Sweet potato salad is a delightful twist on the traditional potato salad, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

This recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes with crisp vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, and a zesty honey-lemon dressing, making it a perfect side dish for gatherings or a wholesome meal on its own.

Ingredients:

For the Salad: – 2 pounds (about 900g) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (150g) red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries or cherries
• 1/2 cup (60g) toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta or goat cheese
• 1/2 cup (75g) fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

For the Honey-Lemon Dressing: – 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1.5 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
   • Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
   • Remove from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Dressing:– In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:– In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, celery, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs.
   • Pour the honey-lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
   • Add the crumbled feta or goat cheese and give the salad a final gentle toss.
4. Serve:– Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Variations:

• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the dressing for a subtle heat.
• Vegan Option: Omit the cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.

Nutritional Benefits:

Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this salad a nutritious addition to your diet.

The combination of healthy fats from nuts and olive oil, along with the antioxidants from dried fruits and fresh herbs, enhances the overall health benefits of this dish.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

This sweet potato salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Its vibrant colors and textures make it an appealing addition to any meal.