smashed potato salad w creamy yogurt dill dressing and pickles! recipe below ️
smashed potato salad w creamy yogurt dill dressing and pickles! recipe below ⬇️ is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by mallorythedietitian on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $4.92 total, $0.82 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Small Red Potatoes (washed, unpeeled; use baby red or Yukon Gold for best texture)
- 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt (for boiling water and seasoning)
- 0.25 cup Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
- 0.25 cup Dill Pickles (finely diced; use crunchy kosher dill pickles)
- 0.5 cup Greek Yogurt (plain, full‑fat for creaminess (low‑fat optional))
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (adds tang)
- 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar (for acidity)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (adds richness to dressing)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Instructions
Boil Potatoes
Place the washed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 1 tablespoon kosher salt, bring to a boil over medium‑high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until fork‑tender, about 12–15 minutes.
Time: PT15M
Drain and Cool
Drain the potatoes in a colander, let steam off for 2 minutes, then transfer to a cutting board and allow to cool slightly (or rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking).
Time: PT2M
Smash Potatoes
Using a potato masher or the flat side of a fork, gently press each potato to flatten to about ½‑inch thickness, leaving some larger chunks for texture.
Time: PT5M
Make Yogurt Dressing
In a mixing bowl combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Time: PT5M
Mix Salad
Add the smashed potatoes to the bowl with the dressing, then fold in the chopped fresh dill and diced dill pickles. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Chill Before Serving
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold.
Time: PT30M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 200
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 5 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Low‑Fat (if low‑fat yogurt is used)
Allergens: Dairy (Greek yogurt), Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Small Red Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes, Red potatoes
- Instead of Kosher Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Fresh Dill: Dried dill (½ tsp)
- Instead of Dill Pickles: Sweet pickles, Capers
- Instead of Greek Yogurt: Regular plain yogurt, Sour cream
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard
- Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar: White wine vinegar
- Instead of Olive Oil: Vegetable oil
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Potato Masher or Fork
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Serving Dish
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil potatoes until fork‑tender but still firm enough to hold shape.
- Gently smash potatoes to create a flat, textured surface.
- Whisk the yogurt dressing until smooth before coating the potatoes.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use warm potatoes for a smoother coating; the dressing adheres better.
- For extra zing, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing.
- Finely chop dill just before mixing to preserve its bright flavor.
Troubleshooting
Potatoes are too watery after boiling.
Drain thoroughly and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel before smashing.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin with a splash of milk, water, or additional olive oil until desired consistency.
Pickles make the salad overly salty.
Rinse diced pickles briefly or use low‑sodium pickles.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes when frozen.
Room temperature: Can sit out for up to 2 hours; keep chilled for safety.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the yogurt dressing up to 24 hours in advance and store refrigerated.
- You can smash the potatoes and keep them in a sealed container; add dressing just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of potato salad in American cuisine?
Potato salad has been a staple of American picnics and barbecues since the late 19th century, evolving from European boiled‑potato salads. It represents comfort food that brings families together at outdoor gatherings.
What are the traditional regional variations of potato salad in the United States?
In the Midwest, creamy mayo‑based salads dominate; the South favors mustard‑spiked or sweet‑pickle versions; the Pacific Northwest often incorporates fresh herbs and vinaigrette. This smashed‑potato, yogurt‑dressed version offers a lighter, protein‑rich twist.
How is potato salad traditionally served in American summer gatherings?
It is typically served chilled as a side dish alongside grilled meats, burgers, or fried chicken, often placed on a buffet table with other picnic staples like coleslaw and baked beans.
What occasions or celebrations is potato salad traditionally associated with in American culture?
Potato salad is a go‑to side for Fourth of July barbecues, family reunions, potlucks, and backyard cookouts, symbolizing casual, share‑able comfort food.
What makes this smashed potato salad special or unique in American cuisine?
The secret step of gently smashing the boiled potatoes creates a larger surface area for the yogurt dressing, giving each bite a creamy coating while retaining a pleasant potato texture, setting it apart from typical chunk‑only salads.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smashed potato salad?
Common errors include over‑cooking the potatoes so they fall apart, over‑mashing which eliminates texture, and adding too much dressing which makes the salad soggy. Keep potatoes firm, smash lightly, and dress gradually.
Why does this recipe use a yogurt‑based dressing instead of traditional mayonnaise?
Yogurt provides a tangy, lower‑fat alternative that still delivers creaminess, aligning with Mallory the Dietitian’s focus on healthier swaps while preserving the classic richness of a potato salad.
Can I make this smashed potato salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the dressing and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine just before serving and keep the finished salad chilled.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making smashed potato salad?
The potatoes should be flattened to about ½‑inch thickness with visible edges, not completely pureed. The salad should have a glossy coating from the yogurt dressing and specks of green dill and pink pickle bits.
What does the YouTube channel Mallory the Dietitian specialize in?
The YouTube channel Mallory the Dietitian focuses on evidence‑based nutrition, balanced meal ideas, and healthier twists on classic comfort foods, often emphasizing whole‑food ingredients and portion control.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Mallory the Dietitian?
Mallory the Dietitian’s cooking philosophy blends nutrition science with practical home cooking, offering clear, step‑by‑step tutorials that prioritize nutrient density, flavor, and accessibility for everyday cooks.
Last updated: August 31, 2026






