The delightful aroma of crispy smashed potatoes wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds with promises of crunch and creaminess. Picture golden-brown edges, tender centers, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs dancing atop this dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Imagine gathering around the table, laughter filling the room as you serve up a bowl of crispy smashed potato salad during a sunny backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner. This dish will have everyone clamoring for seconds, all while you bask in the glory of your culinary prowess. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crispy smashed potato salad is incredibly easy to prepare, offering a delightful flavor explosion in every bite
- Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper at any gathering, while its versatility means it pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can shine solo
- Enjoy it warm or cold—it’s delicious either way!
I remember making this crispy smashed potato salad for my cousin’s wedding, where it quickly became the star of the buffet table. Guests were raving about it all night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Baby Potatoes: Choose firm, small potatoes for the best texture; they become perfectly crispy when smashed.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and achieve that gorgeous golden finish.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives add brightness; don’t skimp on these for a vibrant taste.
Garlic Powder: For an extra kick of flavor; it elevates your potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the natural flavors; adjust to your personal taste.
Lemon Juice: A splash adds acidity; it brightens up the salad and balances the richness of the potatoes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Boil the Potatoes: Begin by placing baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Smashed Potato Prep: On a lined baking sheet, arrange cooled potatoes. Using a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact—aim for that beautiful rustic look.
Add Olive Oil and Seasoning: Drizzle olive oil over smashed potatoes generously. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly across them. Toss gently to coat each potato in that glorious oil.
Bake Until Crispy: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges—your kitchen will smell divine!
Toss with Fresh Ingredients: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before tossing with chopped fresh herbs and lemon juice. This step adds brightness that perfectly complements the rich flavors.
Serve Warm or Cold: You can serve this dish immediately while warm or refrigerate it for later. It tastes fantastic either way—perfect for leftovers!
Enjoy making this crispy smashed potato salad as much as you love eating it!
You Must Know
- The crispy smashed potato salad is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful experience
- With its crunchy exterior and creamy center, this salad is a fantastic way to elevate your meal
- It’s perfect for picnics but equally loved at family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then let them cool slightly before smashing. Bake them until golden and crisp while preparing your dressing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with herbs, spices, or bacon bits. You can swap out the dressing for yogurt or add diced veggies for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crispy smashed potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve ultimate crispiness, ensure potatoes are dry before smashing
- Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika for flavor depth
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and browning
Creating this crispy smashed potato salad became a family tradition after my cousin declared it “the best potato dish ever” at our last barbecue gathering.
FAQ
What kind of potatoes are best for crispy smashed potato salad?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well due to their creamy texture when cooked.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance, but bake just before serving for maximum crispiness.
How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Use vegan mayo or avocado instead of regular mayo in your dressing for a dairy-free option.
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible crunch of crispy smashed potato salad, where tender baby potatoes meet a delightful combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon. This dish is a showstopper for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot of salted water, boil baby potatoes until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- Smash the Potatoes: On a lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato with a fork or potato masher to create a rustic look.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Toss with Fresh Ingredients: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then toss with chopped herbs and lemon juice.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or refrigerate for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
