Sweet potatoes have long been celebrated across cultures for their versatility and natural sweetness. This elegant preparation transforms humble sweet potatoes into a sophisticated side dish that marries Mediterranean and modern American flavors. The combination of honey-glazed sweet potatoes with tangy feta creates an impressive presentation perfect for both casual family dinners and elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
For 4-6 servings:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (approximately 900g/2 lbs), peeled and sliced into 6mm (1/4-inch) rounds
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) extra virgin olive oil
- 5g (1 teaspoon) ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 45ml (2-3 tablespoons) pure honey
- 120g (1/2 cup) crumbled feta cheese
- 15g (2 tablespoons) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 30g (1/4 cup) walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Position the rack in the middle of the oven. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or apply a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sweet Potato Preparation
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes thoroughly
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the sweet potatoes into uniform 6mm (1/4-inch) rounds
- Place the rounds in a large mixing bowl
- Drizzle with olive oil
- Season with cinnamon (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper
- Toss gently until each round is evenly coated
3. Roasting Process
- Arrange the seasoned rounds on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap
- Place in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes
- Remove from oven and carefully flip each round
- Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until edges are caramelized and centers are tender
4. Final Assembly
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes
- Drizzle warm rounds with honey
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese
- Add chopped nuts if using
- Garnish with fresh parsley
- Serve immediately while warm
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 230mg
Time Requirements:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Professional Cooking Tips
- For optimal caramelization, ensure sweet potatoes are completely dry before adding oil
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thick rounds, ensuring even cooking
- Allow adequate space between rounds on the baking sheet to achieve proper caramelization
- For best results, bring feta cheese to room temperature before crumbling
- Use high-quality honey for superior flavor development
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese Options:
- Replace feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture
- Use grated Parmesan for a nutty flavor profile
- Substitute with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version
- Seasoning Alternatives:
- Replace cinnamon with smoked paprika for a savory profile
- Add fresh rosemary or thyme for an herbal note
- Incorporate chili flakes for heat
- Sweetener Options:
- Substitute honey with maple syrup
- Use agave nectar for a vegan alternative
- Try pomegranate molasses for Middle Eastern flair
Common FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can roast the sweet potatoes up to 4 hours in advance and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings.
Q: Are these suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A: While possible, regular potatoes won’t provide the same natural sweetness that complements the honey and feta. If using regular potatoes, consider adjusting seasonings accordingly.
Q: How do I know when the sweet potatoes are perfectly done?
A: The rounds should be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. The edges should be slightly caramelized, and the centers should be tender.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Keep toppings separate if storing for optimal texture
- Avoid freezing as this can affect the texture significantly
Make-Ahead Strategy
- Slice sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing in cold water in the refrigerator
- Prepare nuts and herbs up to 2 days ahead, storing separately in airtight containers
- For entertaining, roast potatoes up to 4 hours ahead and reheat just before serving
- Add toppings only immediately before serving for best presentation and texture
This Mediterranean-inspired sweet potato dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Its elegant presentation and simple preparation make it suitable for both everyday dining and special occasions.
