Mashed Red Potatoes with Garlic and Kale

You don't have to make these with red potatoes, but I love the way they look with the skins left on. The kale is tasty and adds a bit of extra nutrition in addition to looking appealing, and I found both my kids consumed it readily in this form.

2 lbs red potatoes, scrubbed and cut up for boiling
2 Tbsp butter (divided)
1 small head garlic, cloves peeled and minced
2-3 cups chopped kale
Milk
Salt and pepper

Boil the potatoes in a Dutch oven or large saucepan until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

While the potatoes cook, melt about 1 Tbsp of the butter in a skillet. Add the garlic and saute for about 1 minute, then add the kale and continue to saute over medium-high heat until nicely wilted. Remove from heat.

When the potatoes are done and rained, mash them with a potato masher. Stir in the remaining butter, the garlic and kale mixture, and enough milk to achieve a consistency you like. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serves 4-6.

Tarragon Corn Risotto

This is simple but delicious, and the corn kernels are little bursts of summer flavor in each bite. I think my kids each ate about six helpings of this. Optional: stir in some sauteed mushrooms after the risotto is cooked. I tried this with shiitakes and they were delicious.

1 Tbsp butter
1 medium shallot, minced
1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
3 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 1/2 - 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or substitute frozen off season)
1/4 - 1/2 tsp dried tarragon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 - 2 cups diced mushrooms, sauteed in butter (optional)

Melt the butter in the pressure cooker. Saute the shallot for a minute or so, then add the rice. Stir and saute the rice for about a minute, then add the stock. Stir well, then cover the cooker and bring to pressure. Cook on high pressure for seven minutes, then release the pressure. If excess liquid remains, simmer, stirring frequently, for another couple minutes. Stir in the corn, tarragon, and salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Stir in sauteed mushrooms if using, or reserve them for topping at the table.

Serves 4-6.