Potato salad has always been a classic comfort food in many households, and I’m excited to share with you a twist on this beloved dish—vegan smashed potato salad! Growing up, potato salad was a staple at almost every family gathering, whether it was a summer BBQ or a holiday feast. But over the years, I’ve realized that the traditional mayo-based potato salad could use a little makeover. That’s when I decided to create this vegan smashed potato salad that’s just as creamy, comforting, and flavorful, but without any dairy or animal products.
I’ve always believed that plant-based dishes can be just as indulgent and satisfying, and this recipe proves that. The smashed potatoes are tender, perfectly seasoned, and mixed with a tangy vegan mayo dressing that ties everything together. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this vegan version of a classic favorite is bound to become a crowd-pleaser.
In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make this vegan smashed potato salad, share a few tips to make it even better, and offer some ideas for customizations that will suit any dietary preference. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
The Best Vegan Smashed Potato Salad Recipe for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Smashed Potato Salad is made with Yukon gold potatoes that are crisped up in the oven and tossed in a dairy-free dressing.
Ingredients
3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes or sub baby dutch
4 tablespoons avocado oil plus more for the baking sheets
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup vegan mayo
1/2 cup celery chopped
3 green onions diced
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Add the potatoes to a stock pot and cover with water. Place on the stove and bring to a boil. Boil for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender. Drain and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Add some oil to both baking sheets. Evenly split the potatoes between the baking sheets. Use the bottom of a glass cup to flatten the potatoes. To each baking sheet add half of the oil and half of the dry seasonings. Place in the oven for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip the potatoes and place back in the oven for 20 more minutes – be sure to alternate the racks the baking sheets were on.
Meanwhile, add the mayo, celery, green onions, garlic, apple cider vinegar and mustard to a large bowl. Mix until combined and set aside.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Roughly chop the potatoes and add them to the bowl with the dressing (reserving a few for topping). Toss until coated, taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Top with the reserved potatoes.
Serve at room temperature or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 379kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 575mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How to Make Vegan Smashed Potato Salad
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Perfect Vegan Smashed Potato Salad
Making vegan smashed potato salad doesn’t require a lot of ingredients or complicated steps, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. The key is in choosing the right potatoes and preparing them in a way that enhances their natural flavor. Start by picking small to medium-sized waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Golds, which will give the salad a creamy texture once smashed.
Creating a vegan smashed potato salad is simple, as it does not necessitate many ingredients or intricate procedures, making it an ideal dish for any event. The essential factor lies in selecting the appropriate potatoes and preparing them to amplify their inherent flavor. Begin by selecting small to medium-sized waxy potatoes, like Yukon Golds, which will provide the salad with a creamy consistency once they are smashed.
Smashing Tips for the Perfect Texture
To get the right texture for your vegan smashed potato salad, use the back of a fork or a potato masher to gently smash each potato, leaving them a bit chunky. You don’t want to mash them into a puree—just enough to break them up and create little crevices that will soak up all the flavorful dressing.
Once your potatoes are smashed, set them aside and start preparing the vegan mayo dressing. A creamy mixture of vegan mayo, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper is all you need to coat the potatoes. The tangy mustard and vinegar provide a zesty flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
Making the Vegan Mayo Dressing
Crafting the Creamy Vegan Dressing
A good dressing is what elevates any potato salad, and the vegan mayo dressing is what makes this smashed potato salad creamy and tangy without any dairy. The beauty of this dressing is how simple it is to make, yet it packs a lot of flavor. Begin by combining your preferred vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
The vegan mayo serves as the base, giving the dressing a rich, creamy texture. Dijon mustard adds a nice tang, while the apple cider vinegar provides just the right amount of acidity to balance the creaminess of the mayo. It’s that perfect combination of creamy and tangy that brings the salad to life!
Adjusting the Flavor
You can always adjust the flavor of the dressing to suit your tastes. If you like it more tangy, add a little extra apple cider vinegar. Want a hint of sweetness? Add a small spoonful of maple syrup or agave. This dressing is versatile and can be tailored to your preference. Some people also like to add a bit of garlic powder or fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, to enhance the flavor profile.
Once you’ve whisked everything together and you’re happy with the flavor, it’s time to add the dressing to the smashed potatoes. Drizzle it over the potatoes and gently toss until everything is well coated. Make sure the dressing gets into all the little crevices of the smashed potatoes for maximum flavor.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Mixing in Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
Now that the potatoes are smashed and coated in the creamy vegan mayo dressing, it’s time to add some crunch and freshness to your vegan smashed potato salad. I love to include diced red onions, chopped celery, and fresh herbs to give the salad a refreshing bite. Red onions add a little sweetness and color, while celery provides a nice crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill bring brightness and a burst of flavor that really elevate the dish.
Other Flavorful Additions
If you want to take the salad up another notch, consider adding a handful of chopped pickles or relish for a tangy, briny contrast to the creaminess of the potatoes. Some people also like to include a little bit of smoked paprika or ground black pepper for a bit of heat and extra flavor. The beauty of this vegan smashed potato salad is that it’s so customizable! You can play around with the ingredients based on what you love or what you have on hand.
Chilling the Salad for Maximum Flavor
Once all the ingredients are mixed in, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious. It also gives the potatoes time to soak up all the dressing, creating a creamy, flavorful salad that tastes even better the next day.
If you’re serving the vegan smashed potato salad at a gathering or BBQ, you can garnish it with some extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an added pop of color. The cool, creamy, and zesty salad is sure to impress!
Tips and Variations for Your Vegan Smashed Potato Salad
Creative Twists for Your Vegan Smashed Potato Salad
While the basic recipe for vegan smashed potato salad is a crowd-pleaser, you can easily get creative and add your own personal touch. For instance, if you want to make it even heartier, consider adding some plant-based protein like chickpeas or roasted tofu. These will not only enhance the texture but also boost the nutritional content of the salad. For an extra layer of flavor, roasted garlic or caramelized onions can bring a deep, savory taste to the dish.
Make It Spicy!
If you love a little heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your dressing. This adds a nice spicy kick to balance out the creamy richness of the potatoes and mayo. You can also try adding a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes for a more intense spice level.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This vegan smashed potato salad is also a fantastic make-ahead dish. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or as a side dish for a weeknight dinner. Ensure that you place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The flavors will deepen as the salad sits, making it even tastier after a day or two.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served in so many ways. It pairs wonderfully with grilled veggies, vegan burgers, or a fresh, crisp green salad. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can even serve it with a simple cucumber salad or a side of sautéed greens. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
This vegan smashed potato salad is the perfect addition to any gathering or meal, whether it’s a sunny BBQ, a picnic in the park, or just a comforting dinner at home. The creamy, tangy dressing combined with the tender, smashed potatoes creates a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Additionally, the ability to tailor it to your preferences ensures that this recipe will undoubtedly become a beloved choice.
So, next time you’re looking for a plant-based, crowd-pleasing dish, give this vegan potato salad a try. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor that everyone can enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this smashed potato salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this vegan smashed potato salad tastes even better after it has had time to chill and let the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Can I substitute the vegan mayo for something else?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of vegan mayo, you can use alternatives like cashew cream, tahini, or even a dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version. These will provide a creamy texture while still keeping the salad vegan-friendly.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! The beauty of vegan smashed potato salad is its versatility. You can add extra veggies like chopped bell peppers, corn, or even roasted carrots for more texture and flavor. Play around with what you enjoy or what’s in season.
How can I make this salad spicy?
If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This will give your vegan smashed potato salad a nice spicy kick that complements the creamy mayo dressing.