Roasted sweet potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. With their naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture, they pair perfectly with a variety of proteins and veggies. Not only are they tasty, but they also boast impressive nutritional benefits, making this dish a great addition to your dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
Roasted sweet potatoes are not only easy to prepare, but they also offer a range of flavors and textures that can suit anyone’s palate. Whether enjoyed as a simple side or dressed up with spices and seasonings, they bring a comforting warmth to meals. Plus, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
How to Make Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Creating roasted sweet potatoes is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Whether you prefer a simple version or one packed with flavorful seasonings, you will find a method that suits your taste.
Ingredients
To make delicious roasted sweet potatoes, gather these:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3 large, I like Red Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes best, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil, or 2 tablespoons olive oil (personal preference)
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (reduce if using table salt)
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar (firmly packed, for plain version)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (for seasoned version)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder (optional, for seasoned version)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for seasoned version)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for seasoned version)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for seasoned version)
Directions
Plain Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Place the diced sweet potatoes on your largest sheet pan.
- Drizzle the melted coconut oil over the potatoes and sprinkle with sea salt and brown sugar. Toss until all the pieces are evenly coated.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in an even layer. Avoid overlapping to prevent steaming.
- Roast in the oven, flipping the sweet potatoes every 10-15 minutes. Bake for 27-35 minutes total, preferably flipping every 10 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Seasoned Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Transfer the sweet potatoes to a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, and add salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes out on the pan, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Roast for a total of 27-35 minutes, flipping every 10-15 minutes until they are perfectly golden and soft.
Pro Tips for Success with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for varieties like Red Garnet or Jewel for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Uniform Size Matters: Cutting the sweet potatoes into even 1/2-inch pieces ensures they cook uniformly.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the sweet potatoes out on the baking sheet so they roast instead of steam.
- Experiment with Cooking Times: Depending on your oven, roasting times may vary. Keep an eye on them to avoid under or overcooking.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can enhance the dish’s flavor significantly.
- Taste as You Go: If experimenting with spices, taste the potatoes before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
Flavor Variations for Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Herb-Infused: Toss sweet potatoes with a mix of fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an herby twist.
- Sweet and Spicy: Combine maple syrup with chili powder for a sweet and spicy glaze.
- Citrus Zest: Add a twist of lime or lemon juice before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted sweet potatoes for tangy sweetness.
- Parmesan Herb: Sprinkle grated Parmesan and Italian herbs on the sweet potatoes during the final minutes of roasting.
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes can stand out as a side dish on their own or complement various main courses. Here are some ideas:
- Pair with Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a savory lentil stew.
- Mix with Greens: Try them over a bed of spinach or kale to create a nutritious salad bowl.
- Tacos or Burritos: Use roasted sweet potatoes as a filling for vegetarian tacos or burritos for a twist on traditional ingredients.
- Breakfast Bowls: Top with eggs, avocado, or feta cheese for a hearty breakfast option.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Refrigeration: Store any leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to five days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze your roasted sweet potatoes, make sure they are completely cooled. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to freezer-safe bags. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg (varies with added salt)
FAQ About Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Can you leave the skin on sweet potatoes when roasting?
Sure! Leaving the skin on sweet potatoes adds extra fiber and can enhance texture. Just be sure to scrub the skin thoroughly to remove any dirt.
What is the difference between sweet potatoes and yams?
Though often confused, sweet potatoes and yams are different. Sweet potatoes are smoother and have a sweeter taste, while yams are starchier and drier.
Can I use another oil instead of coconut or olive oil?
Yes, you can use other neutral oils like canola, avocado, or sunflower oil. However, each type of oil may impart a slightly different flavor.
Are roasted sweet potatoes healthy?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are a nutritious option, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are low in calories while being high in vitamins A and C.
Can I roast sweet potatoes and reheat them later?
Yes, roasted sweet potatoes reheat well in the oven or microwave. You might want to add a splash of oil or a touch of seasoning to revive their flavor.
Final Thoughts
Roasted sweet potatoes are a simple yet flavorful dish that can easily be tailored to your personal taste. Their sweet and savory profile makes them an excellent addition to any meal, whether you enjoy them plain or seasoned. Try out the various suggestions and variations in this article to make this dish your own. Embrace the deliciousness of roasted sweet potatoes, and enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Print
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Deliciously roasted sweet potatoes, a versatile side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Transfer the sweet potatoes to a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with oil, and add salt, brown sugar, and optional seasonings. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the sweet potatoes out on the pan without overlapping.
- Roast for a total of 27-35 minutes, flipping every 10-15 minutes until golden and tender.
Notes
For variations, try adding herb mixes or spices like maple syrup for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
