Lemon Smashed Potatoes are like a party on your plate, bursting with zesty flavor and buttery goodness. Imagine crispy edges giving way to tender, fluffy centers that practically melt in your mouth, all while the tangy aroma of fresh lemon dances through the air. Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes This dish is perfect for a cheerful family dinner or a lively barbecue with friends, where everyone will be asking for seconds—and possibly thirds. Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes.
Let’s be honest: there’s something incredibly satisfying about smashing potatoes. It’s therapeutic! You can channel all your inner frustrations into those spuds, and the result? A dish that looks fancy enough to impress but is deceptively simple to prepare. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful lemony excursion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lemon Smashed Potatoes are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that’s hard to resist
- Their golden-brown crispy edges make them visually stunning on any table
- Perfect as a side dish or snack—these potatoes are versatile and delicious
My Uncle Bob once declared these potatoes the “best thing since sliced bread” at a family gathering, which might have been an exaggeration, but hey, who doesn’t appreciate some enthusiastic praise over mashed veggies?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Potatoes: Choose small, waxy potatoes for their creamy texture; they hold their shape beautifully when smashed. Twice Baked Potato Bites.
- Fresh Lemons: Use bright, juicy lemons for maximum flavor; zesting enhances the citrus aroma.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the flavor; it adds richness that complements the lemon.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme work wonderfully here; they add freshness and color to your presentation.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors; don’t skip on freshly cracked pepper for added zing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil Those Spuds: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add baby potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You want them soft enough to smash but not so mushy that they fall apart.
Time to Smash!: Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool slightly. On a sturdy cutting board or baking sheet, use a potato masher or the bottom of a glass to gently press down each potato until they’re flattened but still intact.
Lemon Infusion: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing brings zesty love to our smashed potatoes.
Toss with Flavor: Drizzle the lemon mixture over each smashed potato generously. Mashed Potato Casserole Ensure every little crevice gets coated because we want those flavors seeping in—like sunshine on a summer day!
Roast Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange these beauties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy around the edges—oh yes, that’s the dream!
Herb Garnish Finale: Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over your Lemon Smashed Potatoes while they’re still hot. This adds color and an aromatic touch that makes everyone swoon! For more inspiration, check out this loaded cheesy potato waffles recipe.
And there you have it! Your Lemon Smashed Potatoes are ready to steal the show at dinner or become your new favorite late-night snack—if you can manage not to eat them all beforehand!
You Must Know
- Lemon Smashed Potatoes offer a zesty twist on classic comfort food
- Their crispy edges and fluffy insides make for perfect pairing with any dish
- The fresh lemon elevates the flavor, while garlic adds a savory touch, creating an irresistible side dish that steals the show
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then drain and smash them gently. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt before roasting at 425°F for crispy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. A sprinkle of feta cheese can create an amazing twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to regain that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy smashed potatoes, use Yukon Golds; they have great texture and flavor
- Always let your potatoes cool slightly before smashing to avoid burns
- Remember, don’t over-smash—keep some chunks for texture!
I once served these Lemon Smashed Potatoes at a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than my cousin’s new puppy could steal a snack!
FAQ
Can I prepare Lemon Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day before and reheat them before serving.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture.
Can I make Lemon Smashed Potatoes vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit cheese and use vegetable broth for added flavor.
Lemon Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Smashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic side dish, combining crispy edges with fluffy interiors and a refreshing lemon flavor. This irresistible recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, leaving everyone coming back for more. With minimal ingredients, this dish delivers maximum taste, making it as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions
- Boil baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- On a cutting board, gently smash each potato with the bottom of a glass or a potato masher.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the lemon mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange potatoes on a lined baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
