Why Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
If you’re tired of the same old potato salad and crave something with texture, flavor, and a Mediterranean twist, this crispy smashed potato salad is your answer a good meal prep idea for you. Combining golden, crunchy smashed potatoes with a tangy Greek yogurt dressing, this dish is a game-changer for potlucks, BBQs, or weeknight dinners. As a chef and recipe creator with over a decade of experience, I’ve perfected this recipe to balance crispiness, creaminess, and freshness. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Creamy Texture: The contrast of crispy smashed potatoes and velvety dressing is irresistible.
- Healthy Twist: Uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy mayo for a lighter, protein-packed base.
- Versatile: Serve as a side with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (or Yukon Gold): Their small size ensures even cooking and perfect smashing.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For achieving that golden crunch.
- Salt & pepper: Enhances natural potato flavor.
For the Creamy Dressing
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt: Adds tang and creaminess without heaviness.
- ½ cup Kewpie mayo: A Japanese mayo that’s richer and silkier than regular mayo.
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard: Balances creaminess with a sharp kick.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the dressing.
- 2 tsp red wine vinegar: Adds acidity to cut through richness.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: For depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup fresh dill + parsley: Brings herbaceous freshness.
- 1 medium cucumber (seeded and chopped): Adds crunch and prevents sogginess.
- 1 shallot (finely chopped): Provides mild oniony sharpness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Why This Works: Boiling potatoes before roasting ensures a tender interior, while smashing creates maximum surface area for crispiness.
- Boil: Cook potatoes in salted water for 7 minutes until fork-tender.
- Smash: Drain and dry potatoes, then flatten them on a parchment-lined tray using a glass.
- Roast: Brush with olive oil, season, and bake at 425°F for 50 minutes until golden.
Pro Tip: Reserve some crispy potato bits for garnish!
2. Whipping Up the Dressing
Why This Works: Letting the dressing chill melds the flavors and thickens the consistency.
- Combine: Whisk yogurt, mayo, Dijon, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust Taste: Add more lemon for tang or mayo for creaminess.
- Fold in Veggies: Mix cucumber and shallot into the dressing, then refrigerate.
Pro Tip: Deseed the cucumber to keep the salad from turning watery.
3. Assembling the Salad
- Cool Potatoes: Let roasted potatoes rest for 5 minutes to avoid melting the dressing.
- Combine Gently: Fold potatoes into the dressing until fully coated.
- Garnish: Top with reserved crispy bits, extra dill, and black pepper.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with grilled steak or a lemony chicken skewer!
Expert Tips for Success Meal Prep Ideas
- Vegan Option: Swap yogurt and mayo with vegan alternatives.
- Herb Substitutes: No dill? Use chives or basil.
- Crispier Potatoes: Space potatoes evenly on the tray to avoid steaming.
- Make-Ahead: Prep dressing and roast potatoes a day ahead; assemble before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
| Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving) | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Total Fat | 25g | 32% |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 62mg | 62% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I assemble the salad ahead of time?
A: Keep dressing and potatoes separate until serving to maintain crispiness.
Q: What’s a substitute for red wine vinegar?
A: Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice works beautifully.
Q: Can I use regular mayo instead of Kewpie?
A: Yes, but Kewpie adds a unique richness.
Q: How do I prevent soggy potatoes?
A: Dry boiled potatoes thoroughly before smashing and roasting.
Conclusion
This crispy smashed potato salad isn’t just another potato salad recipe—it’s a textural masterpiece that elevates any meal. With its crunchy potatoes, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs, it’s guaranteed to become your new go-to dish.
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