making outstanding cheese. In this recipe, white cheddar goes into a rich and creamy potato gratin that is a great substitute for — or, at a particularly lavish feast, a fine accompaniment to — mashed potatoes.

Two favorite spring salads get combined into one easy, lower-fat version.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Makes use of the microwave oven.

Plain old mash potatoes just may be a thing of the past. Nowadays, everything from turnips to kohlrabi end up partnering Idaho's most famous crop; we team the russets with rutabagas and parsnips. While this homey and healthful side dish is a must with lamb shanks, it also goes well with any number of meat dishes.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Raita is a yogurt salad, and integral--and cooling--part of an Indian meal. It can be prepared with raw and/or cooked vegetables (we use both here) or with fruit.

Buttermilk adds the tang, while bacon lends crunch to this dish.