Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This sweet potato with walnuts recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a simple yet impressive weekend meal. It's packed with nutrients, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your dinner routine with this delicious and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, thoroughly wash and peel your sweet potatoes. Cube them 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 cinnamon. Make sure the sweet potatoes are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly seasoned and tender result.
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Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this will ensure even browning.
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Toast the Walnuts: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, toast the walnuts in a separate dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. This step adds a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
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Combine & Finish: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven. Add the toasted walnuts, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar to the bowl. Gently toss to combine, ensuring the sweet potatoes are well coated with the delicious glaze.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve the sweet potato and walnut mixture immediately. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired. This dish is wonderful as a side or a light main course.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato with Walnuts:
- Sweet Potato Selection: Choose firm, heavy sweet potatoes without any bruises or soft spots.
- Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes while they're roasting. Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding prevents even roasting and can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add some herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle some crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese over the dish before serving for extra flavor.
- Other Nuts: Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. A general estimate per serving would be around 250-300 calories, depending on portion size. This makes it a healthy and satisfying meal option.
This sweet potato with walnuts recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Its delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with its ease of preparation, makes it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!