Mashed Potatoes with Shallots
4 cups diced potatoes (with skin or not) 
1 tsp salt
1 cup minced shallots
2 Tbs butter
1/4 -1/2 cup milk or potato cooking liquid
1/2 cup thinly sliced basil leaves, or 2-3 Tbs dried basil
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (opt)
salt and pepper to taste
Put potatoes in enough water to cover them and salt the water. Cover and bring to a boil on high. Reduce and simmer for 20 minutes until the potato cubes are soft.
Meanwhile, saute the shallots in the butter until soft (10 min). Mash together potatoes with the rest of the ingredients. Use just enough liquid to make the potatoes creamy and fluffy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.