Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes

If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that can steal the spotlight, look no further than these Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes. With their creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and irresistible garlic pesto infusion, these potatoes will complement any meal beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

These Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes are not just your average spuds. The unique combination of garlic pesto elevates the classic smashed potatoes into a gourmet side dish that bursts with flavor. The creamy baby yellow potatoes provide a buttery base that pairs perfectly with the fragrant herbs and garlic in the pesto. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional mashed or roasted potatoes, offering a satisfying texture and a punch of flavor that will keep your guests coming back for seconds.

Ingredient Notes

• Baby Yellow Potatoes (1.5 lbs or 2.4 kg) – These tender potatoes are naturally creamy and perfect for smashing. Rinsing them ensures they are clean and ready for cooking.
• Garlic Pesto – You can use store-bought or homemade garlic pesto. The garlic flavor is essential, so choose a quality pesto that you love.
• Olive Oil (3 tablespoons) – A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve a crispy exterior when roasting.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning the potatoes to enhance their natural flavor.
• Ground Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and spice.
• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large Pot – For boiling the potatoes until tender.
• Colander – To drain the potatoes after boiling.
• Baking Sheet – For roasting the smashed potatoes in the oven.
• Fork or Potato Masher – To gently smash the potatoes without turning them into a puree.
• Mixing Bowl – To combine the smashed potatoes with pesto and olive oil.
• Oven – Preheated for roasting the potatoes to crispy perfection.

Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes: How It’s Done

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by placing the rinsed baby yellow potatoes in a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 2: Drain and Cool

Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander. Allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes, just until they are cool enough to handle.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a clean baking sheet, arrange the drained potatoes in a single layer. Using a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato until it is flattened but still intact. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch.

Step 4: Season and Add Pesto

In a mixing bowl, combine the smashed potatoes with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and ground black pepper to taste. Add in your garlic pesto and mix until the potatoes are well-coated with the flavorful mixture.

Step 5: Roast the Potatoes

Place the seasoned and pesto-coated potatoes back on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Flip the potatoes halfway through for even roasting.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors in your Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes.

Better-for-You Options

• Use Sweet Potatoes – For a healthier twist, consider using sweet potatoes instead of yellow potatoes. They offer a lower glycemic index and a hint of sweetness.
• Olive Oil Alternatives – If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon and add a splash of vegetable broth for moisture.
• Low-Sodium Options – Use low-sodium salt to control your sodium intake while still enhancing flavor.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

It’s easy to overlook a few key details when making these Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes:

• Make sure not to over-boil the potatoes, as they can become too mushy and difficult to smash.
• When smashing the potatoes, be gentle to maintain their shape; you want them to be smashed, not mashed into oblivion!
• Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish; it brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Save It for Later

If you happen to have leftovers of your Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes, you’re in luck! They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but you may lose some of that delightful crispiness. Enjoy your delicious potatoes even after the feast!

Quick Questions

Can I make garlic pesto from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade garlic pesto is easy to make. Just blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the ingredients to taste!

What other herbs can I use in the pesto?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Spinach, parsley, or even arugula can add unique flavors to your pesto. Just keep in mind that each herb will impart its own distinct taste.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While baby yellow potatoes are perfect for this recipe, you can also use red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or even fingerling potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the potatoes.

What can I serve with Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes?

These potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also make a tasty addition to a hearty stew or soup.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
• Greek Yogurt Dip

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you have created these mouthwatering Garlic Pesto Smashed Potatoes, it’s time to gather around the table and enjoy. Whether you’re sharing them with family or friends, these potatoes will undoubtedly be a hit. Their crispy edges and creamy centers are a perfect match for a variety of dishes, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!