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Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a delightful twist on traditional potato salad that features crispy, roasted potatoes tossed in a creamy dressing with fresh vegetables and herbs. This dish combines the comforting flavors of potatoes with a crunchy texture, making it a perfect side for barbecues, picnics, or any gathering. The unique preparation method ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and crunch.

Origin of Smashed Potato Salad

Smashed potato salad has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as home cooks look for innovative ways to elevate classic recipes. The concept of smashing potatoes before roasting them originated from various culinary traditions that emphasize texture and flavor. This version, which incorporates a creamy dressing and fresh ingredients, has taken social media by storm, becoming a favorite for its deliciousness and visual appeal.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 2 pounds baby potatoes (or Yukon Gold potatoes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ½ lemon (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 large garlic clove (minced)
• ¼ cup fresh dill (chopped)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 medium cucumber (seeded and finely chopped)
• 1 shallot (finely chopped)

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the baby potatoes and cook for about 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

3. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, place them on the baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.

Step 4: Season and Roast

4. Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

6. While the potatoes are roasting, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
7. Stir in the chopped cucumber and shallot.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

8. Once the potatoes are done roasting and have cooled slightly, fold them into the dressing until well coated.
9. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.

Cooking Tips

• Choose Uniform Potatoes: Select baby potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure that there is space between each potato to allow for proper roasting.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to modify spices based on your taste preferences; add more herbs or spices if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking Potatoes: Keep an eye on boiling time; overcooked potatoes can become mushy when smashed.
• Not Flipping Potatoes: Flipping halfway through roasting ensures even crispiness on both sides.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Allowing potatoes to cool slightly before mixing with dressing helps maintain their shape.

Serving Tips

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is best served warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing it with:

• Grilled meats like chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
• A fresh green salad for added nutrition.
• A light vinaigrette or tangy sauce for extra flavor.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Potatoes: A good source of carbohydrates and vitamin C; they provide energy and support immune health.
• Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics that promote gut health.
• Fresh Vegetables: Adding cucumbers and herbs increases fiber content and provides essential vitamins.

Why Everyone Loves This Dish

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is loved for its delightful combination of textures—crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside. The creamy dressing adds richness without being overly heavy, making it an appealing side dish for any occasion. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of main courses while also standing out as a flavorful dish on its own.

Interesting Facts About Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

1. One-Pan Wonder: This dish minimizes cleanup since everything can be prepared on one baking sheet.
2. Quick Preparation: You can have this dish ready in under an hour from start to finish.
3. Great Leftovers: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a day as flavors meld together!

Summarized Recipe

1. Boil baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender; drain.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C); smash potatoes on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil; season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; roast for 50–60 minutes.
4. Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, dill, parsley; stir in cucumber and shallot.
5. Fold roasted potatoes into dressing; serve warm or chilled.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is not just food; it’s an experience filled with flavor that brings joy to any meal! Enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering or as an easy weeknight dinner!

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