Name: Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 pounds baby potatoes, scrubbed clean; Kosher salt, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably 2% or whole milk); 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 teaspoons honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon); 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar; 1/4 cup finely chopped chives, plus more for garnish; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish; 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber (Persian cucumbers recommended); 1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles; 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion

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If you’re craving a side dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe will be your new go-to. Imagine crispy edges on tender smashed baby potatoes combined with the bright zing of cucumbers, pickles, and red onions, all coated in a luscious, tangy tzatziki-style dressing rich with fresh herbs. It’s that perfect balance between comforting and refreshing, making it an absolute hit at summer BBQs, picnics, or just a weeknight dinner that needs a little extra love. Once you make this, honestly, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for ordinary potato salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of small white bowls and dishes arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding a different ingredient. In the center is a larger white bowl filled with many small, light brown potatoes. Surrounding it are bowls and dishes with chopped pickles, olive oil, finely chopped red onions, minced garlic, black pepper, honey, cayenne powder mixed with garlic powder, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped cucumbers, fresh dill, chopped chives, yellow mustard, red vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. The colors are mostly natural earth tones with green from the herbs and cucumbers, white creams, and the yellow of the potatoes and mustard. Everything is neat and clearly separated, laid out for preparation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but come together to create layers of flavor and texture that simply sing. Each component plays a role, whether it’s ensuring crispiness, adding tang, or bringing in fresh herbal notes that lift the whole salad.

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided: The base fat for roasting to get those golden, crispy edges the potatoes deserve.
2 pounds baby potatoes, scrubbed clean: Small potatoes roast evenly and smash beautifully for texture.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning inside and out, bringing out natural flavors.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky depth without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: A smoky hint that gives warmth and color.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly cracked for a sharp finish.
2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole-milk preferred): Creamy and tangy, it’s the perfect base for the dressing’s freshness.
1/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the dressing.
2 teaspoons honey: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity beautifully.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides subtle heat and complexity.
1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced: Fresh garlic is a game-changer for that authentic tzatziki vibe.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens things up with a zesty punch.
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar: Adds tang and depth to complement the lemon.
1/4 cup finely chopped chives: Mild onion flavor, fresh and delicate in the dressing and garnish.
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill: The herb that brings that classic tzatziki-inspired freshness.
1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber (Persian cucumbers preferred): Crunchy and hydrating, perfect for the salad’s crisp bite.
1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles: Adds a welcomed tang and texture contrast.
1/3 cup finely chopped red onion: Sharpness that wakes up the palate without overwhelming.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 425ºF and lightly brushing a large sheet pan with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Get your baby potatoes washed and ready, then place them in a large pot filled with cold water seasoned generously with 1 to 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. This step seasons the potatoes from within as they cook. Bring the pot to a boil with the lid on, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, roughly 15 to 20 minutes. This makes smashing easy while keeping the inside creamy.

Step 2: Smash and Season the Potatoes

Drain your potatoes and allow them to cool just enough to handle. Spread them evenly on your prepared pan and gently press each one down with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to about 1/4 inch thick. Pro tip: place parchment between the glass and potato to avoid sticking. Then, combine the remaining olive oil with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper, and brush this mixture over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle lightly with salt to ensure every bite sings.

Step 3: Roast to Crispy Perfection

Slide the potatoes into the oven and roast for 40 to 50 minutes until the edges are gloriously crisp and golden. The contrast between crunchy exterior and soft interior is what makes this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe truly stand out.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing

While the potatoes roast, mix your Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, chopped chives, and dill in a large bowl. This dressing brings a cool, creamy, herbaceous brightness that perfectly balances the hearty potatoes.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Let the potatoes rest to cool, then cut any larger pieces into bite-sized chunks. Toss them gently with your dressing along with the diced cucumber, pickles, and red onion. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — a little extra salt or pepper can really make a difference here. Your salad is now ready to impress!

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe

A white speckled bowl holds three main layers: the bottom layer is a creamy white sauce mixed with tiny pieces of green herbs and small bits of purple onion, spread evenly across the bowl; on the right side, crispy golden-brown potato slices with rough, browned edges are stacked in a small pile, showing texture from the cooked skin; on the left side, fresh, chopped green cucumber pieces are arranged in a loose pile, contrasting with the warm colors of the potatoes. A white spatula rests on the sauce under the potatoes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with three small bowls around it: one filled with finely chopped green chives, one with black pepper, and one with coarse salt. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding extra fresh dill and chives on top before serving not only makes the salad look gorgeous but enhances that herbal freshness with every bite. A light drizzle of olive oil over the top adds just a hint of indulgence and sheen.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled meats, like juicy chicken or lamb kebabs, and it perfectly complements bright vegetable dishes such as roasted peppers or charred asparagus. It’s a versatile partner to nearly any summer spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe in individual mini bowls or atop a bed of leafy greens. You can also layer it in clear glasses for a picnic-perfect presentation that shows off all the colorful veggies and crispy potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more with a bit of time, though the potatoes may soften slightly, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetable and dairy content in the dressing, freezing is not recommended for this salad. The texture and flavors won’t hold up well, and the creaminess of the tzatziki dressing could separate.

Reheating

If you prefer your potatoes warm, reheat just the crispy potatoes separately in a hot oven or skillet before tossing with the chilled dressing and fresh veggies. This helps maintain that wonderful crispness without overheating the delicate dressing.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Baby potatoes work best because they roast evenly and smash nicely without falling apart. If you want to try different varieties, choose small, waxy potatoes that hold their shape well when cooked.

Is the dressing similar to traditional tzatziki?

It’s inspired by tzatziki but richer and creamier thanks to the mayonnaise and honey addition. This balance keeps it tangy, herby, and slightly sweet, making it perfect for coating the potatoes without overpowering their natural flavor.

Can I prepare this salad vegan?

You can make substitutions like using a dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayonnaise. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change a bit, but it can still be delicious and refreshing.

How crispy do the potatoes get?

Roasting at a high temperature with a good coating of olive oil and spices creates crisp, golden edges while keeping the insides soft and fluffy, adding delightful texture contrast in every bite of this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe.

What is the best way to serve this potato salad?

This salad is fantastic served slightly chilled or at room temperature, making it an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that travels well to picnics, potlucks, or weekend barbecues.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely special about this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad with Tzatziki-Inspired Dressing Recipe that invites you to savor every bite, blending comfort and freshness in such a satisfying way. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or the star side dish at your next gathering, you’re going to fall in love with the irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a repeat recipe you’ll reach for again and again.