Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. The most popular ways to prepare potatoes include:

1. Baked Potatoes: Simply wash and prick the potatoes, then bake in the oven until done. Baking potatoes is a healthy option because it retains most of the nutrients and is low in fat.

2. Mashed potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk and seasonings. Although mashed potatoes can be high in calories and fat due to the added ingredients, you can make a healthier version by using low-fat milk and olive oil instead of butter.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into cubes, toss with olive oil and seasonings, then bake in the oven until crisp. Roasted potatoes are a delicious, crispy, low-fat option when cooked with minimal oil.

4. Potato Salad: Boil potatoes, dice them, then toss with mayonnaise, mustard and seasonings to create a creamy salad. While potato salad can be high in calories due to the addition of mayonnaise, you can make a lighter version using Greek yogurt or vinaigrette.

5. French fries: Cut the potatoes into thin strips, then fry or bake until golden and crisp. While traditional French fries are high in fat and calories, you can make a healthier version by baking them with minimal oil or air frying them.

Nutritionally, potatoes are a good source of energy and provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium and fiber. They are also low in fat, cholesterol and sodium, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet. However, the way potatoes are cooked can significantly affect their nutritional value. It's best to choose cooking methods that preserve the potatoes' nutrients, such as baking, boiling or roasting, and avoid using excessive amounts of fat and sodium when cooking them.