Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: Roasting · Storage: 3-5 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
These Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any holiday gathering.
As the vibrant leaves fall across the streets of New York City, I find myself continually drawn to the warmth and comfort of seasonal dishes. Among the staples that scream Thanksgiving and Christmas to me is a cozy bowl of Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes. This dish captures the essence of autumn, perfectly balancing the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes with a delightful hint of maple syrup and a sprinkle of sea salt. Today, I'll guide you through every delectable step to create this recipe that will undoubtedly impress your holiday guests-and provide a dish worth returning to throughout the season.
A Perfect Holiday Side Dish
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes.
- Simple and quick preparation, making it an ideal side dish for any holiday meal.
- Delicious aroma that fills your kitchen and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Can be made ahead of time for convenient holiday meal prep.
- Versatile: great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy fall dinner.
Ingredients
This Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe requires the following ingredients:
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (garnet or jewel recommended)
Flavoring Ingredients
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (preferably organic)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (Maldon or flaky sea salt)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional toppings: chopped pecans or parsley for garnish
How to Make Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
This recipe for Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes is straightforward and rewarding.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). The anticipation of that warmth is the first step to creating a comforting dish!
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, sea salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Using my hands, I ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Step 3: Spread and Roast
Transfer the sweet potatoes to a lined baking sheet, spacing them out to prevent steaming. Roast them for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. You'll know they're ready when golden brown and easily pierced by a fork!
Step 4: Finishing Touches
When you take them out of the oven, a sprinkle of additional sea salt enhances that sweet-salty flavor. For a festive touch, I love adding chopped pecans or a sprinkle of parsley!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the pan: Make sure to give the sweet potatoes room to breathe and caramelize; otherwise, they will steam rather than roast.
- Skipping the preheating: A hot oven is crucial for achieving those beautifully browned edges-don't skip this step!
- Using low-quality maple syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup; the artificial stuff lacks the depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choose sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin for the best taste and texture.
- If you want to prepare ahead, cut the sweet potatoes and toss them with the maple mixture a few hours in advance; just keep them in the fridge until you're ready to roast.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
Variations
- Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for added texture and flavor.
- Incorporate spices such as nutmeg or ginger to enhance the warmth of the dish.
- Use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, as toppings for a unique crunch.
How to Serve
- Serve warm as a side dish for holiday gatherings.
- Top with chopped pecans and a sprinkle of parsley for a festive presentation.
- Pair with roasted meats or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Use as a flavorful filling for tacos or wraps for a unique twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Cut the sweet potatoes and toss them with the maple mixture a few hours in advance; store in the fridge until ready to roast.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a hot oven to regain crispness or warm in the microwave if short on time.
- Freezing: Not recommended for this recipe as the texture of sweet potatoes may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through numerous trials, I've discovered that the contrast of crispy edges and tender insides makes this dish absolutely addictive. This recipe not only pleases crowds but also provides an excellent opportunity to elevate your holiday table. Whether for Thanksgiving or an intimate Christmas gathering, I guarantee these Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes will be the star of your feast!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~180 calories · 2g protein · 36g carbs · 4g fat
Recipe by:
Savory Salted Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). The anticipation of that warmth is the first step to creating a comforting dish!
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, sea salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Using my hands, I ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Transfer the sweet potatoes to a lined baking sheet, spacing them out to prevent steaming. Roast them for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. You'll know they're ready when golden brown and easily pierced by a fork!
- When you take them out of the oven, a sprinkle of additional sea salt enhances that sweet-salty flavor. For a festive touch, I love adding chopped pecans or a sprinkle of parsley!
Notes
FAQs
What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using garnet or jewel sweet potatoes for their vibrant color and sweetness.
Can I prepare the sweet potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can cut the sweet potatoes and toss them with the maple mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep them in the fridge until you're ready to roast.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, toss them back in a hot oven or warm them in the microwave.
