Smashed Potato Salad: 1 Amazing Recipe

Smashed Potato Salad has completely changed my picnic game. I used to dread making potato salad, always worried it would be too mushy or bland. Then, I discovered this incredible smashed potato salad recipe, and it’s a total game-changer! It’s so wonderfully creamy with just the right amount of texture from the smashed potatoes. The aroma of the fresh herbs and tangy dressing is absolutely divine. This is truly an easy smashed potato salad that everyone will rave about. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Potato Salad

This isn’t your average potato salad; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Here’s why I know you’ll adore this dish:

• Incredible Texture: The smashed potatoes offer a delightful contrast – creamy yet with satisfying chunks.
• Quick Prep Time: It’s a truly simple smashed potato salad that comes together in under an hour.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with veggies and made with a lighter dressing option, it’s a healthier choice.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an economical option for any gathering.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this fun take on a classic, making it perfect for potlucks.
• Versatile Flavor: It’s a wonderfully simple smashed potato salad that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone side.
• Deliciously Creamy: The homemade dressing ensures every bite is rich and satisfying.

Ingredients for Smashed Potato Salad

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this incredible smashed potato salad recipe. I find that using small to medium-sized potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, works best because they hold their shape nicely even after smashing. You’ll need about 2 pounds of these lovely spuds. For the perfect smash potato salad dressing, we’ll whisk together ½ cup of creamy mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of tangy Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of bright apple cider vinegar. Don’t forget the essential seasonings: 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, plus salt and black pepper to taste. Finally, for that burst of freshness and crunch, we’ll add ¼ cup of chopped green onions, ½ cup of diced celery, ½ cup of diced red bell pepper, and ¼ cup of fresh parsley. If you’re feeling adventurous, some crumbled cooked bacon is a fantastic addition!

How to Make Smashed Potato Salad

Let’s dive into making this delightful smashed potato salad recipe! It’s a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, grab a large pot and add your 2 pounds of small to medium potatoes. Cover them generously with cold water and toss in a good pinch of salt. Bring this to a rolling boil over medium-high heat and let those potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until a fork slides in easily. This is a crucial step in how to make smashed potato salad properly.

1. Step 1: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly and let them cool just enough so you can handle them without burning yourself.
2. Step 2: Transfer the slightly cooled, warm potatoes to a sturdy cutting board or a large bowl. Now for the fun part: gently smash each potato using the back of a fork or a potato masher. Aim for a texture that’s mostly smashed but still has some lovely chunks left for character.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together your creamy dressing ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to your liking. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour this glorious dressing over your smashed potatoes. Add in the ¼ cup chopped green onions, ½ cup diced celery, ½ cup diced red bell pepper, and ¼ cup fresh parsley.
5. Step 5: Gently fold everything together with a spatula or large spoon. Be tender with the potatoes to maintain some of that delicious texture. This is another key part of how to make smashed potato salad.
6. Step 6: Taste your creation! Adjust the seasoning as needed – maybe a little more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar for brightness.
7. Step 7: For the best flavor infusion, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Pro Tips for the Best Smashed Potato Salad

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for a truly memorable smashed potato salad recipe.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Golds or red potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape well when smashed.
• Don’t over-mash: Leave some chunks! This is what makes it “smashed” and gives it that wonderful texture contrast.
• Taste and adjust: Always taste your dressing and the final salad before serving, adjusting salt, pepper, or acidity as needed.
• Chill time is key: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect Smashed Potato Salad?

The real secret to a perfect, creamy smashed potato salad lies in the smashing technique and the dressing. Gently smashing warm, not hot, potatoes creates delicious nooks for the dressing to cling to, ensuring every bite is flavorful and rich. For more culinary inspiration, explore our collection of delicious recipes.

Can I make Smashed Potato Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic dish for meal prepping. You can prepare the smashed potatoes and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine them a few hours before serving, or up to 24 hours ahead, and refrigerate. If you’re looking for other make-ahead dishes, consider our Romanian Fried Meatballs.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Smashed Potato Salad?

The biggest mistake is overcooking or over-mashing the potatoes, leading to a mushy texture. Also, don’t skip tasting and adjusting the seasoning—it makes all the difference for a perfectly balanced flavor. For a similar flavor profile, you might enjoy our Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo.

Best Ways to Serve Smashed Potato Salad

This versatile dish is perfect for so many occasions! It truly shines as a sidekick to your favorite grilled meats, like burgers or chicken, especially during those warm summer cookouts. I also love serving it alongside pulled pork sandwiches for a hearty meal. For a truly delicious smashed potato salad experience, consider pairing it with barbecue ribs or even as a satisfying vegetarian main dish with a side of corn on the cob. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always gets rave reviews! For other great side dishes, check out our Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo.

Nutrition Facts for Smashed Potato Salad

Wondering about the nutritional breakdown of this delightful dish? Here’s a look at what you can expect per serving of this delicious smashed potato salad.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 25g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4g
• Protein: Approximately 5g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
• Fiber: Approximately 3g
• Sugar: Approximately 5g
• Sodium: Approximately 400mg

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and quantities used. Potatoes are a good source of potassium, which is important for blood pressure regulation; learn more about potassium and your health.

How to Store and Reheat Smashed Potato Salad

Properly storing your delicious smashed potato salad ensures it stays fresh and flavorful for your next meal. Once it has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and absorbing other odors in the refrigerator. You can keep your smashed potato salad in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you have a large batch, perhaps made with that irresistible smashed potato salad with bacon, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing, becoming a bit softer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your chilled or frozen smashed potato salad, the best way to reheat it is gently. If it’s just been in the fridge, you can serve it cold or let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes to take the chill off. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, you can warm it slightly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until just warmed through. Avoid overheating, as this can make the potatoes mushy. For another great recipe with potatoes, try our Persian Chicken Recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smashed Potato Salad

What is smashed potato salad?

Smashed potato salad is a creative twist on the classic side dish where cooked potatoes are gently smashed before being mixed with dressing and other ingredients. This method creates a wonderful texture, with some creamy mashed potato elements and some delightful potato chunks, making it a truly unique experience.

Can I use different types of potatoes for smashed potato salad?

Yes, you absolutely can! While Yukon Gold or red potatoes are recommended for their texture, you can also experiment with other waxy or all-purpose potatoes. Just be mindful that starchy potatoes like Russets might become too mushy when smashed, so waxy varieties are generally preferred for this smashed potato salad recipe.

What makes this smashed potato salad recipe so creamy?

The creaminess comes from a combination of factors in the dressing, particularly the mayonnaise and the smashed texture of the potatoes themselves. The smashing process creates more surface area for the dressing to adhere to, ensuring a rich, coating consistency that makes this a truly delicious smashed potato salad.

How do I make my smashed potato salad spicier?

To add a spicy kick to your smashed potato salad, you can incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers into the mix along with the other vegetables. A dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred into the dressing also works wonderfully for a customizable heat level. For a spicy option, consider our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole.

Variations of Smashed Potato Salad You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll want to explore all the exciting ways to customize this dish! I love experimenting with different flavor profiles, and this smashed potato salad recipe is perfect for it. For a delightful Mediterranean twist, try adding crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, a garlic smashed potato salad with extra roasted garlic cloves and a sprinkle of fresh chives is absolutely divine. For a lighter, tangier option, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and mix in fresh dill and lemon zest.

You can also play with the cooking method! Instead of boiling, try roasting the potatoes first for a deeper, caramelized flavor before smashing them. This method adds another layer of deliciousness to your smashed fingerling potato salad. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your personal favorite combination! For a similar sheet pan approach, check out our Teriyaki Chicken Sheet Pan Supper.

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