Name: Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za'atar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb baby potatoes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp za’atar spice; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste); 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce + 2 tbsp of the adobo sauce; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 clove garlic; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt to taste

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Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. They start with tender baby potatoes, boiled until perfectly soft, and then are smashed to create a crispy exterior that gives way to a fluffy, creamy interior. Coated with za’atar spice and a drizzle of silky chipotle tahini, these potatoes are bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion. If you’re seeking a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, you’ve just found a winner.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar

Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za'atar

I first discovered the magic of smashed potatoes during a family gathering when the aroma of roasted garlic and fresh herbs filled the air. This recipe quickly became a go-to not just for family dinners but also for casual catch-ups with friends. The bright tang of lemon zest combined with the earthy notes of za’atar elevates these potatoes from simple sides to star players on your dinner table. If you haven’t tried Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar yet, let this dish entice your taste buds, and encourage you to whip it up tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about an hour, including prep and cooking time, these potatoes are easy to make.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of za’atar and chipotle tahini creates a savory and smoky taste that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: With their gorgeous golden crust and vibrant green garnish, they make a stunning presentation on any plate.
Flexible Serving: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal, you’ll want to serve these at every gathering.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with the right tahini or nut-based alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb baby potatoes: These tender little gems hold up well during boiling and smashing; if unavailable, use small Yukon Gold potatoes for a similar texture.
1/4 cup olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor—if you prefer, avocado oil works nicely too.
1 tbsp za’atar spice: This Middle Eastern spice blend adds a warm, aromatic flavor; if you can’t find it, a mix of oregano, thyme, and sesame seeds can be a good substitute.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds brightness and color; feel free to use cilantro for a different taste.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste or use sea salt for a richer flavor.
1 tsp lemon zest: Zest brings vibrant citrus notes; for the best results, use fresh lemons.
1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste): Gives creaminess and depth; if you’re avoiding sesame, almond or sunflower seed butter can be alternatives.
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce + 2 tbsp of the adobo sauce: This adds smoky heat; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
1/4 cup cold water: This helps in achieving the desired sauce consistency.
1 clove garlic: Fresh garlic is a must; for convenience, use pre-minced garlic but note it may affect flavor depth.
1 tbsp lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the sauce; fresh is best but bottled works in a pinch.
Salt to taste: To round out all the flavors as needed.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar

Boil the potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add 1 lb of baby potatoes and let them cook for 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender yet firm enough to hold their shape.

Drain and cool: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander and let cool slightly until they’re easier to handle.

Preheat the oven: While the potatoes are cooling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking them to crispy perfection.

Mix with seasonings: In a large bowl, pour in 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 tbsp za’atar spice, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Toss the slightly cooled potatoes in this flavorful mixture until they are well coated.

Smash the potatoes: Transfer the seasoned potatoes onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using the bottom of a glass or a sturdy spatula, gently press down on each potato to smash them, creating a flat surface that will crisp up nicely.

Bake the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let the potatoes bake for 20 minutes. After this, carefully flip each potato using a spatula and bake for another 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.

Prepare chipotle tahini: While the potatoes bake, blend together 1/4 cup tahini, 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, 2 tbsp of the adobo sauce, 1/4 cup cold water, 1 clove minced garlic, and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a high-speed blender until smooth. Adjust with more cold water if necessary for a drizzling consistency.

Serve and enjoy: Once the potatoes are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven and drizzle with the chipotle tahini. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, serve hot, and savor every bite.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for no more than a few hours. After that, transition them into the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 3 days. If you want to store them long-term, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to a sealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, bringing some of that crispy texture back.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid crowding your baking sheet; give the potatoes space to ensure they roast rather than steam.
Thoroughly drying the boiled potatoes will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor; rosemary or smoked paprika can be great additions.
For extra creamy tahini sauce, add a splash more cold water to your blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Make the tahini sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to two weeks for quick use later on.

Rather than just another side dish, Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Za’atar are an exciting element on your dining table. Their crunchy, golden edges paired with the rich tahini sauce create a delightful balance of textures and flavors that everyone will rave about. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite seasonings or dips! Whether you’re enjoying them solo or serving them alongside your favorite proteins, these potatoes are sure to impress.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe due to their size and texture, feel free to experiment with other types like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on the potato type and size.

How spicy is the chipotle tahini?

The spice level really depends on the chipotle pepper you use; one usually provides a nice smoky kick, but you can always add more or reduce the amount to suit your personal preference. Taste as you go for the perfect balance!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tahini sauce and season the potatoes a few hours ahead. Reheat the potatoes in the oven before serving for that crispy texture, and drizzle the sauce just before enjoying them to keep everything fresh.

What’s the best way to serve these potatoes?

These potatoes are versatile! Serve them warm as an appetizer, alongside grilled meats, or as a snack with a refreshing dip. They’re bound to be a hit no matter the occasion!