why make this recipe
Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich taste of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It makes for a wonderful side at any meal or a tasty snack on its own.
how to make Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes
- ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup maple syrup + 2 tablespoons
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Directions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Clean and cut the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. You can leave the skin on for added texture or peel it off for a smoother finish. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).Season the Sweet Potatoes
In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato slices with melted butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each slice is evenly coated. Alternatively, you can place the ingredients in a ziplock bag, seal it, and shake to combine.Arrange for Roasting
Lay the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking tray. Make sure there’s space between each slice to promote even browning. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of roasting. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, checking for fork tenderness as the baking time nears completion.Prepare the Topping
While the sweet potatoes roast, mix the maple syrup, chopped walnuts, the remaining ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and thyme in a bowl. This topping will add a caramelized crunch to your sweet potatoes.Add the Topping
Remove the baking tray from the oven. Top each sweet potato slice with about 1 teaspoon of the walnut and maple mixture. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the topping caramelizes and the edges of the sweet potatoes turn golden.Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve as is, or for an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
how to serve Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
You can serve Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes as a side dish for dinner or as a tasty treat at breakfast. They also work great as a snack any time of the day. You can pair them with a salad or serve them alongside roasted meats for a complete meal.
how to store Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
To store leftover Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy that warm, sweet, and crunchy goodness again.
tips to make Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- For more flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the seasoning mix.
- Ensure that the sweet potatoes are cut into uniform pieces for even roasting.
- Check on the sweet potatoes while they bake to avoid overcooking. They should be tender but not mushy.
variation
You can swap out walnuts for pecans for a different nut flavor. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking can also enhance the taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other potatoes, but sweet potatoes give the best flavor and texture for this recipe.Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
To make it vegan, use a plant-based butter substitute and ensure your maple syrup is pure without additives.Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and mix the topping in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Large bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 0.5 cup walnuts, chopped
- 0.25 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.125 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes, then place them in a large bowl.
Mixing and Roasting
- In the bowl with sweet potatoes, add maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper; toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
- Remove the tray from the oven, stir in the chopped walnuts, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
Serving
- Serve the walnut maple roasted sweet potatoes warm as a delightful side dish.