Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Table of Contents
Growing up, some of my fondest memories were made in the cozy warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen. It was there, amidst the gentle hum of the oven and the comforting clatter of dishes, that I first learned the magic of simple, homemade food. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that embodies that same nostalgic charm — Smashed Fingerling Potatoes. These delightful little bites are more than just a side dish; they’re a delicious reminder of home-cooked love. Imagine tender potatoes, smashed to crispy perfection, with a whisper of garlic and parsley that dances across your taste buds. It’s the kind of recipe that wraps you in a warm hug, with the crispy edges offering a satisfying crunch that’s irresistible.
What makes these potatoes truly special is their simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family dinner or looking for the perfect dish to impress at a potluck, these Smashed Fingerling Potatoes fit the bill beautifully. They bring back memories of golden afternoons spent in the kitchen with family, and their straightforward preparation offers a sense of accomplishment for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. The earthy flavor of the potatoes pairs harmoniously with the bright notes of parsley and garlic, making each bite a little celebration of flavors.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Smashed Fingerling Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, offering the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and charm. You likely have most of these ingredients — olive oil, garlic, sea salt, and pepper — already in your pantry. These ingredients are fundamental, yet they transform basic potatoes into something extraordinary. The olive oil ensures the potatoes are crisp and flavorful, while the garlic and parsley infuse them with aromatic depth.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or special gatherings, these potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy everyone. Their unique texture, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, makes them universally appealing. Kids and adults alike will gravitate towards their golden, crunchy edges and fluffy interiors, making them a go-to for any event.
- Versatile Uses: Serve them as a side dish, a snack, or even as a base for creative toppings. Consider adding toppings like cheese, sour cream, or bacon bits for a loaded version. You can also experiment with international flavors by adding spices like paprika or cumin, taking this dish to new heights.
- Quick Preparation: Despite their gourmet appearance, these potatoes come together with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy days. The quick boil and smash process ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more with your loved ones. This efficiency allows you to enjoy hearty, home-cooked flavors even on a tight schedule.
- Nostalgic Comfort: They evoke the warmth of homemade meals and create new memories with every bite. The sensory experience of their aroma and taste can transport you back to cherished times. Each bite is a comforting reminder of the love and care that goes into cooking, making every meal a special occasion.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up these delightful bites, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade snacks.
- Stock Pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes to tender perfection. A large pot ensures even cooking and avoids overcrowding, which can lead to uneven textures. Make sure the pot is big enough to allow the water to circulate around the potatoes freely, which helps them cook uniformly.
- Baking Sheet: Provides the perfect surface for roasting the potatoes to a crispy, golden finish. A rimmed sheet is ideal to catch any oil drips and prevent spills. Using a heavy-duty sheet can help distribute heat evenly, ensuring all potatoes get that perfect crunch.
- Parchment Paper: Ensures easy clean-up and prevents sticking, making the process seamless. It also helps achieve an even golden color and crispy texture on the potatoes. The paper acts as a barrier that allows the potatoes to crisp without burning.
- Small Glass: Ideal for gently smashing the potatoes to the right thickness. A glass with a flat bottom works best for uniform smashing. This method allows you to control the amount of pressure, preventing the potatoes from breaking apart.
- Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining the garlic, parsley, and olive oil before drizzling over the potatoes. A small bowl is sufficient, and using one with a spout can make drizzling easier. Ensuring the mixture is well-blended helps distribute the flavors evenly.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or any “creamer” potatoes)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup garlic minced
- ¼ cup parsley minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt coarse grind
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and scrub potatoes. Add to stock pot, top with water and bring to a boil. Ensure the water covers the potatoes completely for even cooking.
- Boil the potatoes until fork tender, 15-20 minutes or until easily pierced with a knife. Drain, remove excess moisture, and allow to cool. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 450°F. Cooling ensures they hold their shape when smashed.
- Spray the large baking sheet with non-stick spray, set aside. For easy clean up, line with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes for hassle-free cleanup.
- Finely mince the parsley and garlic, combine with the olive oil in a small bowl, set aside. The olive oil acts as a carrier, infusing the potatoes with the garlic and parsley flavors.
- Once the potatoes are cool, press on the potatoes and smash them until they are about ⅓ inch thick. I use a small glass. Place potatoes on a baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Spacing is key to allowing air circulation, ensuring each potato gets crispy.
- Drizzle the garlic mixture over each potato, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Use a spoon or brush for even distribution of the mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are crunchy and golden brown for maximum crunchiness! Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 20 minutes • Total Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 150 • Servings: 4
Note: For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. Adding lemon zest can give the potatoes a bright, fresh finish.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These Smashed Fingerling Potatoes not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Rich in potassium and vitamin C, they offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor. This variety holds its shape well, making it perfect for smashing. Potatoes are also a good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, enhancing heart health and lending a rich flavor. It’s also an excellent conductor of heat, helping to crisp the potatoes. Olive oil contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, it adds a pungent, aromatic depth. Its natural sweetness intensifies with roasting, adding complexity to the dish. Garlic is also believed to have cardiovascular benefits.
- Parsley: A source of vitamins A, C, and K, it brings a fresh, peppery note to the dish. Its vibrant color also adds visual appeal. Parsley is also high in antioxidants, offering additional health benefits.
- Sea Salt: Offers essential minerals, enhancing the overall taste without overwhelming it. Coarse grind helps to add a subtle crunch and burst of flavor. Sea salt can enhance flavors, making the dish more satisfying.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These Smashed Fingerling Potatoes are versatile companions to various beverages and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
- Grilled Chicken: The juicy, savory flavors of grilled chicken complement the potatoes’ crispiness beautifully. Consider marinating the chicken in lemon and herbs for an added zest. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a satisfying meal.
- Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the potatoes for a complete meal. Try a mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The acidity from the salad dressing can cut through the richness of the potatoes.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: Adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the potatoes’ crunch. Combine Greek yogurt with dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing dip. This dip can serve as a cooling counterpoint to the warm potatoes.
- Steamed Vegetables: Offers a healthy, colorful side that enhances the visual and nutritional appeal. Broccoli or asparagus would be excellent choices, maintaining the dish’s vibrant theme. The vegetables add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory potatoes.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare!), store your Smashed Fingerling Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also repurpose them into a delicious potato salad by tossing them with some fresh greens and a light vinaigrette. These potatoes are so versatile, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy them again!
Transform leftovers into a hearty breakfast by topping them with a poached egg and a sprinkle of chives for a delightful morning treat. Alternatively, mash any remaining potatoes and use them as a base for a potato pancake, adding some grated cheese and herbs for extra flavor.
In the end, cooking is all about creating moments of joy and connection. As you prepare these Smashed Fingerling Potatoes, I hope you feel the same warmth and love that filled my grandmother’s kitchen. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that brings people together. So gather your loved ones, share these delightful potatoes, and make some cherished memories of your own.
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Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and scrub potatoes. Add to stock pot, top with water and bring to a boil.
- Boil the potatoes until fork tender, 15-20 minutes or until easily pierced with a knife. Drain, remove excess moisture, and allow to cool.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Spray the large baking sheet with non-stick spray, set aside. For easy clean up line with parchment paper.
- Finely mince the parsley and garlic, combine with the olive oil in a small bowl, set aside.
- Once the potatoes are cool, press on the potatoes and smash them until they are about ⅓ inch thick. I use a small glass. Place potatoes on a baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Drizzle the garlic mixture over each potato, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are crunchy and golden brown for maximum crunchiness!
