Description
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons maple syrup
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Remove from the oven and toss with dried cranberries and pepitas.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect roasted sweet potatoes every time. First, ensure your sweet potato cubes are uniform in size, about 1-inch pieces, for even cooking. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded to allow for proper caramelization. Roast for 15 minutes, then use a spatula to carefully flip each piece. Continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes until the edges are crispy and the centers are fork-tender.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be served in numerous ways. For a hearty vegetarian main, serve it over a bed of quinoa or farro with a dollop of Greek yogurt. It makes an excellent festive side for holiday meals alongside roast turkey or ham. For a quick lunch, add it to a bowl of fresh spinach or arugula with crumbled goat cheese. You can also use the leftovers as a flavorful topping for a breakfast hash with fried eggs.
How-to Summary
Cube sweet potatoes and toss with a maple-cinnamon oil mixture. Roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until caramelized, flipping halfway. Toss the hot potatoes with dried cranberries and pepitas so the cranberries plump slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave. Add the cranberries, pepitas, and fresh garnish just before serving.
What can I use instead of maple syrup? Honey or agave nectar are excellent substitutes. For a sugar-free version, use a sugar-free maple syrup or a touch of orange juice for natural sweetness.
Are pepitas the same as pumpkin seeds? Pepitas are a specific, shell-less variety of pumpkin seed. You can use regular roasted, unsalted pumpkin seeds if pepitas are unavailable.
How do I prevent the potatoes from getting soggy? The key is the single layer on the baking sheet and a hot oven. Avoid overcrowding, as steaming will make them soft. Flipping halfway through is also crucial for even crisping.
Can I add other spices? Absolutely. A pinch of smoked paprika, nutmeg, or ground ginger would complement the flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting the sweet potato cubes too small, as they will burn before cooking through. Do not skip the step of flipping the potatoes halfway through roasting; this ensures all sides caramelize. Resist the urge to stir the potatoes instead of flipping, as proper flipping exposes new surfaces to the hot pan. Do not add the dried cranberries before roasting, as they will burn and become bitter. Finally, ensure your baking sheet is not overcrowded, which leads to steaming instead of roasting.
Conclusion
This Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potato dish is a simple yet impressive combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. With minimal prep time, it delivers maximum flavor and is adaptable to various dietary needs. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a reliable, crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The balance of warm spices, natural sweetness, and fresh garnish makes it a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again.