There’s something special about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that bursts with flavor. As I prepared these Harissa Roasted Potatoes, a culinary adventure unfolded in my kitchen, igniting my senses with the vibrant aromas of toasted spices and fresh herbs. The moment I mixed the creamy plant-based yogurt with zesty lemon juice and a touch of harissa, I knew I was onto something extraordinary.
After a particularly hectic week, I was searching for a dish that not only satisfied my craving for comfort food but also brought excitement back to the dinner table. Enter these roasted baby potatoes: perfectly crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, all infused with the warmth of savory spices, fresh mint, and that unmistakable kick from the harissa paste. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also elevates any occasion, from casual weeknights to festive gatherings.
Join me as I walk you through crafting these delightful Harissa Roasted Potatoes, a recipe that promises to bring joy and zest back into your home cooking.
Why are Harissa Roasted Potatoes so special?
Crispy exterior: These potatoes boast a golden-brown crust, giving every bite a satisfying crunch.
Flavor explosion: The blend of harissa, yogurt, and spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Easy preparation: With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you’re set for success.
Impressive presentation: Serve them at gatherings, and watch your guests be amazed by their vibrant colors and enticing aroma.
Versatile side: Pair with meats, salads, or enjoy them on their own; they suit any meal!
Time-saving: With a 2-hour marinating time, the hands-on prep is quick, ensuring you can focus on enjoying your meal. Explore more delightful side dishes alongside these crowd-pleasers by checking out our section on easy vegetarian recipes.
Harissa Roasted Potatoes Ingredients
• Discover what makes these Harissa Roasted Potatoes truly remarkable with these essential ingredients.
For the Potatoes
• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes/fingerling potatoes – Their small size cooks evenly and adds a rustic touch to your dish.
For the Marinade
• 3/4 Cup unsweetened plant-based plain yogurt – This provides creaminess while being dairy-free, enhancing the potatoes’ texture.
• 2 tbsp + 1 tsp lemon juice – Freshness and acidity brighten the flavors, balancing the richness of the yogurt and spices.
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated – Adds a warm aroma and earthiness that complements the harissa beautifully.
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with robust flavor, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
• 2 tbsp corn starch – Ensures the potatoes get a crispy, golden crust when roasted.
For the Spices
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds – Toasting these seeds unlocks their fragrant oils, enhancing the overall aroma of the dish.
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds – Offers a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with the other spices.
• 1/4 cup harissa paste – The star of this dish, delivering a delightful kick of heat and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 tsp turmeric – Adds a lovely golden color and anti-inflammatory properties to your meal.
• 1/4 tsp ground cayenne (optional) – Adjust the heat level to your liking with this spiced bonus.
For Garnishing
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint – Offers a refreshing contrast to the spiced potatoes, perfect for finishing.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors, ensuring your potatoes are perfectly seasoned.
• 3 tbsp neutral oil – A good base for roasting, helping the potatoes crisp up beautifully.
How to Make Harissa Roasted Potatoes
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Toast spices: In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the coriander and cumin seeds for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to a spice grinder and pulse until coarse, setting aside for later.
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Mix marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, corn starch, ground spices, turmeric, cayenne (if using), and salt. This creamy marinade will infuse our potatoes with delightful flavor.
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Combine: Stir in the harissa paste, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed. The vibrant colors of the harissa will brighten your mixture!
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Coat potatoes: Add the baby potatoes to the spiced yogurt mixture, gently mixing until the potatoes are well-coated. You’ll want every potato to bask in that delicious marinade!
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Marinate: Cover the bowl with the potatoes and refrigerate for 2 hours. This step is crucial to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
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Preheat skillet: After marinating, preheat a non-stick skillet (cast iron works best!) on medium-high heat. Add oil to coat the bottom of the pan, creating the ultimate crisping surface.
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Roast: Place the marinated potatoes in the skillet and roast until a golden-brown crust forms, about 25-30 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking, reveling in those mouth-watering aromas!
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Finish and garnish: Turn off the heat, then stir in the chopped mint and remaining lemon juice. This refreshing touch will elevate your Harissa Roasted Potatoes!
Optional: Sprinkle additional fresh mint before serving for a burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Harissa Roasted Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover Harissa Roasted Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results, restoring crispiness.
Freezer: These potatoes can be frozen for up to 1 month. Spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
What to Serve with Harissa Roasted Potatoes?
These savory roasted potatoes create a flavorful centerpiece, inviting a world of delightful pairings to accompany them.
- Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy chicken with a hint of citrus complements the spices in the potatoes, creating a refreshing balance.
- Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic butter add a vibrant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the potatoes.
- Chickpea Salad: A fresh salad rich in protein enhances the meal while adding a refreshing texture among hearty dishes.
- Mediterranean Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa infused with herbs offers a nutty flavor, making it a satisfying counterpart to the spiced potatoes.
- Charred Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn brings a rustic charm that beautifully offsets the warmth of harissa.
- Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt sauce mirrors the creamy marinade, providing a cool dip for those crispy bites.
- Sparkling Rosé Wine: The bright acidity and fruity notes of a bubbly rosé elevate the meal, making it festive and enjoyable.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A sweet, caramelized dessert rounds off the meal with a tropical touch, contrasting the savory potatoes perfectly.
Expert Tips for Harissa Roasted Potatoes
- Choose the right potatoes: Opt for baby or fingerling potatoes for even cooking and that perfect crispy bite. Avoid larger potatoes as they take longer to cook and may become mushy.
- Marinate properly: Allow the potatoes to marinate for at least 2 hours. This step ensures the flavors deeply penetrate the potatoes, enhancing your Harissa Roasted Potatoes’ taste.
- Don’t skip toasting spices: Toasting the coriander and cumin seeds before grinding intensifies their aromas and flavors, transforming your potatoes into a delicious delight.
- Maintain even heat: When roasting, keep your skillet at medium-high heat for a beautiful, golden-crust exterior. Turning the potatoes occasionally helps achieve that perfect texture.
- Fresh herbs matter: Adding fresh mint at the end brightens the dish and balances the spiciness of the harissa. Enjoy those vibrant colors and flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Harissa Roasted Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the potatoes in the spiced yogurt mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for an even more delicious outcome. Simply follow the initial steps of mixing the marinade and coating the potatoes, then cover and refrigerate them. For best quality, ensure they are well-sealed to prevent any dryness. When you’re ready to enjoy your potatoes, just preheat your skillet, roast them as directed for 25-30 minutes, and finish with mint and lemon juice for a vibrant dish that’s just as delightful as when made fresh!
Harissa Roasted Potatoes Variations
Feel free to make these vibrant potatoes your own with delightful twists that tantalize the taste buds!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme along with mint for an aromatic boost that complements the harissa beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne or add sliced jalapeños to the yogurt marinade for an extra pop of heat that spice lovers will adore.
- Creamy Cheese: Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese just before serving for a tangy, creamy contrast that adds depth to each bite.
- Veggie Medley: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for additional color and texture, creating a heartier veggie dish that’s still packed with flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Substitute regular harissa with a smoky variety or add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade for that irresistible, charred taste.
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the mix for a Mediterranean flair that will transport your taste buds on a delightful journey.
- Nutty Addition: Top off the finished dish with toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch and a delightful nutty finish.
- Citrus Zing: Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a zesty brightness that pairs wonderfully with the warmth of the spices.
Explore these easy variations to tailor your Harissa Roasted Potatoes to your heart’s desire!
Harissa Roasted Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Harissa Roasted Potatoes?
I recommend using baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes for this recipe. Their small size allows for even cooking and they develop a wonderfully crispy exterior while remaining fluffy inside. Larger potatoes might take longer to cook, and you risk ending up with a mushy texture.
How should I store leftover Harissa Roasted Potatoes?
Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat. This method brings back their crispiness, which is essential for that delightful texture.
Can I freeze Harissa Roasted Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 1 month. Here’s how: first, spread the cooled roasted potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What if my harissa paste is too spicy for my taste?
Very! If you find the harissa too spicy, you can adjust the amount used or add more yogurt to your marinade. This will help balance the heat while still allowing you to enjoy that fantastic flavor. Alternatively, consider using a milder harissa paste or blending it with some tomato paste for a gentler taste.
Are Harissa Roasted Potatoes suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, they are! The recipe is entirely plant-based thanks to the use of unsweetened plant-based yogurt. Just make sure to check that all your ingredients, especially the spices and condiments, are vegan-friendly. This makes them perfect for potlucks or gatherings where you want to accommodate different dietary preferences.
How do I know when my potatoes are perfectly roasted?
Check for a crispy golden-brown crust on the outside, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes of cooking time, turning occasionally. You can also use a fork to check the tenderness; they should be soft on the inside but crispy outside. The enticing aroma that fills your kitchen is also a tell-tale sign that they’re ready to enjoy!
Harissa Roasted Potatoes That Will Impress Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the coriander and cumin seeds for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to a spice grinder and pulse until coarse.
- In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, corn starch, ground spices, turmeric, cayenne (if using), and salt.
- Stir in the harissa paste, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the baby potatoes to the spiced yogurt mixture, gently mixing until well-coated.
- Cover the bowl with the potatoes and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- After marinating, preheat a non-stick skillet on medium-high heat and add oil to coat the bottom.
- Place the marinated potatoes in the skillet and roast until a golden-brown crust forms, about 25-30 minutes.
- Turn off the heat, then stir in the chopped mint and remaining lemon juice.