Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

Easy, cozy Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad is a delightful dish that brings together nourishing ingredients like shredded Brussels sprouts and crispy potatoes, all enveloped in a creamy lemon peppercorn dressing. This salad is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or as a side for any festive occasion. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it stand out while remaining simple enough for any home cook to master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The zesty lemon dressing mingles perfectly with the crispy potatoes and fresh vegetables.
• Nourishing ingredients: Packed with Brussels sprouts, kale, and edamame, this salad offers vitamins and minerals in every bite.
• Versatile dish: Serve it warm or cold as a side, main dish, or even for meal prep throughout the week.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious salad ready in under an hour.
• Crowd-pleaser: Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a hit at gatherings and potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Fork or flat-bottom measuring cup
• Jar for dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Provide ample space for roasting your vegetables evenly.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes to achieve that perfect fork-tender texture.
• Jar for dressing: Allows easy mixing of ingredients and helps emulsify your creamy dressing.

Ingredients

Easy, cozy Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad packed with nourishing shredded Brussels sprouts, crispy potatoes, and a creamy lemon peppercorn dressing.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lb baby potatoes (mini red potatoes or baby Dutch yellow potatoes)
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded
– 1 large shallot, sliced
– 2-3 tbsp avocado oil
– Kosher salt
– Fresh cracked black pepper
– 2 cups lacinato kale, stems removed and shredded
– 1 1/2 cups edamame, thawed or cooked according to package instructions
– 1/4 cup minced chives
– 1 garlic clove, grated
– 1 tbsp white apple vinegar
– 1 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
– 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
– 1/4 tsp fresh cracked white pepper
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 2-3 tsp maple syrup
– 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to help with easy cleanup.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water liberally. Add the baby potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until they are fork-tender.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes well. Transfer them to one baking sheet. Use a fork or flat-bottom measuring cup to lightly smash each potato. Ensure there’s some space between them. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of avocado oil. Generously sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

Place the baking sheet on the bottom rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. After that time has passed, flip each potato over and bake for another 10–15 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp around the edges.

Step 5: Roast Brussels Sprouts and Shallots

On the second baking sheet, add the shredded Brussels sprouts and sliced shallots. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper before drizzling with about 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Toss everything to coat evenly. Bake on the middle rack for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Wilt the Kale

After roasting the Brussels sprouts and shallots for 15 minutes, add the shredded kale on top. Using tongs, toss everything together gently before returning it to bake for an additional 5 minutes until the kale has wilted.

Step 7: Prepare Dressing

While everything is roasting in the oven, prepare your dressing in a jar by combining grated garlic, white vinegar, black pepper, chili flakes (if using), white pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon zest and juice, kosher salt, maple syrup, and extra virgin olive oil. Shake vigorously or whisk until creamy.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Once roasted veggies are done baking, transfer crispy potatoes onto the tray containing Brussels sprouts and kale. Top everything with edamame and minced chives before drizzling on about one-third of your dressing. Toss gently until fully combined.

Step 9: Serve

Divide your Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad into bowls; drizzle more dressing on top if desired before serving! Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, as a side for dinner, or as a light lunch, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy this salad as a standalone meal. Its combination of crispy potatoes and nutritious greens makes it filling enough for lunch or dinner.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. The zesty lemon flavors complement the smoky taste of grilled meats perfectly.

In Wraps

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps. Spread on a whole grain tortilla and add some extra greens for a healthy lunch option.

On Toast

• Serve the salad on toasted bread or crostini for an easy appetizer. This adds crunch and elevates the presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving. This adds color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

To ensure your Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes are ideal for smashing due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when cooked.
• Season generously: Don’t skip on salt and pepper when cooking your ingredients; it enhances the flavors of each component.
• Get crispy potatoes: Baking them until golden brown adds texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
• Make the dressing creamy: Whisking or shaking the dressing until emulsified ensures it coats all ingredients evenly without being too runny.
• Adjust flavors: Taste test your dressing before tossing it with the salad; adjust acidity or sweetness according to your preference.
• Serve fresh: For best results, serve immediately after mixing so that the potatoes remain crispy and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider these options to round out your meal.

1. Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears brushed with olive oil and grilled until slightly charred create a great contrast in textures.
2. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots seasoned with herbs enhance the dish’s earthiness while adding vibrant color.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers crunch and acidity that balance well with the potato salad.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn cooked to perfection brings summer vibes to your table and complements lemony flavors beautifully.
5. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in vinegar provides a crisp counterpart to the creamy potato salad.
6. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant side dish that’s easy to assemble.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy. Aim for fork-tender potatoes after about 10 minutes of boiling.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning your potatoes and vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Always salt liberally during cooking and in the dressing.

• Inconsistent Potato Sizes: Using unevenly sized potatoes can result in uneven cooking. Try to select baby potatoes of similar sizes for even cooking.

• Neglecting the Dressing: A poorly mixed dressing can leave your salad bland. Ensure you whisk or shake the dressing well until it’s creamy and fully emulsified.

• Not Serving Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you prepare it too far in advance, the crispy textures may diminish. Consider assembling just before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing and fresh veggies.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for up to 1 month.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread salad on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which helps maintain some crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad?

Yes! You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad last?

This delicious salad lasts about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare most components ahead of time but it’s best to mix them just before serving to keep textures intact.

What are some good side dishes with Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great main dish or side for summer BBQs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad is perfect for meal prepping as it holds up well when stored correctly.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Pepper Smashed Potato Salad is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal produce. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table! Give it a try today!