Potatoes were first cultivated in Peru, over 4000 years ago, and not introduced to Europe until the Spaniards brought them in 1550.  According to legend, Sir Walter Raleigh introduced the potato to Ireland. Potatoes were first introduced to North America in 1621 at Jamestown, Va. And French Fries were first served at the White House under the presidency of Thomas Jefferson.

Classified as a vegetable, potatoes help contribute to the minimum goal of eating five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, recommended by the USDA’s Food Guide Pyramid. The National Cancer Institute recommends increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer.

One Serving-a 5.3 ounce, medium potato provides:
            45% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C
            21% of the Daily Value for Potassium
            10% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B
            6% of the Daily Value for Phosphorus
            6% of the Daily Value for Iron
            Three Grams of Fiber
            Only 100 Calories

And Futhermore, potatoes are fat and cholesterol free.

Recipes

Chili-Topped Potato
Top split baked potato with heated prepared chili. Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese and chopped green onion. Add sour cream as desired.

The Spud Club
Baked potato topped with ham and turkey cubes, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes.

Athenian Baker
Toss together chopped tomato, sliced olives, finely chopped red onion and oregano; spoon onto split baked potato. Top with crumbled feta cheese and perhaps a spoon of plain yogurt.

Idaho Taco
Top your potato with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and salsa

Potato Pot Pie
Prepare Cream Sauce with peas, carrots pieces, chicken chunks. Spoon over split potato; top with croutons.