Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a game-changer for anyone who loves both roasted potatoes and a creamy, flavorful salad. The potatoes are boiled until tender, gently smashed, then roasted to golden perfection for a crispy exterior and fluffy inside. Tossed in a tangy, herby dressing with fresh dill and parsley, each bite offers a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious, it works as a side for summer barbecues, holiday feasts, or casual family dinners. The crispy potatoes soak up the creamy dressing beautifully, and the fresh herbs bring brightness to balance the richness. Serve it warm for ultimate comfort or at room temperature for a fresh picnic-friendly option.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 stalk celery, finely diced

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Wash baby potatoes and place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.

3. Transfer cooked potatoes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.

4. Drizzle potatoes with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

5. While potatoes are roasting, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, dill, parsley, celery, and green onions in a large bowl until smooth.

6. Let crispy potatoes cool slightly, then toss gently with the creamy herb dressing.

7. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad – A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic Side Dish

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is not your average potato salad. Instead of simply boiling potatoes and tossing them with mayonnaise, this recipe takes things to the next level by adding a unique textural contrast and an irresistible roasted flavor. The magic lies in the method: small baby potatoes are boiled until tender, gently smashed to increase their surface area, and then roasted in the oven until the edges become beautifully crisp and golden. Once roasted, they’re tossed in a creamy, tangy herb dressing that’s rich, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

This style of potato salad is perfect for those who love a balance between crispy and creamy. The crispy edges add a satisfying crunch, while the fluffy interior absorbs the dressing, creating layers of flavor in every bite. It’s the ultimate hybrid between roasted potatoes and a traditional salad, making it a versatile side dish for any occasion.

The Secret Behind the Crispy Texture

What makes this dish stand out is the smashing technique. By pressing each cooked potato until slightly flattened, you create more surface area that will crisp up in the oven. This method works especially well with baby potatoes because they have a naturally thin skin that crisps beautifully when roasted. The combination of olive oil, high oven temperature, and flipping the potatoes halfway ensures even browning and maximum crunch.

The roasting stage is where the transformation happens. While boiled potatoes are soft and tender, roasting them after smashing gives them a completely different personality. They take on a deep golden color and a nutty, caramelized flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the fresh, tangy dressing.

The Dressing That Brings It All Together

The dressing for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is creamy yet light, thanks to a combination of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. The mustard provides a gentle tang that cuts through the richness, while apple cider vinegar adds a refreshing acidity. Honey balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness, preventing the dressing from becoming too sharp.

Fresh herbs like dill and parsley are essential in this recipe. Dill’s slightly grassy, citrusy flavor works beautifully with potatoes, while parsley adds a fresh, earthy brightness. Green onions bring a mild onion flavor, and celery adds a subtle crunch that contrasts with the soft potatoes. Together, these ingredients make the salad feel fresh and vibrant, even though it’s hearty enough to be a comfort food.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

This dish fits in effortlessly with a variety of menus and occasions:

• Barbecues & Cookouts – It’s an ideal side for grilled meats, chicken, or fish.

• Picnics & Potlucks – The salad can be served warm or at room temperature, making it travel-friendly.

• Holiday Meals – A unique twist to replace or complement traditional mashed potatoes.

• Casual Family Dinners – Pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple protein for a balanced meal.

Because it’s both satisfying and flavorful, it’s often the first dish to disappear from the table at gatherings.

Tips for Making the Best Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

1. Choose the Right Potatoes
   Baby potatoes are best for this recipe because they have a delicate skin and cook quickly. You can use red, yellow, or a mix for visual appeal.

2. Don’t Overcook Before Roasting
   Boil the potatoes until just fork-tender. Overcooking can cause them to fall apart during smashing.

3. Smash Gently
   Use a glass or potato masher to press down until the potato flattens but stays intact. Too much force will turn them into mash.

4. Generous Seasoning Before Roasting
   Salt and pepper are key to flavoring the potatoes themselves before they even meet the dressing.

5. Serve Promptly for Maximum Crispiness
   The potatoes will slowly soften as they absorb the dressing, so if you want to preserve crunch, toss them right before serving.

Customizing Your Potato Salad

One of the joys of this recipe is how adaptable it is. While the original version is already delicious, you can adjust it to suit different tastes and occasions:

• Make It Lighter – Swap some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for extra tang and protein.

• Add Extra Crunch – Toss in crispy bacon bits, toasted sunflower seeds, or chopped pickles.

• Boost the Flavor – Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

• Go Vegan – Use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of honey for a fully plant-based version.

• Make It Spicy – Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Pairing Ideas

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is versatile enough to complement a wide range of main dishes. Some great pairing options include:

• Grilled chicken skewers with a side of fresh green salad.

• BBQ ribs with baked beans for a Southern-inspired feast.

• Herb-crusted salmon for a lighter, more elegant dinner.

• Veggie burgers for a hearty vegetarian option.

• Pulled pork sandwiches for a classic picnic spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Texture Heaven – Combines crispy edges with soft, fluffy centers.

• Bold, Fresh Flavor – Thanks to the tangy herb dressing.

• Easy to Make Ahead – Prepare the potatoes and dressing separately, then toss before serving.

• Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by both kids and adults.

• Year-Round Appeal – Works for summer picnics and cozy winter meals alike.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the potatoes will lose some crispiness over time as they absorb the dressing.

To refresh them, you can reheat the potatoes in the oven for 5–8 minutes at 400°F (200°C) before tossing with additional dressing. If you’re planning to make it ahead, keep the potatoes and dressing separate until just before serving.

Conclusion

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is the perfect blend of comfort food and fresh flavor. By taking the extra step of smashing and roasting the potatoes, you get a texture and taste that’s miles ahead of traditional potato salad. The creamy herb dressing ties everything together, making it irresistible at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a holiday spread, or just looking for a weeknight side dish that everyone will love, this recipe will not disappoint.

It’s proof that sometimes, a small change in technique can completely transform a classic dish into something unforgettable. Once you try it, you might never go back to regular potato salad again.