Smashed Potatoes & Herb Lemon Dip

I freaking love potatoes. This is one of the best recipes I ever pulled together using what I had on hand in my garden and pantry. These crispy yet tender potatoes taste like thick cut fries. I had to force myself out of the kitchen so I wouldn’t eat all of them. The dipping sauce makes an excellent marinade for grilled beef, chicken, or fish. Make extra to store in fridge for this purpose, it’s perfect for summer grilling.

Ingredients for potatoes:

2 lbs baby red or yellow potatoes
Olive oil
Salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic, powder, smoked paprika. After the salt and pepper the rest of the seasonings are optional. Totally cool to keep it simple with just the S&P.

Herb Lemon Dipping Sauce:
2 cups fresh mixed herbs of your choice. I used rosemary, parsley, basil, and oregano.
3 large cloves fresh garlic
1/2 cup olive or avocado oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3/4 salt, 1/2 tsp pepper

Heat oven to 450. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Cover, bring to a boil, and reduce heat to medium high. Boil for about 20 minutes until fork tender. Remove potatoes and place in a large bowl or deep aluminum pan. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the seasonings of your choice. Use a spatula to gently but thoroughly coat the potatoes. On a cutting board, using the flat bottom of a glass, carefully press down on each potato until 1/2 inch thick. Do this while the potatoes are still hot so they’re workable. Place on the baking sheet. I lightly sprayed mine with avocado oil spray. Bake in middle rack for 27 to 30 minutes until crispy and edges are golden brown. Move to top rack if you need it crispier (I did, every oven is different). We want a crisp outside with a tender inside.

Make sauce while baking. Mix all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Adjust oil and seasonings to achieve a desired, smooth consistency that’s right for dipping or drizzling. Serve immediately and enjoy!