Smashed Potatoes

Did you know that September is National Potato Month? It’s a perfect time to check out ways to prepare familiar potatoes with a new twist.

We featured these potatoes at our family Labor Day gathering which didn’t go as planned! So – sorry, no photo at this time.

Ingredients:

Potatoes:

 2 1/2 lb. new potatoes or small round potatoes (about 20) See notes.

 kosher salt

 2 tbsp. olive oil, divided, plus more for the pan

Toppers:

 Mix 1 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted, 2 large cloves garlic, pressed, 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, 1/4 c. flat-leaf parsley, chopped, (tossed before broiling)

 Grated Parmesan Cheese (toss with potatoes before broiling)

 Taco Seasoning (sprinkled before baking)

 Salt and chopped parsley (sprinkled before baking)

 Taco seasoning, grated cheddar cheese, pickled red onion, and jalapeno, diced tomato, and cilantro

(Topped after broiling)

 Ranch seasoning (before baking), then topped after broiling with crumbled bacon, and chopped chives

 Cayenne pepper sauce, crumbled blue cheese, and sliced scallions (topped after broiling)

Method:

 Heat oven to 450°F after arranging racks so one is 6” from broiler.

 Place potatoes in a large pot. Add enough water to cover by 2 in. and bring to a boil. Add 1 Tbsp salt, reduce heat, and simmer until tender, 15 to 22 minutes. Drain.

 Spread 1 Tbsp oil on a large, rimmed baking sheet.

 Place each potato on the sheet and, with the bottom of a glass, gently press until crushed but still intact.Brush all tops with part of 1 Tbsp oil

Sprinkle or toss with additional seasoning if using, as noted with topper options

 Roast on middle oven rack 25 minutes.

 Brush potatoes with remaining oil, then broil on rack 6” from broiler until golden brown and crisp, 4-7 minutes. Sprinkle with ¼ tsp salt. Serve immediately or top as desired.

Notes and Options:

Choose potatoes that are about 2” in diameter. This size allows a smashed potato that is more uniform shape that roasts evenly.

I always cover the pan with foil to make clean up easier.

Okay…so the delicious Blue Sky Vegetable Co. Cayenne pepper sauce isn’t available yet. Watch for it. It’s worth the wait!