Smashed potatoes are a simple and satisfying dish enjoyed by many around the world. The dish has origins in various cultures, but it is especially popular in the UK and the US. The idea behind smashed potatoes is to boil the potatoes until soft, then gently crush them for a rustic texture.
They can be served as a side dish or even as a light main, depending on your preference. Adding feta cheese makes this dish extra special, as the salty creaminess of the feta balances the softness of the potatoes beautifully.
The combination of potatoes and feta is not only delicious but also nutritious. Together, they make a hearty dish that can be enjoyed all year round. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a picnic, or a simple weekday meal, smashed potatoes with feta salad are sure to please everyone at the table.
Smashed Potato with Feta Salad Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for small or medium-sized potatoes to ensure even cooking and effortless smashing. Baby potatoes are particularly suitable for this recipe as they hold their shape while boiling well and offering a creamy texture.
- Boil with the Skins On: Boiling the potatoes with their skins intact enhances their flavour and retains more nutrients. The skins also provide a rustic texture that pairs beautifully with the feta.
- Add Creaminess to the Mash: For a richer taste, drizzle in a little melted butter, olive oil or even sour cream while mashing. This will create a velvety base that balances the sharpness of the feta.
- Create Extra Crunch: Elevate the texture of the salad by sprinkling roasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. For a bolder flavour, lightly season the nuts or seeds before toasting.
- Experiment with Cheeses: If feta isn’t available, substitute it with other creamy cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta or even crumbly blue cheese for a tangy twist.
- Enhance with Fresh Herbs: Boost the freshness by adding finely chopped herbs such as parsley, dill or chives. These herbs not only enhance the flavour but also brighten up the dish visually.
- Season Thoughtfully: Since feta is naturally salty, taste the salad before adding extra salt. Complement the flavours with a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity.
- Serve Warm or Cold: This salad is versatile and tastes fantastic whether served warm as a comforting side dish or cold for a refreshing lunch option.
- Layer Flavours with Spices: Sprinkle smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, or za’atar over the salad for a subtle depth of flavour that pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes and tangy cheese.
- Make it a Meal: Turn the salad into a complete meal by adding protein rich toppings like grilled chicken, chickpeas or crispy bacon. This makes it a hearty and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 500g small or medium potatoes (such as new potatoes or baby potatoes)
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, chopped into small cubes
- 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Begin by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the potatoes cook for 12–15 minutes or until they are soft when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and let them sit to cool slightly.
- Then, gently smash each potato with the back of a fork or a spoon. Don’t mash them completely. You want some chunks for texture.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped onion, cucumber and parsley. Add the crumbled feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Pour this dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together gently.
- Season the smashed potatoes with salt and pepper, then add the feta salad on top. Mix gently or serve the salad on the side, as you prefer.
Smashed potatoes with feta salad is a quick and tasty meal that requires little preparation. It’s perfect for those new to cooking and offers room for creativity with the ingredients. You can easily swap out the vegetables or cheese for what you have on hand. Enjoy this delicious combination as a side or a light main course.
For more BellyBelly’s salad recipes:
Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad
Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad : A Taste of the Rainbow
For more information on buying the right feta cheese for you, we recommend you review the following; Feta Cheese Guide.
