Peel potatoes. Slice in half lengthwise. Cut into 1- inch slices to make pieces about 1″x1″x1 1/2 ” To keep the potatoes from discoloring, drop them into a bowl of cold water. Drain. In a large saucepan, cook potatoes in boiling salted water to cover for 5 minutes; drain. At this point, potatoes may be held at room temperature several hours or refrigerated covered overnight.