Smashed fingerling potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic side dish that brings comfort food to new heights. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner table with minimal effort. The beauty of these smashed potatoes lies in their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, offering a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with various main courses. Whether you’re preparing a casual family meal or hosting friends for dinner, these smashed fingerling potatoes will impress your guests. In this article, we will explore the simple steps required to create this delicious dish, along with helpful tips to ensure perfect results every time. Youβll learn why this recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Ready to dive into the world of smashed fingerling potatoes? Letβs get started!
Why You’ll Love This Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fingerling Potatoes: Choose firm, unblemished fingerling potatoes for the best texture and flavor; about 1.5 pounds will serve four people well.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor; it also helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme work wonderfully; they add aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference for balanced flavor.
- Garlic Powder: This adds depth to the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C). This temperature ensures a perfectly crispy exterior on your potatoes.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
In a large pot of salted water, add the fingerling potatoes. Bring them to a boil over high heat and cook until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Drain and Cool
Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly until they are manageable but still warm.
Step 4: Smash the Potatoes
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place each potato and gently smash it using a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher until flattened but not completely broken apart.
Step 5: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato. Sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs of your choice.
Step 6: Roast Until Golden
Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Roast for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional olive oil or herbs for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all potatoes are similar sizes before boiling so they cook evenly.
- Crispier Texture: For an extra crunch, broil the smashed potatoes for an additional few minutes after roasting.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley based on your flavor preferences.
How to Serve Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
This Smashed Fingerling Potatoes is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled Chicken: The crispy, buttery potatoes complement the juicy chicken perfectly, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh veggies provide a colorful and nutritious balance to the hearty potatoes, making for a wholesome dish.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: The rich flavors of the salmon meld beautifully with the creamy texture of the smashed fingerling potatoes.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare smashed fingerling potatoes up to two days in advance. Cook the potatoes, smash them, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save you time when you’re ready to serve.
- Storing: Leftover smashed fingerling potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power for about three minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Suggestions for Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Avoid Overcooking the Potatoes
Overcooking your fingerling potatoes can lead to a mushy texture that makes them difficult to smash. To achieve the perfect consistency, boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. After boiling, drain and let them cool for a few minutes before smashing. This ensures they hold their shape better during cooking and provides that delightful crispy exterior you desire. Keep a close eye on the potatoes as they cook; timing is crucial to prevent them from becoming overly soft.
Donβt Skip Seasoning
Seasoning is key when preparing smashed fingerling potatoes. A common mistake is under-seasoning, which can result in bland flavors. Always season the water while boiling with salt to infuse flavor into the potatoes right from the start. After smashing, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, or your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme. This enhances the taste and aroma of your dish significantly, making each bite delicious.
Use a Heavy Pan for Crispy Edges
When roasting smashed fingerling potatoes, using a heavy pan can make a significant difference in achieving crispy edges. A cast-iron skillet or a sturdy baking sheet distributes heat evenly, promoting uniform browning. Preheat the pan before adding the smashed potatoes; this helps create that coveted golden crust. If you overcrowd the pan, it may lead to steaming rather than roasting, so ensure there’s enough space between each potato for optimal crispiness.
Mind Your Oil Usage
Using too little or too much oil can affect the texture of your smashed fingerling potatoes. A common mistake is skimping on oil in an attempt to make them healthier. However, adequate oil is necessary for achieving that crunchy texture and rich flavor profile. Conversely, too much oil can lead to greasy results. Aim for just enough to coat each potato lightly before roastingβthis balance will enhance both flavor and texture without overwhelming the dish.
FAQs
What are Smashed Fingerling Potatoes?
Smashed fingerling potatoes are small oval-shaped potatoes known for their creamy texture and earthy flavor. The term “smashed” refers to the cooking method where boiled potatoes are gently pressed down before roasting until crispy. This technique allows for a delightful contrast between fluffy interiors and crunchy exteriors. They can be seasoned in various ways, making them versatile as side dishes or appetizers.
How do I store leftover Smashed Fingerling Potatoes?
To store leftover smashed fingerling potatoes, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days when stored properly. To reheat, preheat your oven or skillet until hot and then warm up the leftovers until heated through and crispy again. Avoid reheating in the microwave as this can make them soggy rather than retaining their delightful crunch.
Can I make Smashed Fingerling Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare smashed fingerling potatoes ahead of time by boiling and smashing them earlier in the day or even a day prior to serving. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to roast. When ready to serve, simply toss them with oil and seasonings before roasting at high heat until crispy and heated through. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious smashed fingerling potatoes without spending all your time cooking right before your meal.
What seasonings work best with Smashed Fingerling Potatoes?
Smashed fingerling potatoes pair well with a variety of seasonings that enhance their natural flavors. Classic options include garlic powder, onion powder, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and spices such as paprika or chili flakes for added heat. For an extra touch of richness, try drizzling with melted butter or flavored oils such as garlic-infused olive oil after roasting for added depth of flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering smashed fingerling potatoes involves avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking or under-seasoning while ensuring proper oil usage for crispiness. By utilizing a heavy pan during roasting and incorporating flavorful seasonings, you elevate this simple dish into something special that pairs beautifully with various meals. Whether served at family gatherings or casual dinners, these delightful morsels will surely impress everyone at your table! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and techniques to create your perfect version of smashed fingerling potatoes!
Easy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Smashed fingerling potatoes are the ultimate side dish, combining crispy edges with fluffy centers for a satisfying experience. This easy recipe transforms humble fingerling potatoes into a gourmet delight, perfect for any occasionβfrom casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, including extra virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, and seasonings, you can create a flavorful accompaniment that will impress your guests. The simple yet effective cooking method ensures perfectly roasted potatoes every time. Customize them with your favorite spices or herbs for an extra personal touch.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds fingerling potatoes
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
- Boil the fingerling potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added crunch, broil the smashed potatoes for an additional 2-3 minutes after roasting. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley for diverse flavor profiles.
