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If you’ve ever craved the perfect snack or side that’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with bold flavor, then the Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These little golden gems pack that punch of tangy vinegar and savory saltiness, all wrapped in a satisfyingly crunchy crust that’s just begging to be devoured. It’s a simple yet irresistible dish that elevates humble baby red potatoes into a flavor celebration you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the best dishes come from just a handful of essentials, and this recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture and taste, from the creamy softness of the potatoes to the zing of the seasoning and the rich crispness from the olive oil.
- Baby red potatoes: These small potatoes cook quickly and hold their shape well, making them perfect for smashing.
- Salt & Vinegar Seasoning: The star flavor that delivers that distinctive tang and saltiness, bringing unforgettable zest to each bite.
- Olive oil: Adds a luscious crispiness and helps the potatoes brown beautifully while adding depth to the flavor.
How to Make Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Start by giving your baby red potatoes a good rinse until they’re clean and dirt-free. No need to peel these little beauties because their skins add a wonderful texture and earthy flavor. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cook on HIGH for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until they’re tender enough for a fork to slip through easily. This quick step softens the potatoes just right, making smashing easier and faster.
Step 2: Smash Potatoes
Once your potatoes are perfectly cooked and cooled just a bit to handle, it’s time to give them that rustic, smashed look. Use the bottom of a glass or a spatula to gently press down on each potato, flattening it to about half an inch thick. This smashing creates more surface area to crisp up later, while keeping the center creamy and fluffy — a true texture delight!
Step 3: Season Both Sides
Sprinkle about 1½ teaspoons of Salt & Vinegar Seasoning evenly on both sides of the smashed potatoes. This seasoning step is essential because it infuses every bite with that signature tang and saltiness, making your potatoes irresistibly flavorful.
Step 4: Cook Potatoes
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to get the pan good and hot. Carefully place the smashed potatoes into the skillet, giving them space so they crisp up nicely without steaming. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally and adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil as needed to ensure each side gets that beautiful golden crust. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re delightfully crispy and browned all over — pure heaven on a plate.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Give your smashed potatoes a final sprinkle of Salt & Vinegar Seasoning if you want to intensify that flavor punch. Then serve them up immediately so everyone can enjoy their crunchy exterior and soft, tangy interior. Trust me, these potatoes disappear fast!
How to Serve Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair on top can take these smashed potatoes from fantastic to unforgettable. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy Greek yogurt pairs beautifully, adding creaminess that complements the vinegar tang perfectly.
Side Dishes
These smashed potatoes are versatile companions at any meal. They pair beautifully with grilled chicken or fresh seafood, and they’re a fun alternative to fries alongside a juicy burger. For a vegetarian option, serve them with a vibrant salad or sautéed greens to balance out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling creative, transform your Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe into bite-sized appetizers on toothpicks at your next gathering. Or layer them in a baking dish with melted cheese and bacon bits for a decadent casserole twist. Their bold flavor can shine in so many fun, unexpected ways!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extras? Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep well but tend to lose some crispness, so a quick reheat is key.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for maintaining that crispy texture, you can freeze cooked potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw completely before reheating to help them come back to life.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a hot skillet with a little olive oil. This helps regain that wonderful crispiness while warming the inside without drying the potatoes out. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep them as crispy as possible.
FAQs
Can I use other potatoes besides baby red potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold or small new potatoes work well too, but baby reds are preferred because their thin skins crisp beautifully and hold up well when smashed.
Where can I find Salt & Vinegar Seasoning?
Most grocery stores carry it in the spice aisle, or you can find it online. If you don’t have it, a mix of salt and malt vinegar powder works as a good substitute.
Can I bake the smashed potatoes instead of frying?
Yes! Bake them on a greased baking sheet at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but still very tasty and a bit healthier.
How do I make sure my potatoes get crispy?
Make sure to use enough oil and don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each potato enough space and cook on medium heat so they brown slowly and evenly without burning.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe is naturally vegan, making it a great plant-based side full of flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a surefire way to jazz up your potato game with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side, or crave-worthy appetizer, these crispy, tangy smashed potatoes will be the star of your kitchen. Give them a try and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite that’s simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious!
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Salt & Vinegar Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy and flavorful Salt & Vinegar Smashed Taters are a delightful snack or side dish. Baby red potatoes are microwaved until tender, smashed, seasoned with tangy salt & vinegar seasoning, and then pan-fried in olive oil until golden and crispy. This quick and easy recipe yields a perfect balance of zest and crunch that’s sure to please any palate.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 pound baby red potatoes, cleaned
Seasoning & Oil
- 1 tablespoon Salt & Vinegar Seasoning, divided
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Place the cleaned baby red potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on HIGH for 5-6 minutes until they are fork tender, indicating they are cooked through but still firm enough to smash.
- Smash Potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the microwave and gently smash each potato using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. Season both sides of the smashed potatoes evenly with 1½ teaspoons of Salt & Vinegar Seasoning.
- Cook Potatoes: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Carefully transfer the smashed potatoes to the skillet. Cook, turning occasionally to ensure even browning, while adding the remaining 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil as needed to prevent sticking. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are nicely browned and crispy on both sides.
- Season and Serve: Once crispy, remove the potatoes from the skillet and season with the remaining Salt & Vinegar Seasoning to taste. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a microwave-safe plate with sides to prevent any liquid runoff.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil for a lighter or crispier finish according to preference.
- For extra tanginess, add a splash of malt vinegar or lemon juice before serving.
- Leftover smashed taters are best reheated in a skillet to retain crispiness rather than microwaving again.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
