If you love the comforting texture of smashed potatoes combined with fresh, tangy flavors, then you are absolutely going to adore this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe. It takes the classic potato salad to an entirely new level by adding a satisfyingly crunchy roast to tender, fluffy baby potatoes, all tossed in a luscious and herby dressing. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish for your next barbecue or a delightful weeknight treat, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to make and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white baking tray lined with white parchment paper, filled with many small pieces of smashed cooked potatoes. Each potato piece has a golden yellow inside with light brown skin edges, and they are unevenly shaped. The potatoes are sprinkled with black pepper, adding small dark specks on top. The texture of the potatoes looks soft and slightly rough, with some bits broken off. The whole tray sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of crispiness, creaminess, freshness, and vibrant herbaceous notes.

2 lbs baby potatoes: Choose small, waxy potatoes for the best texture that crisps beautifully while staying tender inside.
1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a rich, smooth coating to help the potatoes roast up golden and crunchy.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes and balance the dressing.
3/4 cup Greek yogurt: Gives the salad a creamy, tangy base that’s lighter than traditional mayo.
1/2 cup Kewpie mayo: Adds an indulgently silky texture and subtle umami that pairs perfectly with the yogurt.
2 tsp Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle, zesty kick to the dressing.
1/2 large lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad, adding lively acidity and freshness.
2 tsp red wine vinegar: A touch of vinegar intensifies the tang and helps balance the creamy components.
1 large garlic clove, minced: Infuses the salad with savory depth and aromatic warmth.
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: Offers a fragrant herbaceous note that feels like summer on your palate.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds color, freshness, and a mild peppery undertone.
1 medium cucumber, seeded and finely chopped: Brings crisp coolness and subtle wateriness to offset the richness.
1 shallot, finely chopped: Gives a delicate sweetness and mild bite that complements the herbs brilliantly.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425℉ and lining an extra-large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Boil the baby potatoes just until fork-tender, which usually takes about 7 minutes—don’t overcook them, as you want them to hold their shape. Drain and pat them dry, then transfer to the baking sheet. Using the back of a glass, gently smash each potato flat enough to maximize the crispy surface but still keep some thickness. Drizzle olive oil generously and sprinkle salt and pepper over the top for flavor. Roast the potatoes for 50 to 60 minutes until they’re gloriously golden and crunchy on the outside. Remember to save some of those crispy brown bits for garnish later!

Step 2: Make the Creamy Herb Dressing

While the potatoes are roasting, it’s time to whip up the salad dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Kewpie mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped dill, and parsley. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. The dressing should be creamy, tangy, and herb-forward—perfectly balanced to coat the potatoes beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare Fresh Vegetables

Before mixing everything together, make sure to thoroughly deseed the cucumber to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Then finely chop the cucumber and shallot, and stir them into the dressing. This adds crunch and fresh brightness to every bite.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Once your potatoes have cooled for about five minutes (just enough so they’re warm but not hot), gently fold them into the dressing until every crispy piece is luxuriously coated. The contrast of textures—the crunchy potatoes against the creamy, herbaceous dressing—makes this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe truly unforgettable. Finally, top with the reserved crispy potato bits, extra dill, and a few cracks of fresh black pepper for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe

A close-up view of a creamy potato salad served in a round wooden bowl placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has multiple layers, beginning with crispy brown potato skins on top, some slightly charred for texture. Beneath the skins are potato slices coated in a thick white dressing mixed with visible herbs and black pepper flakes, adding specks of green and black throughout. Scattered on the salad are fresh, bright green sliced scallions and small pieces of fresh herbs for a fresh pop of color. The overall texture is rich and creamy with crunchy and soft elements visible in each bite. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing with reserved crispy bits of potato adds delightful texture and a rustic look to the salad. Sprinkle some extra fresh dill and cracked black pepper to brighten the flavors and add a splash of vibrant green and speckled contrast. You can even add a light drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish, making it an ideal side for summer cookouts. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad, offering a comforting yet refreshing counterpoint to many dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe in individual mini mason jars for picnics or parties. Layer with extra herbs or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. You could also make it more elegant by plating the salad alongside grilled shrimp skewers and eye-catching edible flowers to impress guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the potatoes will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a day or two for optimal crispiness and texture.

Freezing

Because of the creamy dressing and fresh herbs, this potato salad does not freeze well. The texture of the potatoes and the freshness of the herbs and cucumber will change unfavorably after freezing and thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.

Reheating

If you want to bring back a bit of crispiness, gently warm the salad in a skillet over medium heat just until the potatoes regain some crunch—avoid microwaving as it tends to make the salad soggy. Alternatively, enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge as a refreshing treat!

FAQs

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie mayo?

Yes, you can substitute regular mayonnaise if Kewpie mayo is not available, but Kewpie adds a subtle sweetness and umami that elevates the dressing beautifully. You might want to adjust seasoning slightly to taste.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Small baby potatoes or new potatoes are the best choice because they hold their shape well when smashed and roast up nicely to get those crispy edges.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and swap Kewpie mayo with a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Keep the rest of the ingredients and seasonings the same for a delicious plant-friendly twist.

How do I prevent the cucumber from making the salad watery?

Be sure to remove the seeds from the cucumber before chopping it finely, as the seeds contain most of the water that can make the salad soggy. You can also lightly salt the chopped cucumber and then drain any liquid before adding it to the dressing.

Can I add other herbs or vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Fresh chives, tarragon, or basil would add wonderful flavors, and feel free to toss in some chopped radishes or bell peppers for added crunch and color.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a seemingly humble potato in a whole new light. The combination of crisp, golden potatoes and a creamy, vibrant dressing is utterly irresistible. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for sharing, impressing friends, or simply treating yourself to something deliciously comforting yet fresh. Once you taste it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed potato salad any other way!

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe