Crispy Smashed Potatoes Salad

 Looking for a unique and delightful twist on your typical potato salad? Try making a Crispy Smashed Potatoes Salad! This dish combines the comfort of traditional potato salad with the irresistible crunch of crispy smashed potatoes. It's perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a standout contribution to your next potluck. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make it, along with some variations and tips to customize it to your taste.

Description

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish featuring small potatoes that are boiled until tender, then smashed and roasted to a crispy perfection. Tossed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The combination of crispy potatoes with creamy dressing and crunchy veggies makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds (700g) baby or small new potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup chives, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

2. Smash and Season Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the potatoes and gently smash each one with the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Roast Potatoes: Roast the smashed potatoes in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. Assemble the Salad: Once the potatoes are crispy and cooled slightly, cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the roasted potatoes with cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, chives, and feta cheese (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat.

6. Chill and Serve: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Variations & Tips

• Herb Variations: Swap out parsley and chives for other fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Replace feta with crumbled goat cheese, shredded cheddar, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different taste.
• Add Protein: To make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked bacon bits, grilled chicken, or chickpeas.
• Vegetable Mix: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or corn for added crunch and flavor.

Tip: For extra crispy potatoes, consider parboiling them and letting them cool before smashing and roasting. The drier the potato surface, the crispier the result!

Conclusion

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Salad is a refreshing and exciting take on the classic potato salad. With its crispy, golden potatoes and vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're serving it at a barbecue, a holiday meal, or a casual get-together, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it uniquely yours!