Why Make This Sweet Potato Salad
Sweet Potato Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring earthy roasted sweet potatoes, crisp vegetables, and creamy avocado, this salad combines an array of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Ideal as a side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or even as a light lunch, this sweet potato salad also offers a wealth of health benefits. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while black beans and corn add fiber and protein, making this salad not only delicious but also a wholesome choice.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 280
- Protein: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 300 mg
How to Make Sweet Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked black beans
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
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Step 2: Roasting
Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large baking dish. Spread them out to ensure they roast evenly. Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even coloring.
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Step 3: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes with diced red onion, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and diced avocado. Be sure to mix gently to keep the avocado from smushing.
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Step 4: Finishing
Drizzle the salad with fresh lime juice and toss gently once more. Finish by garnishing with chopped cilantro before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Salad
Serve this Sweet Potato Salad warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying vegetarian meal. For a more substantial dish, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. A sprinkle of feta cheese could also enhance its flavor and creaminess.
How to Store Sweet Potato Salad
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider storing the roasted sweet potatoes separately from the other ingredients. The sweet potatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months, but the other salad components are best fresh.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Salad
- Ensure even cooking by cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes.
- Experiment with spices! Adding cumin or paprika to the sweet potatoes before roasting can elevate the flavor profile.
- For added crunch, throw in some pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts just before serving.
- If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a delightful contrast.
Delicious Variations
- Mexican Sweet Potato Salad: Add diced jalapeños, cilantro lime dressing, and crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping.
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives, cucumber, and feta cheese, then toss with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.
- Asian-Inspired: Add sesame oil, chopped green onions, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a delicious spin.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the roasted sweet potatoes and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine them with the other ingredients when ready to serve. - Can I use other types of potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are key for this recipe, you can experiment with other root vegetables like butternut squash or regular potatoes if you prefer. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients used in this Sweet Potato Salad are naturally gluten-free. - What can I substitute for black beans?
You can use kidney beans, chickpeas, or even quinoa for a different texture and flavor while maintaining nutritional balance. - How can I add more protein?
Try adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or nuts for an extra protein boost.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a flavorful and vibrant recipe that’s simple to prepare. With its blend of textures and flavors, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or simply enjoy the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, this salad is a delightful choice. Give it a try, and enjoy the burst of colors and tastes that come with every bite!
Print
Sweet Potato Salad
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant salad featuring roasted sweet potatoes, crisp vegetables, and creamy avocado, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked black beans
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large baking dish. Spread them out to ensure they roast evenly. Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes with diced red onion, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and diced avocado. Mix gently to keep the avocado from smushing.
- Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently again. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the sweet potatoes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
