Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's also visually stunning? Look no further! This purple sweet potato recipe is bursting with flavor and color, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or a special occasion meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and requires minimal ingredients. This recipe is a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be while still delivering a truly delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 large purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, peel and cube the purple sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.
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Toss & Season: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Make sure all the pieces are evenly coated. This step is crucial for getting that perfectly seasoned sweet potato.
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Roast to Perfection: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lead to steaming instead of roasting. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Flip the sweet potatoes halfway through for even browning.
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Garnish & Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sweet potatoes cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish, or incorporate them into your favorite bowl or salad for a quick and healthy dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Purple Sweet Potatoes:
- Choosing Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, heavy sweet potatoes without any bruises or soft spots.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the sweet potato cubes are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this allows for proper air circulation and prevents steaming.
- Roasting Time: Roasting time may vary depending on the size of your sweet potato cubes and your oven. Check for doneness with a fork; they should be easily pierced.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herby Sweet Potatoes: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Sweet & Savory: A drizzle of maple syrup or honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Roasted with other Vegetables: Roast alongside other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a complete and nutritious meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes and the added ingredients. A typical serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the size of the sweet potato.
This easy and healthy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or incorporated into various meals. The vibrant color and delicious flavor make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!