Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a delightful twist on a classic dish! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners, it combines golden roasted potatoes with a tangy dressing and crunchy pickles. Its unique flavors and textures make it a must-try side dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of creamy yogurt, mayo, and fresh herbs adds an exciting flavor dimension to traditional potato salad.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, sandwiches, or serve it at potlucks—this salad fits any occasion!
• Crunchy Texture: The crispy smashed potatoes provide a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish beyond standard salads.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Crispy Smashed Potato Salad, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Potato masher or glass
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the potatoes evenly while allowing them to become crispy.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after roasting.
• Potato masher or glass: Helps achieve the perfect smash for even crispiness.

Ingredients

This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a tasty twist on a classic! Roasted golden potatoes, tangy dressing, and crunchy pickles deliver a crave-worthy side dish.

For the Potatoes

• 2 pounds baby potatoes (mini yellow potatoes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Dressing

• 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup kewpie mayonnaise (or regular mayo)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 1 dill pickle, finely chopped
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1-2 scallions for garnish, optional

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper (you may need 2 sheets if they’re small).

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot of well-salted cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for 7-8 minutes until just fork tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel. Transfer them to the baking sheet. Gently smash each potato to about 1/4 inch thick using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Brush with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 45-60 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

While the potatoes cook, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and parsley until smooth. Stir in chopped pickle and shallot. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Cover and refrigerate.

Step 6: Combine Potatoes with Dressing

When the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. Save some crispy brown potato bits for topping. Transfer all potatoes into a large bowl and gently toss with the herbed yogurt dressing until evenly coated.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with chopped scallions and reserved crispy potato bits. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Crispy Smashed Potato Salad!

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is not just delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it in various ways to suit any occasion or preference.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with Grilled Meats: This salad complements grilled chicken, steak, or fish, adding texture and flavor.
• Serve with Barbecue: It’s the perfect side for barbecue ribs or pulled pork, enhancing your outdoor feast.

In a Picnic

• Pack for Outdoor Dining: The salad stays tasty even when served cold, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.
• Include in a Bento Box: Add this salad alongside fresh veggies and fruits for a balanced meal.

For Meal Prep

• Make Ahead of Time: Prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge. It tastes better after the flavors meld.
• Serve with Egg Dishes: Pair it with breakfast items like scrambled eggs or an omelet for a hearty brunch.

As an Appetizer

• Offer as Finger Food: Serve small portions on toothpicks as a fun appetizer at parties.
• Garnish with Extra Toppings: Enhance presentation with crispy bits and herbs on top for added appeal.

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How to Perfect Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

To achieve the best results with your Crispy Smashed Potato Salad, consider these simple tips.

• Choose Fresh Potatoes: Fresh baby potatoes yield better flavor and texture than older ones.
• Don’t Skip Cooling: Letting the potatoes cool slightly before smashing helps them hold their shape during roasting.
• Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking while keeping clean-up easy.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the taste significantly.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add additional herbs like dill or chives for extra freshness.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a bit of water or more lemon juice until you reach your desired texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add freshness and crunch.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw balances the creaminess of the salad perfectly.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
4. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans offer protein and complement smoky dishes well.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges match nicely with the smashed potatoes’ texture.
6. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers provide creaminess that mirrors your potato salad’s richness.
7. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add brightness to your meal.
8. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside this flavorful salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Smashed Potato Salad, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not boiling the potatoes enough: If you don’t cook the potatoes long enough, they will be hard to smash and won’t get crispy. Boil them until just fork-tender for the best results.
• Skipping the drying step: Failing to dry the potatoes after boiling can lead to soggy results. Pat them dry with a paper towel before smashing for optimal crispiness.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you place too many potatoes on one sheet, they won’t roast properly. Make sure there’s enough space between them for air circulation.
• Ignoring seasoning: Forgetting to season your potatoes before roasting can result in bland flavor. Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides for a tasty outcome.
• Using cold ingredients in the dressing: If your yogurt and mayo are cold, it can affect how well the dressing mixes. Let them sit at room temperature for a bit before combining.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain potato texture.

Freezing Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

• This salad does not freeze well due to its creamy dressing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad unique?

This salad combines roasted golden potatoes with a tangy yogurt dressing, bringing new flavors to a traditional dish.

Can I customize my Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?

Yes! You can add bacon bits, different herbs, or even swap out pickles for olives based on your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my potatoes get crispy?

Make sure to dry your boiled potatoes thoroughly and give them enough space on the baking sheet before roasting.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for quick side dishes throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a delightful twist on traditional potato salads that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings and dressings, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!