Description
A crispy and flavorful Honey Mustard Smashed Tater Tot Salad featuring crunchy smashed tater tots baked to perfection, tossed with a tangy honey mustard dressing, celery, red onion, and savory bacon bits. This hearty and unique salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for a satisfying side or casual meal.
Ingredients
Tater Tots
- 1 32-oz. bag Tater Tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Honey Mustard Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 Tbsp. honey
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. whole grain mustard
- 4 tsp. Dijon mustard
Salad Mix-Ins
- 3/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2/3 cup bacon bits (Hormel Black Label real bacon recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat and bake tater tots: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large or two medium baking sheets with parchment paper. Spread the tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet(s). Bake for 10 minutes to start cooking.
- Smash the tots: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully smash each tater tot using the flat bottom of a glass or mug. Ensure they are flattened but still intact. Season the smashed tots with salt and pepper.
- Finish baking tots until crispy: Return the smashed tots to the oven, making sure they remain in a single layer without crowding. Bake for an additional 18-22 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the honey mustard dressing: While the tots finish baking, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, whole grain mustard, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl until the dressing is smooth. Refrigerate if desired until ready to use.
- Mix the salad: Place the cooked crispy smashed tots in a large bowl. Add chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, and bacon bits. Pour in the honey mustard dressing gradually and gently toss the salad to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates and serve immediately to enjoy the best crispy texture and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use large baking sheets to avoid overcrowding the tots, which ensures maximum crispiness.
- If you don’t have a large baking sheet, divide the tots between two pans for even cooking.
- The smashed tots can be seasoned with additional spices such as smoked paprika or garlic powder if desired.
- Use real bacon bits for the richest smoky flavor; vegetarian bacon bits can substitute for a vegetarian version.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain the crispy texture of the tater tots.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-32 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
