Au Gratin Potato Pancakes

I can't stand the name "Au Gratin". I know it must be something foreign, but I immediately conjure up this image of rotting potatoes- the one you find at the bottom of the potato bag, that you reached in and smooshed and you can't get the smell off your hands, or out of the house for that matter. The ones that literally smell as bad as the worst poopy diaper ever! Ok... let's not even go there! Sorry... omit the stupid name and the mental image, and now visualize soft mashed potatoes with a sensational blend of spices and a lightly crusted surface. Much better! This was a grand-prize winner in the Simple and Delicious "Sensational Spuds" competition, and it already looked good, but that blue ribbon tipped it over the edge. I knew I would have to give this one a try. Their winners are usually worth trying out. This ended up becoming a favorite! I mixed everything the night before (for some reason, I am rarely in the mood that morning, just waking up I guess :) and it was so easy to fry up. They were really tasty- the girls wanted seconds. I really liked the mixture of spices! And this is a fabulous way to use up the leftover mashed potatoes! (Just set some aside after you have boiled the spuds, because it isn't supposed to have butter or milk.) Makes a great breakfast or side dish!

Au Gratin Potato Pancakes (NOT Rotten :)
2 cups mashed potatoes (without added milk and butter)
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon minced chives
1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon dried minced garlic
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Dash dried rosemary, crushed
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons canola oil, divided

In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Stir in cheese.
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls into oil; press lightly to flatten. Cook in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown, using remaining oil as needed. Drain on paper towels. Yield: 8 potato pancakes.

Nutrition Facts: 2 pancakes equals 267 calories, 19 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 68 mg cholesterol, 567 mg sodium, 16 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 6 g protein.