Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe: A Zesty Summer Treat

My weekend garden harvest sparked an obsession with this crispy smashed potato salad that combines rustic charm and unexpected textures.

Potatoes straight from the soil carry an earthy richness perfect for reinventing classic side dishes.

Small red potatoes work magic when pressed and roasted until golden edges emerge.

Herbs from my windowsill garden add fresh brightness to the crisp potato base.

Salt and pepper become transformative when sprinkled over these delightfully crunchy potato fragments.

A creamy dressing weaves through each bite, connecting the warm potatoes with cool, tangy notes.

You’ll want to make extra—this recipe vanishes quickly at summer gatherings.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad That Brings the Crunch

• Transforms ordinary potatoes into crispy, golden bites with minimal kitchen effort in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile recipe appeals to all ages, combining kid-friendly potatoes with sophisticated herb-infused dressing for universal enjoyment.
• Offers flexible options like adding bacon bits, adjusting herb preferences, or modifying seasoning to match personal taste and dietary needs.
• Provides a nutritious twist on traditional potato dishes by using olive oil, fresh herbs, and balanced dressing instead of heavy cream-based alternatives.

What You Need for Smashed Potato Salad

• Yukon Gold Potatoes, Baby Potatoes: Starchy and creamy potatoes perfect for smashing and roasting, choose small uniform sizes for even cooking.

• Olive Oil: Helps create crispy exterior and adds rich flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Provides subtle, aromatic seasoning.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky depth and warm color.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall taste.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy base for dressing, creates smooth texture.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tangy, sharp flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings brightness and acidity.
• Honey: Balances and softens vinegar's sharpness.

• Fresh Dill, Fresh Parsley: Provides fresh, vibrant herbal notes.
• Green Onions: Adds mild onion flavor and color.

• Crispy Bacon Bits: Adds salty, crunchy texture for extra indulgence.

Steps to Prepare Smashed Potato Salad with a Golden Edge

Step 1: Boil Potatoes

Grab a large pot and fill it with cold water. Toss in a generous pinch of salt. Drop potatoes into the water and bring to a rolling boil. Cook until potatoes become fork-tender, around 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool down slightly.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Surface

Fire up the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Smash Potatoes

Arrange potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a sturdy glass or potato masher to gently flatten each potato. Press down with a light touch to create rustic, uneven surfaces.

Step 4: Season Potatoes

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle seasonings evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping potatoes halfway through. Watch for golden, crispy edges that promise delicious crunch.

Step 6: Whip Up Creamy Dressing

• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey
• Fresh dill
• Fresh parsley
• Green onions
• Salt
• Black pepper

Grab a small bowl and whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth and well combined.

Step 7: Combine and Garnish

Transfer roasted potatoes to a large serving bowl. Pour dressing over the top and gently toss to coat. Optional: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits and extra herbs for added excitement.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out the potatoes warm or at room temperature. Watch as everyone digs in with delight!

Tips That Keep Smashed Potato Salad Crisp and Fresh

• Boost Potato Texture: Smash potatoes gently with a flat-bottomed glass for maximum crispy edges without breaking them completely.
• Prevent Sticking Trick: Use parchment paper or a well-oiled baking sheet to ensure potatoes don't stick and maintain their crispy exterior.
• Customize Dressing Easily: Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use vegan mayo to make the recipe dairy-free and plant-based.
• Elevate Herb Freshness: Chop herbs right before adding to the dressing to maintain maximum flavor and vibrant green color.
• Maximize Crispiness Secret: Pat potatoes completely dry after boiling and before smashing to guarantee extra crunchiness during roasting.

Store Potato Salad Without Losing Its Crunch

• Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping them crispy and flavorful.
• Spread potatoes on a baking sheet, bake at 180C (350F) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness and maintain texture.
• Warm potatoes quickly in microwave for 1-2 minutes, but expect softer texture compared to oven reheating.
• Enjoy within 24 hours for maximum crispiness and best taste, as potatoes lose their crunch over time.

Pair Potato Salad with These Mains

• Pair crispy smashed potatoes with tangy goat cheese for a creamy, zesty complement.
• Select a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay to balance the potato's richness and cut through the creamy dressing.
• Add grilled chicken or salmon alongside the salad to create a complete, satisfying meal with complementary textures.
• Sprinkle fresh chives or tarragon on top to enhance the dressing's herbal notes and add a bright, fresh dimension.

Flavorful Spins on Classic Potato Salad

• Vegan Potato Delight: Replace mayonnaise with cashew cream or vegan yogurt. Swap bacon bits with crispy tofu or tempeh crumbles for protein-packed alternative.
• Herb Garden Remix: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil instead of dill and parsley. Add chopped chives for extra flavor complexity.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate version. Roast cauliflower using same seasonings and crispy technique.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and sprinkle with za'atar seasoning. Use Greek yogurt as base for dressing to create Mediterranean flavor profile.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe

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4.7 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy smashed potato salad brings Mediterranean zest to classic side dishes, dancing with herbed dressing and crunchy texture. Herb-kissed potatoes and tangy notes create a memorable plate you’ll crave at summer gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes:

• 1 kg (2.2 pounds) baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Dressing Components:

• 120 ml (½ cup) mayonnaise
• 120 ml (½ cup) Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh dill
• Fresh parsley
• 2 ounces (56 grams) crispy bacon bits (optional)

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Instructions

1. Submerge whole potatoes in a pot of cold, salted water, ensuring they are completely covered. Bring liquid to a rolling boil and simmer until potatoes become fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
2. Carefully drain potatoes and allow them to cool slightly for easier handling.
3. Heat oven to 220C (425F) and prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Gently position each potato on the prepared sheet and use the bottom of a sturdy glass or potato masher to flatten each potato, creating a rustic, slightly crushed appearance.
5. Generously coat the smashed potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Roast the seasoned potatoes in the preheated oven, turning them midway through cooking, until edges become golden and surfaces develop a crispy, crunchy texture, roughly 25-30 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, chopped dill, parsley, and green onions in a small mixing bowl.
8. Season the dressing with salt and pepper, adjusting flavors to personal preference.
9. Transfer the crispy potatoes to a serving platter or large bowl.
10. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the warm potatoes, gently tossing to ensure even coating.
11. Optional: Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs and crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
12. Serve immediately while warm or allow to cool to room temperature.

Notes

• Potato Selection Matters: Choose evenly sized waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for consistent cooking and best texture.
• Prevent Sticking: Ensure parchment paper is lightly oiled to stop potatoes from adhering during roasting.
• Temperature Control: Let potatoes cool slightly before smashing to maintain structural integrity and prevent burning.
• Customizable Seasoning: Experiment with different spice blends like za’atar, curry powder, or herbs de Provence for global flavor variations.
• Dietary Adaptations: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for lighter or plant-based versions. Use turkey bacon or omit bacon for reduced-fat options.
• Crispy Texture Tip: Pat potatoes completely dry before smashing to achieve maximum crunchiness and prevent steaming.
• Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare roasted potatoes and dressing separately, then combine just before serving to maintain optimal crispness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg