Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A Delicious and Nutritious Side Dish

Roasted sweet potatoes are a flavorful, nutrient-rich dish that complements any meal. Their natural sweetness, enhanced by caramelization during roasting, pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or part of a main course, roasted sweet potatoes offer a perfect balance of taste and health benefits. They are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a wholesome diet. This easy-to-make recipe ensures crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside sweet potatoes with a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional for a sweet version)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

  • Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
  • Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
  • Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly-sized cubes or wedges to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Season the Sweet Potatoes

  • Place the sweet potato pieces in a large mixing bowl.
  • Drizzle olive oil over them and toss well to coat evenly.
  • Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme over the sweet potatoes.
  • If making a sweet version, add cinnamon and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
  • Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the sweet potatoes are well coated with seasoning.

Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

  • Spread the sweet potato pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Avoid overcrowding to allow proper roasting and crispiness.

Step 5: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
  • Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  • The sweet potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the edges while tender inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  • Serve hot as a side dish with grilled meats, salads, or as a snack with dipping sauces.
  • Enjoy the perfect combination of crispiness, natural sweetness, and rich flavors in every bite!

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