Spring onion, tahini and harissa smash potato salad

Smashed potato salad season has arrived

Looking for a smashed potato salad with a twist? Meet the Middle Eastern-inspired potato salad you didn’t know you needed – my spring onion, tahini and harissa smash potato salad. This has everything going for it, and by that I mean that it’s creamy, spicy, tangy, and crunchy in all the right places. It’s the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, Easter buffets or just when you want to give your basic spud salad a big, bold upgrade.

I’ve taken crispy smashed potatoes (which I typically get a bit obsessed over) and given them the salad glow-up with a mouth watering tahini-harissa dressing and loads of crunchy spring onions for a bit of added texture. It’s light yet indulgent, spicy but balanced, and honestly, I could eat the whole bowl straight from the fridge. Please don’t judge.

The dressing that delivers

Aside from potatoes, this creamy, punchy dressing is the star of the show and is made from:

• Rose harissa (a spicy, fragrant chilli paste)

• Tahini (rich sesame paste)

• Greek yoghurt

• Mayonnaise

• Lemon juice

• Spring onions

• Nigella seeds

• Salt & pepper

It’s loaded with Middle Eastern flavour and it clings to each golden edge of the smashed potato like an absolute dream.

FAQs

What is rose harissa and how is it different?

Rose harissa is a North African chilli paste that includes rose petals or rose water for a subtle floral note. It’s slightly sweeter and more complex than regular harissa, with layers of spice and smokiness. Think of it as harissa’s fancy cousin, so still fiery, but with depth and a little hint of perfume from the rose. Basically, it’s really nice.

What else can I use harissa for?

Once you’ve got a jar open and need to use it asap, you can stir rose harissa into:

• Marinades for chicken, lamb or tofu

• Soups and stews

• Pasta sauces (spicy tomato harissa rigatoni is a go-to)

• Roasted veg (try it on carrots or cauliflower)

• Toasted sandwiches or mayo to add a spicy element

What is tahini?

Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, and it’s a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking. It’s rich, nutty, slightly bitter, and creamy, kind of like a seed butter. It adds silkiness that balances spicy or citrusy ingredients beautifully. Most people may recognise it from adding it to hummus. And who doesn’t love to dunk some pitta in a tub of hummus?!

What else can I use tahini for?

Tahini isn’t just for hummus, oh no babs. Try it in:

• Salad dressings or dips

• Tahini brownies or cookies

• Stirred into porridge with honey

• Swirled into roasted veg

• Drizzled over toast or pancakes

It’s a really versatile ingredient and lasts for ages in the cupboard so don’t throw the pot out! Make sure you use up the full thing. 

How long will this potato salad keep?

This smashed potato salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container, but to be honest it’s best enjoyed fresh as once the dressing has been added, the crunchiness will start to die down a little. Best served slightly chilled or at room temp. 

Will it be spicy?

It has a gentle heat, thanks to the harissa, but it’s well balanced by the creamy tahini, mayo and yoghurt. If you’re heat-sensitive, you can either simply use less harissa, add a drizzle of honey or swap for a milder paste or paprika. 

How can I make it vegan?

Yep! So to make it vegan you’d need to use a plant-based mayo or even a coconut yoghurt. I’d check the tahini and harissa are definitely vegan, most are but always worth a double check! Everything else should be good to go!

Try out my Roast Potato Seasoning for an easy win

P.s. my seasoning is also vegan! Coat your smashed spuds in this unique blend for a super quick and simple way to spruce up your spuds. Grab your roast potato seasoning sachet now!