Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests at a holiday gathering? Look no further! This recipe for baked apples and sweet potatoes is a delightful combination of sweet and savory, healthy and satisfying. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, wash and prepare your sweet potatoes and apples. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Core and chop the apples into similar-sized pieces.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato and apple pieces with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure all the pieces are evenly coated. If using nuts, add them now.
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Bake: Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the apples are softened and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through baking for even cooking.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This delicious side dish is perfect alongside roasted chicken, pork, or even as a standalone vegetarian meal.
Tips for the Best Baked Apples and Sweet Potatoes:
- Sweet Potato Selection: Choose firm, heavy sweet potatoes for the best results. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes.
- Apple Variety: The type of apple you choose will affect the sweetness and texture of the dish. Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are great choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the spices to your liking. A dash of ginger or a pinch of allspice can add interesting flavor notes.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry sweet potatoes and apples. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes and adjust baking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Cranberry Bliss: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries for a tart and festive twist.
- Citrus Zest: A little orange or lemon zest adds a bright, refreshing element.
- Herbs de Provence: Incorporate a teaspoon of Herbs de Provence for a savory and aromatic flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-45g
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
This baked apples and sweet potatoes recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes you can easily prepare at home. It’s a healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!