Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

This Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad is a modern take on the traditional potato salad, with a deliciously aromatic twist. Roasting the potatoes enhances their natural sweetness while infusing them with a rich, garlicky flavor that makes this salad stand out. The crispy edges of the roasted potatoes combined with the creamy dressing create a perfect balance of textures, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, holiday meal, or as a weeknight dinner side, this salad is sure to impress.

Not only does this dish deliver incredible flavor, but it’s also loaded with nutrients. Potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, which help to fuel your body and keep you satisfied for longer periods. Garlic adds a burst of flavor and provides numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and immune system support. With its hearty yet light ingredients, this roasted potato salad is a healthier alternative to the classic mayonnaise-heavy version.

Servings and Prep Time

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

This roasted potato salad comes together quickly in under an hour, making it perfect for those busy days when you want to prepare something flavorful yet easy.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 pounds small or baby potatoes (Yukon Gold, red, or baby potatoes work best)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a little extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin by washing the potatoes thoroughly and cutting them into bite-sized chunks. If you’re using small baby potatoes, you can simply halve or quarter them, depending on their size. Pat the potatoes dry with a towel to remove any excess moisture, which will help them crisp up during roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While the potatoes are roasting, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more vinegar for acidity or more mustard for a stronger flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once the potatoes are roasted, allow them to cool slightly before tossing them into a large serving bowl. Add the chopped fresh parsley and red onion (if using) for an extra burst of color and flavor. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the potatoes and gently toss until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this garlicky roasted potato salad warm or at room temperature. It makes the perfect side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or even as a standalone dish for a light meal. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it an ideal dish for leftovers the next day!

Tips for Perfect Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: For the crispiest potatoes, be sure to spread them out evenly on the baking sheet. If they’re crowded together, they’ll steam instead of roast, and you’ll miss out on that delicious, crispy texture.

• Customize the Flavor: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced cloves to the roasting mix. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.

• Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. If making ahead, just make sure to let the potatoes cool slightly before adding the dressing so that they don’t become soggy.

• For Extra Creaminess: If you want an extra creamy version of this salad, consider adding a spoonful of sour cream to the dressing. It’ll make the salad richer and smoother while balancing out the bold flavors.

• Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste. You can add a hard-boiled egg for extra protein or incorporate some crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch. Add some diced cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad

This roasted potato salad is a winner in every way. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Roasting the potatoes instead of boiling them results in a delicious, crispy texture that adds depth and richness to the dish. The garlic and herbs elevate the flavor profile, making it more exciting than the typical potato salad. And with a creamy, tangy mustard dressing, each bite is full of bright, bold flavors that complement the potatoes perfectly.

This dish is great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a summer BBQ, or a holiday feast. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even as part of a vegetarian spread.

Nutritional Benefits of Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad

Potatoes are often misunderstood as a heavy, calorie-laden ingredient, but they can be a healthy addition to your diet when prepared properly. Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, potatoes are excellent for promoting digestion and supporting heart health. Garlic is another powerhouse ingredient, offering anti-inflammatory benefits and boosting the immune system. Combined with the freshness of parsley and the tangy dressing, this potato salad provides a healthy and satisfying dish that will leave you feeling nourished and content.

Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish or a comforting addition to your meal, this Garlicky Roasted Potato Salad is sure to become a go-to recipe. Enjoy the crispy, garlicky goodness with every bite!