Smashed Taters

I'm so sympathizing with my neighbor. She and I (and her husband and I) have been debating election issues since Sarah Palin was announced as the Republican VP candidate. Poor M, she came over wearing a Palin supporter t-shirt just as I had received word of the Obama Waffles. And, just when I was PMS-ing to the max. She got an earful and the intense debates began from that point forward.

So, I was thinking about what she should do with all her pent up angst about Obama's election. I cheerily told her, "It's going to be fine," but I'm sure my euphoric bliss didn't really communicate just how sorry I was for her.

When Bush won again four years ago, I had also just lost my dad. Needless to say, it was a sad time in my life AND I was grieving for my dad too. With all that going on, I baked a heck of a lot of bread. I needed to knead and muscle and make something submit to all my anger and sadness. Bread was a good victim.

For my neighbor, though? I suggested Smashed Potatoes. Nope, not mashed potatoes. These are smashed and you can take a lot of satisfaction in doing so.

Yes, I'm a liberal, but I'm not without sympathy. McCain's last speech was heartfelt and classy--a side of him that I wish we would have seen more of AND the side of him that made me respect him in the first place. (Don't get me started on Palin. I'm still detoxing.)

Here you go. Smashed potatoes. They're a great side dish and you could top them like potato skins for a fantastic appetizer.

Both parties agree, smashing root vegetables is highly enjoyable.

Smashed Potatoes

Please figure Weight Watchers Points as you would red potatoes. Be sure to include any oil or toppings that you use.

small red potatoes--as many as your family will eat

sea salt

freshly cracked black pepperyour favorite herbs: rosemary, thyme, and/or marjoram are good-- herbs are optional

olive oil or nonstick cooking spray

Scrub potatoes. Cut any that are large in size, so that all are relatively the same size. Cook in a large pot of boiling, salted water until tender. Drain completely. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. On a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray or brushed with olive oil, place potatoes so that there's room for smashing between them. Smash each with a potato masher or a fork keeping them just rustically smashed, not mashed! Spray potatoes with nonstick cooking spray if you're watching your calories or drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with your favorite herbs and season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 25 minutes or until edges and tops are crispy.

You may top with bacon bits and cheese and serve with sour cream if you want to go completely potato gaga.