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There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty potato salad, but I wanted to take it a step further. One sunny afternoon, as I stared at a pile of freshly boiled potatoes, I had an idea: why not create a dish that combines that creamy, classic appeal with a satisfying crunch? Enter my Crispy Smashed Potato Salad.

Imagine tender, golden potatoes crackling under your fork, paired with a lush, herb-infused dressing that dances on your palate. This recipe not only redefines what potato salad can be, making it a showstopper at summer barbecues or family dinners, but it also caters to both comfort-seekers and those looking for a healthier side. With every bite, you’ll embrace a delightful contrast of textures that transforms a standard dish into something extraordinary. Get ready to elevate your potato salad game—this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is set to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen!

Why is Crispy Smashed Potato Salad a Must-Try?

Elevated Comfort: This dish takes classic potato salad and gives it a gourmet twist, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy dressing.
Simple Prep: With just a few easy steps, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Flavor: Customizable with your favorite herbs and dressings, it allows you to create a unique flavor profile every time.
Perfect for Summer: Ideal for barbecues or picnics, it’s a refreshing side that complements grilled meats or sandwiches wonderfully.
Nutritional Boost: With healthy options like Greek yogurt for the dressing, you can enjoy a satisfying dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Waxy Potatoes – Use Red or Yukon Gold varieties for the best texture and flavor.
• Olive Oil – Enhances crispiness while roasting; vegetable oil can be a good substitute.
• Salt – Be generous when salting the boiling water for maximized flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; substitute with fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the dressing; try Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Dijon Mustard – Provides a tangy kick to the dressing.
• Chopped Herbs (e.g., parsley, dill) – Freshness and flavor are key; feel free to mix it up with your favorites.
• Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor and a nice textural contrast.

Optional Mix-Ins
• Diced Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, celery) – For extra crunch and color.
• Additional Toppings – Consider crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta for an added layer of flavor.

This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen!

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Prep Potatoes: Start by washing your waxy potatoes thoroughly. Boil them in a pot of generously salted water for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Preheat Oven: While the potatoes cool, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that perfect crispiness!
Smash & Season: Place the cooled potatoes on a baking sheet. Gently smash each potato to about ½ inch thickness. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top.
Roast: Bake the smashed potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped herbs, green onions, and any additional toppings you desire. Stir until well mixed for a creamy, flavorful dressing.
Combine: Once the potatoes are crispy, toss them warm in the prepared dressing. This is vital for allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of lemon juice before serving for a refreshing touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, your Crispy Smashed Potato Salad stays fresh and delicious for your next meal.
Freezer: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the potatoes (without dressing) for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Reheating: To revive the salad, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps restore some of that lovely crunch!
Preparation Timing: For best flavor, prepare the potatoes and dressing separately in advance, and combine just before serving to keep it fresh and crispy.

Expert Tips for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Red or Yukon Gold hold their shape well, ensuring a perfect smash and crispy texture when roasted.
Cool Before Smashing: Let your boiled potatoes cool slightly to avoid burns; this makes them easier to smash evenly without falling apart.
Don’t Overcrowd the Sheet: For maximum crispness, ensure potatoes are spaced out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding prevents them from getting that golden crunch.
Flavor the Dressing: Experiment with different herbs and spices in your dressing for a unique twist on the standard Crispy Smashed Potato Salad.
Serve Warm: Toss the warm potatoes in the dressing right before serving; warm potatoes absorb flavors better, resulting in a deliciously seasoned salad.

What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the crispy, creamy goodness of this dish.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken adds a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s crunch.
BBQ Ribs: Succulent, saucy ribs create a perfect balance with the lightness of the potato salad. It’s a summer barbecue classic!
Fresh Garden Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens and garden vegetables offers a refreshing contrast, preparing your palate for the rich potato salad.
Steamed Asparagus: This tender vegetable brings a snap and vibrant color, making your plate both visually appealing and nutritious.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Juicy, zesty shrimp enhance your meal with seafood elegance, providing a delightful flavor interplay with the potato salad.
Crispy Flatbread: Add a crunchy side with warm flatbread for dipping or scooping up the creamy dressing—perfect for enjoying every last delicious bite!

These pairings not only highlight the crispy texture but also introduce new and exciting flavors, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and memorable.

Make Ahead Options

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to prevent browning. When ready to serve, preheat the oven and roast the potatoes as directed, allowing them to get that glorious crispy texture. You can also prepare the creamy dressing up to 3 days ahead and keep it in the fridge. Simply toss the roasted potatoes in the dressing right before serving for the best flavor and texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll be serving up a delicious side in no time!

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you tweak this dish to delight your taste buds!

Herb Explosion: Add different herbs like cilantro or mint for a vibrant twist on the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish’s freshness to new heights.
Creamy Alternative: Swap out mayonnaise for avocado or tahini for a luscious, dairy-free dressing. This brings a whole new creaminess while boosting nutrition!
Spice It Up: Incorporate jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty kick that will make your taste buds tingle with excitement.
Veggie Crunch: Toss in diced cucumbers or radishes for extra texture and refreshing crunch. They add a lovely contrast to the crispy potatoes!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for a savory depth. The creamy and tangy notes will take your potato salad to the next level.
Smoky Flavor: Infuse it with smoked paprika to add warmth and depth. This subtle smokiness pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes and herbs.
Nutty Flavor: Add toasted nuts like chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch. This will also bring a nutty depth to the overall flavor.
Seasonal Twist: Incorporate seasonal veggies like roasted beets or corn for a bright seasonal touch that can change with the harvest! This keeps the salad exciting all year long.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using waxy potatoes like Red or Yukon Gold. These potatoes hold their shape well after boiling and provide a delightful crunch when roasted.

How should I store leftover Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again while they are still at their best!

Can I freeze Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the smashed potatoes (without the dressing) for up to 1 month. Here’s how: first, let the potatoes cool completely, then spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy again!

What can I do if my potatoes are overcooked and falling apart?
Very! If your potatoes are too soft, you can still salvage them by carefully mashing them instead of smashing them. Mix the smashed potatoes gently with your dressing, and consider turning it into a creamy potato salad instead. It’s a delicious alternative that retains the spirit of the original dish!

Are there any dietary considerations with Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?
Yes! If you have specific dietary needs, like dairy allergies, feel free to substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative. It still gives that creamy texture while making it friendlier for those looking for healthier options.

What if I don’t have garlic powder?
No worries! If you don’t have garlic powder on hand, you can use fresh minced garlic instead. Just add a clove or two to your olive oil before drizzling it over the smashed potatoes, which will enhance the amount of savory flavor in your Crispy Smashed Potato Salad.