Have you ever tasted a dish that perfectly balances crunch and creaminess? Crispy smashed potato salad is one such delight. Imagine biting into tender potatoes that have been beautifully smashed and roasted until golden brown, then tossed with a zesty dressing that brings all the flavors together. This dish is not just a side; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes.
This crispy smashed potato salad is ideal for gatherings, barbecues, or simply as a delightful addition to your dinner table. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, it promises to be the star of any meal. Get ready to experience an explosion of flavor with every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Unmatched Flavor: Crispy smashed potato salad combines the rich taste of seasoned roasted potatoes with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that elevates this dish beyond your typical side.
Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance and taste, this recipe is straightforward. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, anyone can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this salad fits right in. Its versatility makes it suitable for casual meals or festive celebrations alike.
Healthier Option: Packed with nutritious ingredients like potatoes and fresh veggies, this crispy smashed potato salad is a health-conscious choice without sacrificing taste. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food without the guilt.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Small Potatoes: Choose waxy varieties like baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes for the best texture when smashed.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for roasting the potatoes to enhance their flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or dill adds freshness; use them generously for bold taste.
- Mayonnaise: A creamy base that binds the ingredients together; opt for homemade or store-bought based on preference.
- Mustard: Dijon mustard provides tanginess that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the entire dish with its acidity.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Prepare the Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the small potatoes thoroughly before placing them in a large pot filled with salted water.
Boil Until Tender: Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart.
Slam Them Down: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. On a lined baking sheet, place each potato and gently smash them using a fork or your palm until they are about half an inch thick.
Season and Roast: Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast them in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on edges.
Create the Dressing: While the potatoes are roasting, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped herbs in a bowl. Stir well until combined; adjust seasoning if necessary.
Toss Everything Together: Once the potatoes are done roasting, let them cool slightly before tossing them in your prepared dressing. Serve warm or at room temperature for best results!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional dressing if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Selecting Potatoes Wisely: For optimal results, choose small waxy potatoes as they hold their shape better after boiling and smashing than starchy varieties.
Avoid Overcooking: When boiling your potatoes, check them frequently after around 15 minutes. They should be tender but firm enough to hold their shape during smashing.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extras like bacon bits or diced bell peppers into your salad mixture for added flavor and texture diversity!
Make Ahead Option: You can prepare everything ahead of time! Roast potatoes earlier in the day then toss them in dressing right before serving to keep them crispy.
Enjoy making this delightful crispy smashed potato salad!
Mistakes to avoid
Not Using the Right Potatoes
Choosing the wrong type of potato can ruin your crispy smashed potato salad. Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape better during cooking. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, which tend to fall apart and won’t give you that perfect texture.
Skipping the Boiling Step
Some may think they can smash the potatoes without boiling them first. However, boiling helps to soften the potatoes and creates a fluffy interior. Be sure to boil them until fork-tender but not too soft, usually around 15-20 minutes depending on size.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet
When roasting your smashed potatoes, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer with space between each one for optimal air circulation, allowing them to brown evenly at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes.
Neglecting Seasoning
Failing to season your crispy smashed potato salad properly can leave it bland. Make sure to generously season both before and after baking. Use salt and pepper along with herbs or spices of your choice to enhance flavor; consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. The smoky flavors from the chicken complement the creamy dressing of the salad. Serve it on the side for a refreshing contrast to the savory meat, making your meal both satisfying and delicious.
For a picnic or potluck, this salad shines as a crowd-pleaser. Its crunchy texture and vibrant flavors make it an ideal dish to share. Pair it with other sides like coleslaw or fresh fruit for a well-rounded feast that everyone will enjoy.
This salad also works perfectly as a light lunch option. Add some leafy greens or spinach, and you have a complete meal that is both nutritious and filling. To elevate it further, consider topping it with sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
When hosting a barbecue, serve the Crispy Smashed Potato Salad alongside burgers or hot dogs. The crunchiness of the potatoes contrasts delightfully with the juicy meats, making it a hit among guests. This combination ensures a fun outdoor dining experience.
FAQs
What are the best potatoes for crispy smashed potato salad?
Yukon Gold and red potatoes are excellent choices for making crispy smashed potato salad. Their waxy texture holds up well during cooking, ensuring they remain fluffy inside while achieving crispiness on the outside when roasted.
Can I prepare crispy smashed potato salad in advance?
You can prepare this salad a day ahead of time. However, it’s best to store the dressing separately until serving to maintain the potatoes’ crispiness. Just mix everything together just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
How do I get my potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure your potatoes are thoroughly dried after boiling. Additionally, using high heat during roasting helps create that golden-brown exterior. Toss them with olive oil before baking for added flavor.
Can I customize the ingredients in crispy smashed potato salad?
Absolutely! You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like bacon bits, herbs, or even different vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers. Feel free to experiment with flavors that you enjoy!
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a delightful blend of crunchy, golden-brown potatoes and a zesty dressing that elevates any meal. This vibrant and flavorful dish is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a comforting side at dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your guests while keeping your kitchen stress-free. Get ready to enjoy an explosion of textures and tastes with every bite!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs small Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and wash the potatoes thoroughly.
- 2. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender but firm.
- 3. Drain and let them cool slightly. On a lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato to about half an inch thick.
- 4. Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- 5. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped herbs, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 6. Toss the roasted potatoes in the dressing once they’ve cooled slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: - Choose waxy potatoes for the best texture; starchy varieties may fall apart. - Customize with bacon bits or diced bell peppers for added flavor. - Ensure potatoes are well-dried after boiling for optimal crispiness.
