Spicy North African Potato Salad

Spicy North African Potato Salad

This Spicy North African Potato Salad offers a vibrant fusion of tender potatoes, fiery harissa, and fresh herbs, creating a flavorful and refreshing side dish. Perfectly balanced with creamy feta and crunchy pine nuts, it delivers a delightful kick with every bite.

Vegetarian

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

20 min

Servings

4

Originating from the rich culinary traditions of North Africa, this Spicy North African Potato Salad beautifully showcases the region's love for bold, aromatic spices such as harissa—a fiery chili paste that adds depth and warmth to many dishes. Potato salads are often a versatile staple in Mediterranean and North African cuisines, pairing well with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian delight. The combination of tender, hearty potatoes with peppery rocket and the creamy tang of feta cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The addition of fresh mint and the crunch of toasted pine nuts offer refreshing and nutty notes that brighten the dish. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a colorful side for your dinner, this salad calls for simple ingredients but results in a bold statement of taste. It pairs wonderfully with grilled lamb, chicken, or a chilled glass of white wine, making it a versatile accompaniment for many occasions.

Ingredients

  • 650 g/1lb 8 oz Small Potatoes
  • 1 tsp Harissa Spice
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • juice of half Lemon
  • 4 Spring onions
  • 150 g/6oz Rocket
  • 80 g/3oz Feta
  • 20 chopped Mint
  • 2 tablespoon Pine nuts
  • Pinch Salt
  • Pinch Pepper

Instructions

Begin by placing the small potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Slowly bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow the potatoes to cook gently for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender—test them by inserting a knife; it should slide through easily without resistance. While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the vibrant dressing by whisking together the harissa spice, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will infuse your salad with a smoky, spicy kick balanced by a bright citrus touch. Once the potatoes have reached the perfect tenderness, drain them thoroughly and let them cool slightly. Then, roughly chop each potato into halves to preserve some texture and bite. In a large bowl, combine the chopped potatoes with the harissa dressing and finely sliced spring onions. Toss gently to ensure each piece is generously coated with the spicy marinade. Next, lay a bed of fresh, peppery rocket leaves on a large salad platter. Spoon the spiced potato mixture evenly over the greens and toss lightly to combine the flavors and textures. To finish, crumble the creamy feta cheese over the top, sprinkle with fresh chopped mint for a burst of herbal freshness, and scatter toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving. Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, consider toasting the pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet until golden brown before adding them to the salad. This will enhance their nutty aroma and add an irresistible crunch.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4