### Smashed Potato Salad: The Ultimate Summer Delight
Tangy salad, crunchy potatoes, and rich ranch – this smashed potato salad is the ultimate summer delight! As a charming variation of conventional potato salad, this recipe features a revitalizing blend of textures and flavors that make it a fantastic choice for warm-weather get-togethers.
#### Why I Adore This Recipe
For those who relish a shreddy, chopped salad paired with crispy golden potatoes and a splash of homemade ranch dressing, this smashed potato salad is a true blessing. It’s a lively, lettuce-centric rendition of the traditional picnic potato salad, retaining the crispness of the potatoes while delivering a gratifying crunch with each mouthful.
This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nostalgic nod to summer dining. The mix of zesty pickles, soft potatoes, and velvety dressing creates a delightful trio that is both hearty and light. Whether savored as a main dish or a side, this salad is guaranteed to bring happiness to your table.
#### Ingredients
**Crispy Smashed Potatoes:**
– Small potatoes (like baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
**Salad:**
– Romaine lettuce
– Pickles
– Red onion
**Dressing:**
– Mayonnaise
– Sour cream
– Buttermilk
– Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley)
– Garlic powder
– Salt and pepper
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until tender enough to pierce with a fork, about 15-25 minutes depending on size.
2. **Chop the Veggies:** While the potatoes are cooking, chop the romaine, pickles, and red onion.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, fresh herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. **Smash the Potatoes:** Once cooked and slightly cooled, use the back of a flat drinking glass to press down each potato to around 1/4 to 1/8 inch thickness.
5. **Roast the Potatoes:** Place the smashed potatoes in an air fryer basket, spray with avocado oil, season, and air fry at 375°F for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for 30-45 minutes.
6. **Assemble the Salad:** Toss the romaine, pickles, and onions with the dressing. Mix in half of the crispy potatoes, saving the rest to sprinkle on top for extra crunch.
#### Serving Suggestions
This smashed potato salad is adaptable and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course. For an additional protein kick, think about adding tuna or grilled chicken. The salad is excellent for summer barbecues, picnics, or relaxed family meals.
#### Conclusion
This smashed potato salad merges the finest of summer flavors into one dish. With its crunchy potatoes, zesty pickles, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s a delightful way to embrace the season’s bounty. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal at home, this salad is bound to impress. Savor every bite!