Potatoes Romano: Going on 20

DEAR SOS: Santa Monica Fish Co. serves a great side dish called Potatoes Romano. Any chance of getting the recipe?

HOWARD WISE

Los Angeles

DEAR HOWARD: Here it is from Enterprise Fish Co., the parent company in Santa Barbara. The old-fashioned dish has been a standard menu item for almost two decades, and it’s still going strong.

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Potatoes Romano

Active Work Time: 30 minutes * Total Preparation Time: 1 hour

2 1/2 pounds White Rose potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 large potatoes)

1 cup warm water

1/2 cup oil

2 1/2 cups nonfat dry milk

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 1/2 teaspoons white pepper

1 tablespoon seasoning salt

1 tablespoon salt

2 cups instant mashed potato flakes

1/4 pound grated Romano cheese

1 teaspoon paprika

* Cook potatoes in boiling water until just tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, reserving 2 cups cooking water. Set aside.

* Blend 1 cup warm water, oil, dry milk, bell pepper, garlic powder, white pepper, seasoning salt and salt in medium mixing bowl.

* Add cooked potatoes and reserved cooking water. Mix thoroughly. Add instant mashed potatoes and blend until smooth. Mix in half grated cheese. Consistency should leave slight residue on finger when touched.

* Scrape mixture into 2-quart casserole dish about 2 inches deep. Sprinkle with paprika and top with remaining cheese. Bake at 350 degrees 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and top is golden.

6 servings. Each serving: 580 calories; 1,677 mg sodium; 27 mg cholesterol; 24 grams fat; 69 grams carbohydrates; 25 grams protein; 1.23 grams fiber.

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Tablecloth from Room With a View, Santa Monica.