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If you’re looking for a fresh, satisfying side dish that combines crispy roasted potatoes with vibrant herbs and vegetables, this smashed potato salad with peas is exactly what you need. It brings together golden roasted smashed potatoes, sweet peas, crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a simple Mediterranean-inspired dressing that’s packed with flavor.

Unlike traditional creamy potato salads, this version is light, refreshing, and completely mayonnaise-free. Every bite offers the perfect balance of crispy potatoes, tender peas, fresh vegetables, and bright herbs coated in a tangy balsamic dressing with hints of mint, sumac, and chili flakes.

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Potato Salad with Peas

There are countless potato salad recipes out there, but this one stands apart for several reasons.

Crispy potatoes instead of soft potatoes

The potatoes are first boiled until tender, then gently smashed, drizzled with olive oil, seasoned with salt, and roasted until beautifully golden and crispy. This extra step transforms the texture completely.

Fresh and vibrant

Instead of relying on heavy mayonnaise, this salad uses fresh parsley, dill, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and peas to create an incredibly fresh dish.

Easy to prepare

Although roasting the potatoes takes a little extra time, the actual recipe is very simple. Most of the ingredients only require chopping and mixing together.

Perfect for every season

While it’s especially refreshing during warmer months, frozen peas make it easy to enjoy this salad throughout the year.

Naturally vegan

This recipe contains only plant-based ingredients while still being hearty and satisfying enough to serve as a light meal.

What Makes Smashed Potatoes Perfect for Potato Salad?

Traditional potato salads use boiled potatoes, which create a soft, creamy texture. While delicious, they sometimes become heavy or mushy.

Smashed potatoes completely change the experience.

After boiling, the potatoes are lightly pressed to flatten them before roasting in the oven. The edges become crispy while the centers stay fluffy and tender.

Once tossed with the fresh vegetables and dressing, the potatoes absorb all the delicious flavors without losing their wonderful texture.

The crispy edges also add an irresistible crunch that makes every bite more interesting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this smashed potato salad with peas is that every ingredient serves a purpose.

Potatoes

Use small to medium potatoes that hold their shape well after boiling. Once smashed and roasted, they become crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.

Frozen Peas

Frozen peas are incredibly convenient and naturally sweet.

Simply pour boiling water over them and let them sit for a few minutes before draining. This preserves their bright green color and fresh flavor.

Fresh Parsley

Parsley adds freshness and balances the richness of the roasted potatoes.

Flat-leaf parsley works especially well in this recipe.

Fresh Dill

Fresh dill brings a bright, slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with potatoes and peas.

It also complements the mint and sumac in the dressing.

Spring Onions

Spring onions provide a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salad.

They also add beautiful green color throughout the dish.

Cucumbers

Finely diced cucumber adds freshness and crunch.

It keeps the salad light and refreshing.

White Onion

Thin slices of white onion give the salad a little sharpness that balances the sweetness of the peas.

If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them.

Tomato

A diced tomato adds juiciness and another layer of freshness.

Choose a ripe but firm tomato to avoid excess moisture.

The Simple Mediterranean-Inspired Dressing

The dressing may be simple, but it ties everything together beautifully.

It includes:

Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Dried mint
Sumac
Chili flakes
Salt

Tips for the Best Smashed Potato Salad with Peas

Don’t overcook the potatoes

The potatoes should be fork tender but not falling apart.

Dry the potatoes well

Moisture prevents crisping.

Allow excess steam to evaporate before smashing.

Roast at high temperature

A hot oven creates beautifully crispy edges.

Don’t overcrowd the baking tray

Leave space between the potatoes so they roast rather than steam.

Add potatoes while warm

Warm potatoes absorb dressing exceptionally well.

Taste before serving

Fresh herbs and vegetables may require a little extra salt or vinegar.

Meal Prep Tips

This salad works wonderfully for meal prep.

Prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance.

Roast the potatoes shortly before serving if you want to keep them crispy.

Alternatively, prepare everything ahead and enjoy the softer texture after refrigeration.

Store the dressing separately for maximum freshness.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The potatoes will soften slightly, but the flavors become even better as they meld together. Stir gently before serving.

If desired, add a handful of fresh herbs just before eating to brighten the salad again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh peas?

Absolutely. Fresh peas work wonderfully when lightly cooked until tender.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Prepare all ingredients a day ahead. For maximum crispiness, roast the potatoes just before serving.

Which potatoes work best?

Baby potatoes, Yukon Gold, or other waxy potatoes hold their shape beautifully.

Can I skip the tomato?

Certainly. The salad remains delicious without it.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

Both options are delicious. Warm potatoes create a comforting salad, while chilled potatoes make it refreshing for hot weather.

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