Tic-Tac-Toe Potatoes

Instructions

• Wash the potatoes well, then cut each one in half lengthwise. With a sharp knife, score the potato flesh in a criss-cross pattern, as deeply as possible without cutting through the skin. Arrange in a baking dish, cut-side up. Have your child brush the cut surfaces evenly with the melted butter, then sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper. Bake, uncovered, at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Sprinkle the potatoes with some paprika, then brush with a bit more butter and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned on top.

• Note: Peas and carrots, incidentally, make excellent tic-tac-toe markers.