Simple ingredients with unique, bold flavors. If you’re new to harissa, this spicy Tunisian chili paste will not disappoint in its flavor and versatility in this harissa potatoes recipe.
WHAT’S NEW?
Mark and I went on a Caribbean cruise where I completely checked out for a week. We hiked, we biked, and we chilled on the beach. While I’m never one to turn down travel, traveling the week BEFORE Christmas was just a little ill-timed with work, Santa, and before-break school stuff, but we thoroughly enjoyed nonetheless. We returned for a few days of work and holiday prep before traveling the midwest for Christmas before returning for a few more days of work to wrap up 2025 and blast our way into 2026. I believe for the first time, we were OUT until after midnight to ring in the new year and the kids thought that was pretty sweet.
I saw a meme the other day about it being the 42nd day of December and confusion on bedtime, mealtime, and overall motivation for any form of adulting…and I felt that so completely. We are enjoying the start of January at home with no where to be and if I’m being honest, these are my most favorite days. I have my family, a stocked kitchen, and my little workout oasis in the basement – I’m good to go! A little time in the kitchen to get creative and whip up a new potato recipe with my remaining CSA potatoes is the perfect match for a day like today!
ROLL CALL FOR THIS RECIPE
- Those Who Like it Hot: Sure, harissa has some kick but I took it up an extra notch with a bit of ground cayenne, too!
- Vegans: Serve up your vegan friends and family these red potatoes they won’t soon forget!
- Simple Side Dish Seekers: Steamed veggies…again? Psh! These harissa potatoes make for the perfect side dish!
KEY INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTIONS
- Potatoes: Any potato goes, however I lean towards red baby potatoes or yukon gold potatoes. Fingerling potatoes would be fabulous, too. That said, use what you have or get wild and try a sweet and savory combination by using sweet potatoes.
- Olive Oil: Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil offers full, rich flavor and health benefits. Using oil in addition to the harissa helps get the potatoes golden brown.
- Harissa: Made from roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, and caraway, harissa has a complex flavor profile offering smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. You can typically find mild varieties, if preferred.
- Salt: Harissa is generally low in sodium, so a bit of salt enhances the flavor of both the potatoes as well as the harissa sauce.
- Cayenne: Known for its firey heat, a little bit goes a long way.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best, however use more, less, or omit, if preferred!
NUTRITIONAL MERITS
- Vegan (dairy-free)
- Naturally gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free
- Minimally processed, made from whole food sources
- Contains heart-healthy fats and fiber
FAQ
I like spicy food, but I’m worried harissa and cayenne will be too spicy. Any tips?
If in doubt as to whether or not to use cayenne, try the harissa on its own and go from there. You can always add spice, but you can’t take it away!
These turned out spicy! Any advice to tame the fire?
Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a cooling yogurt dip made with plain yogurt, salt, pepper, lemon zest and juice, and fresh mint. Both approaches will help tame that spicy kick!
Why do you bother flipping your potatoes half way through roasting?
To achieve best results, flip potatoes halfway through roasting ensures even cooking and helps create those crispy skins with fluffy insides by exposing all sides of the potatoes to heat.
What main dish do you recommend serving with these potatoes?
A simple roast chicken or grilled proteins and veggies – anything from steak to cauliflower – go beautifully with these potatoes.
VARIATIONS, STORAGE, and TIPS
- Roast potatoes in a single layer, using a second baking sheet with parchment paper, if needed, to prevent overcrowding
- For a change of pace, try carrots or other veggies in place of potatoes
- Add fresh garlic or garlic powder, onion powder, or different spices or seasonings of your choice to create new or adapted flavors
- Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 6 days
Harissa Roasted Potatoes
Simple ingredients with unique, bold flavors. If you're new to harissa, this spicy Tunisian chili paste will not disappoint in its flavor and versatility in this harissa potatoes recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs potatoes, 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup harissa
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cayenne
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, harissa, salt, cayenne, and pepper until well-combined.
- Place cubed potatoes in a gallon-sized ziplock and pour harissa sauce over the top. Securely close the bag and shake potatoes to coat evenly.
- Spread potatoes in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 40 minutes, stirring half way through and arranging again in a single layer.
Seeking more veggie-based side dishes?
- BBQ Roasted Carrots with Honey-Whipped Ricotta
- Olive Oil and Rosemary Roasted Baby Potatoes
- Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
- Green Bean Casserole with Cauliflower Cream
- Chili Lime Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli
- Balsamic Green Beans with Almonds
- Baked Green Bean Fries with Basil Aioli
Be well,
