Perfect Baked Potatoes

Note from Cheri: Baking a potato may be simple, but knowing the proper techniques can make all the difference in the world. We went to the experts at the Idaho Potato Commission for the inside scoop how how to do a proper potato!

4 Idaho Potatoes (5.5 ounces each) Toppings sour cream butter grated cheddar or Swiss cheese

Servings: 4 CONVENTIONAL OVEN METHOD Pre-heat oven to 450° F. Wash and dry potatoes. With a fork or sharp knife, pierce each potato 2 or 3 times. Place on cookie sheet or baking pan. Bake 50 to 60 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. MICROWAVE METHOD Wash and dry potatoes. With a fork or sharp knife, pierce each potato 2 or 3 times. Place potatoes in a circle on a paper towel, leaving a 1-inch space between each potato. Cook on HIGH for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork, turning once during cooking and removing any that are done after 15 minutes. Let potatoes stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Approximate nutritional analysis (not including toppings): 120 calories 0 grams fat 3 grams protein 27 grams carbohydrate 0 mg cholesterol 5mg sodium.