Smashed Potato Salad Delightfully Creamy and Fresh

Name: Smashed Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds small potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red), scrubbed; 0.5 cup Greek yogurt; 0.25 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; to taste Salt and pepper; 0.5 cup celery, finely chopped; 0.5 cup red bell pepper, diced; 0.25 cup fresh chives, chopped; 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

October 8, 2025November 8, 2024 by Charlotte

Get ready to discover a new twist on a classic favorite! Smashed Potato Salad is delightfully creamy, fresh, and perfect for any occasion. With a mix of simple ingredients, you’ll learn how to create this tasty dish that will impress friends and family. No more boring salads — let’s make something fun and satisfying together! Join me as we dive into the steps and tips for this must-try recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

Unique Texture: This potato salad features smashed potatoes, providing a delightful contrast between creamy dressing and slightly chunky potatoes.
Healthier Option: With Greek yogurt replacing some of the mayonnaise, this recipe offers a lighter take on traditional potato salad without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: The addition of fresh vegetables like celery and red bell pepper not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional profile of the dish.
Make Ahead Convenience: This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, making it a perfect dish for meal prep or gatherings.

Ingredients

To make a delightful smashed potato salad, gather these simple ingredients:

– 2 pounds small potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red)

– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

– 1/4 cup mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

– 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped

– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

These ingredients blend to create a creamy, fresh, and tasty dish. The small potatoes give a nice texture when smashed. Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor, while mayonnaise makes it rich. Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar bring a zesty kick. The spices, celery, and bell pepper add great crunch and color. Chives offer a fresh herb touch, and the boiled eggs provide extra protein. This combination makes a salad you will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Potatoes

How to boil the potatoes

To start, take 2 pounds of small potatoes. I prefer Yukon Gold or Red for their flavor. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the pot. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium. Let the potatoes simmer for about 20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Check them with a fork to ensure they are soft enough. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Techniques for smashing the potatoes

Now, it’s time to smash the potatoes! Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Take each potato and gently smash it with the bottom of a cup or a potato masher. Aim for a slight flattening, but don’t break them apart completely. This step helps create the perfect texture for your salad.

Making the Dressing

Ingredients needed for the dressing

For the dressing, you will need:

– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

– 1/4 cup mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Mixing instructions for the dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients. Start by whisking together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Then, add the garlic powder and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy dressing.

Combining Ingredients

How to mix the potatoes with the dressing

Once your potatoes have cooled and your dressing is ready, it’s time to combine them. Add the smashed potatoes into the bowl with the dressing. Also, add in chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, and chopped fresh chives. If you want, you can include 2 chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.

Suggestions for tasting and adjusting seasonings

Gently fold the ingredients together. Make sure the potatoes get well coated with the dressing. After mixing, taste the salad. You might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar based on your preference. This step is key to ensuring the flavors shine through.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

For your potatoes, boil them for about 20 minutes. This time helps them get soft but not mushy. You want your potatoes fork-tender. After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly.

To smash the potatoes, use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. Press gently so you flatten them but do not break them apart. You want some texture, not a puree.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding spices can make your salad pop. Try using smoked paprika for a nice smoky flavor. A pinch of cayenne adds heat, while fresh herbs like dill or parsley brighten the dish.

For garnish, sprinkle extra chives on top. You can also add a dash of paprika for color. Whole hard-boiled eggs on top look great too!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One big mistake is overcooking the potatoes. This can make them mushy and hard to handle. Keep an eye on them while they boil.

Another error is not chilling the salad before serving. Letting it chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors come together. Serve it cold for the best taste!

Pro Tips

Use Uniform Potatoes: Choose potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking and consistency in texture.
Don’t Over-Mash: Smash the potatoes gently to maintain some texture; this adds to the rustic charm of the salad.
Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add ingredients like diced pickles or bacon bits for extra flavor and texture variations!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily swap out ingredients in your smashed potato salad. If you want to replace Greek yogurt, use sour cream or cottage cheese. For mayonnaise, try avocado or a dairy-free mayo. Both options keep the salad creamy.

You can also add different veggies. Consider using diced cucumbers for crunch or shredded carrots for sweetness. Even radishes can add a nice bite. Mix and match to find your favorite blend.

Dietary Modifications

If you follow a vegan diet, this salad can still shine. Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with silken tofu blended smooth. This swap gives you a creamy base without animal products.

For a gluten-free version, check your Dijon mustard and mayonnaise. Most brands are gluten-free, but it’s smart to read labels. Enjoy all the flavor without any worries.

Flavor Profiles

Get creative with herbs and spices for extra flavor. Fresh dill or parsley can give your salad a bright touch. For a spicy kick, add some cayenne or smoked paprika.

You can also try regional twists. Add a splash of lime for a Mexican vibe or some curry powder for an Indian flair. The options are endless; let your taste buds guide you.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your smashed potato salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Place it in the fridge right after serving. Your salad will stay fresh for up to three days.

Freezing Guidelines

Can you freeze smashed potato salad? Yes, but it may change in texture. The creamy dressing can separate when thawed. If you decide to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating Tips

If you need to reheat your salad, do it gently. Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts. Stir well between heats to avoid hot spots. For serving, I like to add fresh chives on top. They add a nice color and flavor boost.

FAQs

What is the difference between smashed and traditional potato salad?

Smashed potato salad differs from traditional potato salad mainly in texture. In traditional recipes, potatoes are diced or cubed and mixed with dressing. In smashed potato salad, you smash the potatoes before mixing. This gives it a chunkier, more rustic look. The smashed potatoes hold onto the dressing better, adding richness. You get a delightful mix of creamy and hearty bites in each forkful.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. While Yukon Gold and Red potatoes work great, feel free to try others. For a firmer bite, consider using new potatoes or fingerling potatoes. Each type of potato brings a unique flavor and texture. Experimenting can lead to new favorites!

How to make smashed potato salad ahead of time?

You can make smashed potato salad ahead of time easily. Prepare the salad a day in advance. Follow the recipe up to mixing in the dressing. Cover it and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to blend well. Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the salad.

In this blog post, we explored how to make a tasty smashed potato salad. We covered the right ingredients and step-by-step instructions to achieve the best texture and flavor. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like overcooking the potatoes. You can also try different swaps and variations based on your diet or taste. Whether you’re making it for a picnic or for dinner, this salad is a great choice. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious result

$To make a delightful smashed potato salad, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 pounds small potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red) - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1/4 cup mayonnaise - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced - 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped - 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional) These ingredients blend to create a creamy, fresh, and tasty dish. The small potatoes give a nice texture when smashed. Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor, while mayonnaise makes it rich. Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar bring a zesty kick. The spices, celery, and bell pepper add great crunch and color. Chives offer a fresh herb touch, and the boiled eggs provide extra protein. This combination makes a salad you will love! {{ingredient_image_1}} How to boil the potatoes To start, take 2 pounds of small potatoes. I prefer Yukon Gold or Red for their flavor. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the pot. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium. Let the potatoes simmer for about 20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Check them with a fork to ensure they are soft enough. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Techniques for smashing the potatoes Now, it's time to smash the potatoes! Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Take each potato and gently smash it with the bottom of a cup or a potato masher. Aim for a slight flattening, but don’t break them apart completely. This step helps create the perfect texture for your salad. Ingredients needed for the dressing For the dressing, you will need: - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1/4 cup mayonnaise - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste Mixing instructions for the dressing In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients. Start by whisking together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Then, add the garlic powder and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy dressing. How to mix the potatoes with the dressing Once your potatoes have cooled and your dressing is ready, it’s time to combine them. Add the smashed potatoes into the bowl with the dressing. Also, add in chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, and chopped fresh chives. If you want, you can include 2 chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness. Suggestions for tasting and adjusting seasonings Gently fold the ingredients together. Make sure the potatoes get well coated with the dressing. After mixing, taste the salad. You might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar based on your preference. This step is key to ensuring the flavors shine through. For your potatoes, boil them for about 20 minutes. This time helps them get soft but not mushy. You want your potatoes fork-tender. After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly. To smash the potatoes, use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. Press gently so you flatten them but do not break them apart. You want some texture, not a puree. Adding spices can make your salad pop. Try using smoked paprika for a nice smoky flavor. A pinch of cayenne adds heat, while fresh herbs like dill or parsley brighten the dish. For garnish, sprinkle extra chives on top. You can also add a dash of paprika for color. Whole hard-boiled eggs on top look great too! One big mistake is overcooking the potatoes. This can make them mushy and hard to handle. Keep an eye on them while they boil. Another error is not chilling the salad before serving. Letting it chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors come together. Serve it cold for the best taste! Pro Tips Use Uniform Potatoes: Choose potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking and consistency in texture. Don’t Over-Mash: Smash the potatoes gently to maintain some texture; this adds to the rustic charm of the salad. Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add ingredients like diced pickles or bacon bits for extra flavor and texture variations! {{image_2}} You can easily swap out ingredients in your smashed potato salad. If you want to replace Greek yogurt, use sour cream or cottage cheese. For mayonnaise, try avocado or a dairy-free mayo. Both options keep the salad creamy. You can also add different veggies. Consider using diced cucumbers for crunch or shredded carrots for sweetness. Even radishes can add a nice bite. Mix and match to find your favorite blend. If you follow a vegan diet, this salad can still shine. Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with silken tofu blended smooth. This swap gives you a creamy base without animal products. For a gluten-free version, check your Dijon mustard and mayonnaise. Most brands are gluten-free, but it’s smart to read labels. Enjoy all the flavor without any worries. Get creative with herbs and spices for extra flavor. Fresh dill or parsley can give your salad a bright touch. For a spicy kick, add some cayenne or smoked paprika. You can also try regional twists. Add a splash of lime for a Mexican vibe or some curry powder for an Indian flair. The options are endless; let your taste buds guide you. To keep your smashed potato salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Place it in the fridge right after serving. Your salad will stay fresh for up to three days. Can you freeze smashed potato salad? Yes, but it may change in texture. The creamy dressing can separate when thawed. If you decide to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. If you need to reheat your salad, do it gently. Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts. Stir well between heats to avoid hot spots. For serving, I like to add fresh chives on top. They add a nice color and flavor boost. Smashed potato salad differs from traditional potato salad mainly in texture. In traditional recipes, potatoes are diced or cubed and mixed with dressing. In smashed potato salad, you smash the potatoes before mixing. This gives it a chunkier, more rustic look. The smashed potatoes hold onto the dressing better, adding richness. You get a delightful mix of creamy and hearty bites in each forkful. Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. While Yukon Gold and Red potatoes work great, feel free to try others. For a firmer bite, consider using new potatoes or fingerling potatoes. Each type of potato brings a unique flavor and texture. Experimenting can lead to new favorites! You can make smashed potato salad ahead of time easily. Prepare the salad a day in advance. Follow the recipe up to mixing in the dressing. Cover it and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to blend well. Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the salad. In this blog post, we explored how to make a tasty smashed potato salad. We covered the right ingredients and step-by-step instructions to achieve the best texture and flavor. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like overcooking the potatoes. You can also try different swaps and variations based on your diet or taste. Whether you're making it for a picnic or for dinner, this salad is a great choice. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!$