Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Name: Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; ¼ cup chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives); Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Published: May 28, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this salad in no time.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy potatoes and creamy dressing creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats, picnics, or even as a light main dish.
Fresh Ingredients: The addition of fresh herbs and green onions adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings, bringing smiles around the table.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Crispy Smashed Potato Salad requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of the potatoes for that perfect crispiness.
Potato masher or glass: Helps flatten the potatoes without breaking them apart, maintaining their texture.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red varieties recommended)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt (for boiling)
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
¼ cup chopped green onions (both white and green parts)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add kosher salt and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 3: Cool and Smash the Potatoes

Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes until they are easy to handle. Transfer them to your prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or potato masher, gently press each potato until slightly flattened but still intact.

Step 4: Season and Roast

Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly across them. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

While the potatoes roast, mix together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, chopped green onions, and fresh herbs in a mixing bowl.

Step 6: Combine Potatoes with Dressing

Once roasted, let the potatoes cool slightly. Gently toss them with your prepared dressing. Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful salad.

As a Standalone Dish

Serve it warm or at room temperature for a hearty side that can be enjoyed on its own.

With Grilled Meats

Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or sausages. The crispy potatoes complement the smoky flavors beautifully.

On a Picnic Platter

Include the salad in a picnic spread along with fresh veggies and dips. Its texture and flavor make it a crowd-pleaser.

Alongside BBQ Favorites

This potato salad works wonderfully with barbecue dishes, adding a creamy contrast to spicy and savory meats.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Use it as a filling in wraps or sandwiches for added texture and flavor, making your meal even more satisfying.

Topped with Extra Herbs

Garnish with additional fresh herbs like dill or chives before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color.

How to Perfect Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

To achieve the best version of your Crispy Smashed Potato Salad, consider these helpful tips.

Choose the right potatoes: Use baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape when smashed.
Don’t rush the cooking: Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before smashing. This guarantees they will cook evenly when roasted.
Use high-quality oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the potatoes, helping to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Adjust seasoning: Feel free to modify salt and pepper levels according to your taste preferences. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add depth.
Make ahead: Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it separately. Combine everything just before serving for optimal freshness.
Add crunch: For an extra layer of texture, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

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

Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the creaminess of the potato salad.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the salad’s flavors while providing another delightful texture.
Baked Beans: The rich, savory taste of baked beans makes for a hearty addition to any meal featuring potato salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition, enhancing your plate alongside the potato salad.
Caprese Salad: A light Caprese salad offers a refreshing contrast with its tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Macaroni Salad: Another classic side that pairs well; its creamy goodness mirrors that of potato salad while offering variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Smashed Potato Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Using the wrong type of potatoes: Not all potatoes are created equal. Stick to waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the perfect texture. Starchy potatoes can become mushy.
Not boiling long enough: Under-cooking the potatoes can lead to a difficult smashing process. Make sure they are fork-tender before draining them.
Skipping the cooling step: Letting the boiled potatoes cool slightly is essential. This helps prevent them from breaking apart when smashed and allows for better crisping in the oven.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: If the potatoes are too close together, they will steam instead of roast. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation to achieve that crispy finish.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland potatoes. Be generous with salt and spices before roasting for enhanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the potatoes may suffer once thawed.
If necessary, freeze only the unseasoned, smashed potatoes for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread out the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between intervals.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Add a splash of oil if needed to keep them from sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add dressing just before serving for freshness.

What herbs work best in Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?

Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives complement this dish beautifully. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!

How do I ensure my potatoes get crispy?

Make sure they are well-seasoned and have enough space on the baking sheet while roasting. Flipping halfway through also helps achieve an even crispiness.

Can I customize the dressing?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different mustards or add ingredients like Greek yogurt for tanginess or lemon juice for brightness.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a wonderful twist on a classic. Its combination of crispy textures and creamy flavors makes it an ideal side dish for various occasions. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional ingredients like bacon or cheese—whatever suits your taste! Enjoy this versatile recipe today!

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