Name: Perfect Jamaican Jerk Potato Salad Recipe for Easy Caribbean Feasts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; 2-3 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2-3 scallions, finely chopped; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green); ½ cup finely diced red onion; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional but recommended)

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Introduction

Enjoy a vibrant twist on classic potato salad with this Perfect Jamaican Jerk Potato Salad. It’s bursting with bold Caribbean flavors, balanced by a creamy dressing and fresh vegetables, making it a fantastic side for any feast or casual gathering.

A white bowl filled with golden cooked potato chunks coated with a mix of green herbs and red spice flakes. Small pieces of purple onion and red chili bits are scattered on and around the potatoes, adding color contrast. The potatoes have a light, shiny texture from seasoning, and the dish looks fresh and vibrant. The background shows a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and diced
2–3 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
2–3 scallions, finely chopped
1 cup bell peppers, diced (red or green)
½ cup red onion, finely diced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Add the diced potatoes to a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10–15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, jerk seasoning, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Chop the scallions, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro, then set aside.
Step 4: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled potatoes with the chopped vegetables.
Step 5: Pour the dressing over the potato and vegetable mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra cilantro before serving if desired.

Tips & Variations

If the dressing feels too thick, add a splash of milk or water to achieve your preferred consistency.
For extra heat and authenticity, try making your own jerk seasoning with allspice, thyme, nutmeg, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet peppers.
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a firmer bite that holds its shape well.

Storage

Store the Jamaican Jerk Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed. For best flavor and texture, consume within this timeframe. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with several chunky pieces of yellow potatoes coated with a mix of finely chopped green herbs and red chili flakes, giving the potatoes a speckled look. Bright red chili slices and small purple onion chunks are scattered among the potatoes, adding contrast and texture. The herbs and spices cover the potatoes evenly, creating a colorful and fresh appearance with a slightly oily sheen. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with warm natural light highlighting the dish’s texture and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal to make the salad at least 30 minutes ahead to allow the flavors to develop. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.

What if I don’t have jerk seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of allspice, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a milder flavor, or make a homemade jerk seasoning blend for an authentic taste. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.