Pickled salad, crunchy potatoes, and rich ranch – this smashed potato salad is the ideal summer combination!
Smashed Potato Salad Was My Top Lunch Choice This Month.
As a simple girl from the Midwest, these are three favorite dining items for me:
- a shredded, chopped salad
- golden crispy French fries
- dripping, housemade ranch dressing.
This salad is perfect for anyone who enjoys that mix. It’s a twist on the popular smashed potato salad – but with more greens and less of a picnic-style potato approach. This variation keeps a bit of the crunchiness of the potatoes while also providing a delightful experience with all the tender-crisp bites.
I enjoyed this for lunch multiple times this month, and every bite transported me to a joyful place. I wish the same delight for you.
It’s zesty, bold, filling but also light and shredded at once. We introduced tuna one evening for supper (extra protein, suggested by my husband) and it was fantastic. Delicious. However, I’m sentimentally attached to it in its original form – just the pickled salad, potatoes, and creamy ranch together. My go-to trio.
Hope you enjoy this!
Watch Me Prepare This Salad
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Total Time:
40 minutesYield:
6 servings as a side 1x
Description
Pickled salad, crunchy potatoes, and rich ranch – this smashed potato salad is the ideal summer combination!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Salad
Dressing
Instructions
- Potatoes: Bring a pot of water to boil. Add salt and potatoes; cook until fork-tender (15-25 minutes, depending on size).
- Veggies: While the potatoes are boiling, chop all salad components.
- Dressing: While the potatoes cook, whisk together all dressing ingredients.
- Smash: Once the potatoes are done and cool enough to handle, carefully use the back of a flat glass to smash each potato (about 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick). Gently slide it off the potato in a flat motion to avoid sticking.
- Roast: Place the potatoes in a single layer in the basket of an air fryer; mist with avocado oil, season with spices, and spray again with oil. Air fry at 375 for 15 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. (You might need to do this in batches; this can also be done in the oven – see notes.)
- Serve! Mix the romaine, pickles, and onions with the dressing. Toss half of the crispy potatoes into the salad (they may break into smaller pieces while tossing), and reserve the rest to sprinkle on top. Crunchy, fresh, creamy, so very delicious.
Notes
The potatoes can also be baked at 375 for 30-45 minutes, until they reach your desired level of crispiness and golden color.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: potato salad, smashed potato salad
Three More Beloved Summer Salads
**Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Salad Dressing: A Delightful Culinary Experience**
Crispy smashed potatoes have emerged as a favorite dish for many, providing an enjoyable mix of textures and flavors. When served with a zesty salad dressing, they become a versatile dish that can act as either a side or a main course. This piece delves into the origins, preparation, and variations of crispy smashed potatoes with salad dressing, offering insights on perfecting this dish at home.
**Origins and Popularity**
The idea of smashed potatoes is thought to have originated in the United States, where the blend of crispy and creamy textures in one dish quickly gained traction. This technique involves boiling potatoes until soft, gently smashing them, and then roasting them for a crispy finish. This method accentuates the natural flavors of the potatoes while providing an enjoyable crunch.
**Preparation of Crispy Smashed Potatoes**
To make crispy smashed potatoes, select small, waxy potatoes like baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These types hold their shape well and possess a naturally buttery flavor. Follow these steps for excellent results:
1. **Boiling:** Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the potato size.
2. **Smashing:** After boiling, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Using a flat object like the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it flattens while remaining whole.
3. **Roasting:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs like rosemary or thyme. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.
**Salad Dressing Pairings**
Choosing the right salad dressing can elevate the flavor of crispy smashed potatoes. Here are some popular options:
– **Ranch Dressing:** A classic pair, ranch dressing adds a creamy, tangy flavor that enhances the crispy texture of the potatoes.
– **Balsamic Vinaigrette:** For a more elegant taste, a balsamic vinaigrette offers a sweet and tangy contrast that enriches the potatoes’ natural earthiness.
– **Garlic Aioli:** A garlic aioli brings a rich, savory flavor that complements the potatoes’ crispiness, adding a sophisticated twist.
– **Herb Yogurt Dressing:** A refreshing alternative, herb yogurt dressing combines yogurt’s creaminess with fresh herbs, delivering a light and zesty accompaniment.
**Variations and Serving Suggestions**
Crispy smashed potatoes are extremely adaptable and can be tailored to different preferences. Think about adding toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped chives for extra flavor and texture.
Serve the potatoes alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad. Alternatively, they can be enjoyed as a standalone meal, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
**Conclusion**
Crispy smashed potatoes with salad dressing create a delightful culinary experience that meshes simplicity with sophistication. By mastering essential preparation techniques and exploring various dressings and toppings, you can craft a dish that is both fulfilling and impressive. Whether presented as a side or main dish, this versatile meal is sure to become a favorite in your culinary collection.