STEP 1
Peel potatoes, cut into 3-4 cm pieces and place them in heavy large pot. Cover with cold water. Boil over medium-high heat until potatoes are tender when pierced with fork, about 8-9 minutes.

STEP 2
Drain, reserving 11/2 cups of potato cooking liquid. Return potatoes to dry pot. Stir over medium heat until any excess liquid evaporates.

STEP 3
Add 6 tablespoons olive oil and mash until almost smooth. Mix in enough potato cooking liquid as needed to moisten.

STEP 4
Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm over medium heat, adding more reserved cooking water as needed to moisten.)

STEP 5
Transfer potatoes to large bowl. Drizzle with remaining tablespoon olive oil and serve. Garnish with fresh herbs.