Crisp smashed potatoes topped with silky smoked salmon, tangy crème fraîche, and fresh herbs make an elegant appetizer or brunch centerpiece with bold flavor and irresistible texture.

Preheat oven to 300°F. Squeeze potatoes to remove excess water, and then transfer to a medium bowl, toss with butter, and season to taste with salt and pepper. In an 8- to-10-inch ovenproof frying pan ...