We can’t stop making this Smashed Potato Salad
We can’t stop making this Smashed Potato Salad is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by HungryHappens on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 1 hr 2 min | Total: 1 hr 42 min
Cost: $4.48 total, $1.12 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Small Wax Potatoes (scrubbed, keep skins on)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for tossing potatoes before roasting)
- 0.5 cup Greek Yogurt (full‑fat for creaminess)
- 0.25 cup Mayonnaise (regular or light)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (smooth)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon White Wine Vinegar (optional for extra tang)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 0.5 cup Cucumber (seedless, diced)
- 1 small Shallot (minced)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (chopped)
Instructions
Wash and Trim Potatoes
Rinse the small wax potatoes under cold water, scrub any dirt off, and pat dry. If any potatoes are unusually large, cut them in half so all pieces are similar size.
Time: PT5M
Boil Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water by 1 inch, add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until a fork slides in with only slight resistance, about 15 minutes.
Time: PT15M
Drain and Steam‑Off
Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for 2 minutes to release excess steam.
Time: PT2M
Preheat Oven
While the potatoes are draining, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 425°F
Smash Potatoes
Arrange the boiled potatoes on a parchment‑lined baking sheet. Using the back of a fork or a potato masher, press each potato until it flattens to about ½‑inch thickness, keeping them in one piece.
Time: PT5M
Season and Oil
Drizzle 2 Tbsp olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Toss lightly to coat evenly.
Time: PT2M
Roast Potatoes
Place the sheet in the oven and roast for 15 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through, until edges are golden and crisp.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 425°F
Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, ½ tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Add Fresh Veggies and Herbs
Stir diced cucumber, minced shallot, chopped parsley, and dill into the dressing.
Time: PT2M
Combine Potatoes and Dressing
When the potatoes are golden, remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a large bowl and gently toss with the prepared dressing until each piece is coated.
Time: PT5M
Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Time: PT30M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 10 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (if using gluten‑free mayo)
Allergens: Milk, Egg, Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Small Wax Potatoes: red potatoes, new potatoes
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil, canola oil
- Instead of Greek Yogurt: plain yogurt, sour cream
- Instead of Mayonnaise: vegan mayo
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: spicy brown mustard
- Instead of Lemon Juice: apple cider vinegar (less lemon flavor)
- Instead of White Wine Vinegar: apple cider vinegar
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Cucumber: zucchini
- Instead of Shallot: red onion (1 tbsp)
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: cilantro
- Instead of Fresh Dill: dried dill (1 tsp)
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (optional)
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Fork or Potato Masher
- Oven
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil potatoes until just fork‑tender (do not overcook).
- Smash potatoes evenly to a uniform thickness.
- Roast until golden and crisp for texture contrast.
- Balance the dressing with lemon juice, vinegar, and mustard.
- Toss potatoes while still warm to allow the dressing to soak in.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a mix of red and yellow waxy potatoes for visual appeal.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing for a subtle smoky note.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds just before serving.
Troubleshooting
Potatoes become mushy after boiling.
Boil only until fork‑tender; start timing as soon as water returns to a boil and test a piece early.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin with a splash of milk, extra lemon juice, or a little water until desired consistency.
Roasted potatoes are not crispy.
Make sure the oven is fully preheated, use a high‑heat setting (425°F), and avoid crowding the pan.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3‑4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes after freezing.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours after serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the yogurt‑mayo dressing up to 24 hours ahead and store refrigerated.
- Roasted smashed potatoes can be made a day ahead; re‑heat briefly before tossing with dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of smashed potato salad in American cuisine?
Smashed potato salad blends the classic American potato salad tradition with the modern trend of smashed roasted potatoes. It reflects the evolution of comfort food in the United States, where home cooks sought a lighter, tangier alternative to the heavy mayo‑laden versions popular in the mid‑20th century.
What are the traditional regional variations of potato salad in the United States?
In the Midwest, potato salad often features a creamy mayo base with mustard and celery. The Southern version adds sweet pickles and a hint of paprika, while the West Coast favors a vinaigrette or yogurt‑based dressing with fresh herbs, similar to this smashed potato salad.
How is potato salad traditionally served at American summer barbecues?
At a typical American barbecue, potato salad is served chilled in a large serving bowl, often alongside coleslaw, baked beans, and grilled meats. It is presented as a cool, refreshing side that balances the heat of the grill.
What occasions or celebrations is smashed potato salad associated with in American culture?
Smashed potato salad is popular at picnics, Fourth of July gatherings, family reunions, and casual dinner parties. Its bright flavors make it a crowd‑pleaser for outdoor events where a fresh side is desired.
What other American dishes pair well with smashed potato salad?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, hot dogs, smoked ribs, or a simple grilled fish. The acidity from the yogurt‑lemon dressing cuts through rich, fatty proteins, creating a balanced plate.
What makes smashed potato salad special compared to classic potato salad?
The key difference is the texture: potatoes are first boiled, then smashed and roasted, giving a crispy exterior while staying fluffy inside. The yogurt‑mayo dressing adds tang and reduces overall fat compared to a pure mayo dressing.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smashed potato salad?
Common errors include over‑boiling the potatoes, which makes them fall apart; not smashing them evenly, leading to uneven crispness; and using too much dressing, which can drown the potatoes. Follow the critical steps for timing and texture.
Why does this recipe use both Greek yogurt and mayonnaise instead of just one?
Greek yogurt provides a tangy, protein‑rich base while mayonnaise adds richness and smoothness. The combination balances flavor, texture, and nutrition, giving the salad a creamy mouthfeel without being overly heavy.
Can I make smashed potato salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the dressing up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Roast the smashed potatoes, let them cool, then store them in an airtight container. Combine with the dressing just before serving, or toss and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
What does the YouTube channel HungryHappens specialize in?
The YouTube channel HungryHappens focuses on quick, budget‑friendly meals that emphasize nutrition and everyday cooking hacks. The host often highlights why certain ingredients, like potatoes, are great staples for healthy, affordable meals.
How does the YouTube channel HungryHappens' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
HungryHappens blends nutrition science with simple home‑cooking techniques, often swapping high‑fat ingredients for lighter alternatives while keeping flavor. This pragmatic, health‑first angle sets it apart from channels that prioritize indulgence over everyday practicality.
Last updated: August 31, 2026






