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As the sun sets and the aromas of dinner fill the air, there’s nothing more inviting than the sound of potatoes sizzling in the oven. These Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto are a delightful discovery that transforms the humble spud into a gourmet experience. With their crispy, golden edges and a tender inside, each bite is a revelation, kissed by the vibrant flavors of homemade garlic pesto.

Imagine sitting down with family or friends, sharing a dish that not only looks stunning but is also incredibly easy to whip up. Gone are the days of mundane fast food—this recipe brings comfort food back to the table while keeping it healthy and vegan. Whether as a stand-alone snack or a dazzling side for your main course, these smashed potatoes offer the perfect harmony of textures and tastes that’ll impress anyone, even picky eaters. Dive into this masterpiece of flavor and make every meal a little more special!

Why will you love Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with the robust taste of garlic pesto, elevating the simple potato into a flavor powerhouse.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any weeknight dinner.

Perfectly Crispy: Enjoy a delightful contrast with crispy edges and soft interiors, ensuring that every mouthful delights your senses.

Versatile Dish: Serve them as a snack, side, or even a main dish, and pair with your favorite proteins or salads for an unforgettable meal.

Healthy Comfort Food: Get your comfort fix without the guilt; these potatoes are vegan and gluten-free, so you can indulge without worry.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Baby Gold/Yellow Potatoes – These potatoes provide a tender texture when boiled and are ideal for smashing.
• Olive Oil – Essential for achieving that crispy exterior; feel free to substitute with any neutral oil.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper – These staple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the crispy potatoes.

For the Garlic Pesto
• Fresh Basil – The star of the pesto; it adds an aromatic, fresh quality to the dish—spinach or arugula can be used if basil is not available.
• Garlic – Provides depth and flavor to the pesto; chopped garlic delivers a stronger taste.
• Pine Nuts or Walnuts – These nuts give the pesto a creamy texture; omit for nut allergies, and the dressing will still be delicious.
• Lemon Juice – Helps to add brightness and acidity to the pesto for balance; always use freshly squeezed for the best results.
• Nutritional Yeast – Offers a cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for maintaining the vegan theme; can be substituted with Parmesan cheese if desired.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This will be blended into the pesto to enhance richness and cohesion.

These Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto are not just a side dish; they’re an experience that you and your loved ones will crave daily!

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto

Boil Potatoes: Begin by adding your rinsed baby gold potatoes to a large pot, covering them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
Make Pesto: While your potatoes are boiling, grab a food processor. Blend together fresh basil, garlic, your choice of nuts, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast until well combined. Gradually add extra virgin olive oil until it forms a lovely paste. Don’t forget to taste and season as needed!
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the magic to come.
Smash Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and place them onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato to flatten them, ensuring a rough surface for extra crispiness.
Season and Roast: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Serve: Once perfectly roasted, generously top your crispy potatoes with the vibrant garlic pesto. For a lovely finishing touch, consider garnishing with fresh basil or a sprinkle of pine nuts if desired.

Optional: Drizzle with a little lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto?

Transform your meal into a symphony of tastes with these delightful sides that complement the crispy texture and vibrant flavors.

Grilled Asparagus: This lightly charred vegetable adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the pesto.
Lentil Meatballs: Packed with flavor, they offer a hearty protein source that pairs perfectly with the buttery potatoes. A great way to make the meal complete.
Simple Green Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this salad brings a refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pesto and crispy spuds.
Roasted Bell Peppers: Their sweet, caramelized edges complement the savory notes of the garlic pesto, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
Chickpea Stew: Serving this hearty dish alongside adds additional texture and a lovely warmth, making your dining experience cozy and satisfying.
Chardonnay or Sparkling Water: A crisp Chardonnay elevates the meal with its acidity, while sparkling water cleanses the palate for every flavorful bite.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich, velvety treat contrasts beautifully with the crispy potatoes, rounding off your meal with a touch of indulgence.
Homemade Garlic Bread: The garlic flavors in both dishes tie everything together, creating a dreamy pairing that brings comfort to a new height.
Roasted Cauliflower: Its nutty flavor and caramelization match the crispy potatoes, adding complexity to each bite.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Nut-Free Pesto: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a creamy texture without the nuts.
This swap still provides that rich flavor, so everyone can enjoy it safely!
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for an inviting heat, or sprinkle smoked paprika on the potatoes before roasting.
This little twist can elevate your dish, making it excitingly bold!
Herb Swaps: If fresh basil isn’t available, try spinach or arugula for a different but delightful pesto flavor.
Each green adds its unique essence, giving you a variety of options.
Cheesy Version: For a nondairy option, nutritional yeast can be replaced with Parmesan cheese if preferred.
This brings in a deeper umami flavor while maintaining that satisfied feeling of indulgence!
Caramelized Touch: Toss the smashed potatoes with caramelized onions or shallots before roasting for an incredible depth of sweetness.
This adds an extraordinary dimension, making your dish feel even more gourmet.
Roasted Garlic Pesto: Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, mellower flavor in the pesto.
Roasting elevates the garlic, making it rich and buttery, adding another layer of comfort!
Texture Twist: Mix in quinoa or chickpeas with the potatoes before roasting for added protein and texture.
This hearty addition makes this dish even more filling, transforming it into a nourishing meal.
Citrus Zest: Zest in a bit of lemon or lime to the pesto for an extra zing that brightens the flavors beautifully.
This refreshing touch can make the meal feel light and invigorating!

Expert Tips for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Tender Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before smashing; undercooked potatoes will lead to a tough texture.
Boost Crispiness: Add a pinch of baking soda to the boiling water for extra crispy edges, a great tip for these crispy potatoes!
Avoid Soggy Pesto: Store leftover garlic pesto in an airtight container separately from potatoes to maintain freshness.
Flavor Fusion: Experiment with adding spices like smoked paprika to the potatoes before roasting for an exciting flavor twist.
Serving Temperature: Serve these crispy smashed potatoes warm for the best taste, allowing the garlic pesto to meld beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. Simply drizzle them with olive oil, season, and roast right before serving for restaurant-quality results. The garlic pesto can be made ahead as well and stored separately for about a week in the fridge—just give it a stir before using to re-emulsify. This way, you can enjoy a deliciously crispy side with minimal effort on busy weeknights while still delighting everyone at the table!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh, retaining their delightful texture.
Freezer: If you want to freeze them, place cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F (204°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, helping regain some crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Pesto Storage: Keep garlic pesto in a separate airtight container in the fridge for about a week. Drizzle with olive oil on top to help preserve freshness.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Pesto Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for firm baby gold or yellow potatoes that are free from any dark spots or blemishes. The ideal potatoes will be smooth and medium-sized, perfect for boiling and smashing. If you can’t find baby potatoes, red or white potatoes are great alternatives and provide a similar texture.

How should I store leftover smashed potatoes?
After enjoying your crispy smashed potatoes, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. To keep them as crispy as possible, store them separately from the garlic pesto, which should also be in its own airtight container.

Can I freeze crispy smashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Start by allowing the smashed potatoes to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will last for up to 2 months. This method helps retain their texture, making for easy reheating later.

What should I do if my garlic pesto is too thick?
If your garlic pesto is a bit too thick for your liking, simply add a little more extra virgin olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. Blend again until smooth. It’s customizable, so don’t hesitate to adjust based on your personal preference—making this pesto is part of the fun!

Are these potatoes safe for those with nut allergies?
Very good question! If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can certainly omit the pine nuts or walnuts from the garlic pesto without losing flavor. Instead, consider using sunflower seeds as a substitute for added creaminess, or simply make the pesto without nuts—you won’t be sacrificing taste!

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Indeed, it is! These crispy smashed potatoes with garlic pesto are both vegan and gluten-free, making them a perfect option for anyone following those dietary preferences. The ingredients are all plant-based, so you can enjoy this delicious dish without any worries.