Looking for a side dish that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors? Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes are the perfect blend of sweetness from maple syrup and the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty roast, a juicy steak, or a simple weeknight dinner, these sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why this dish is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory: The combination of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that’s irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasonings and add-ins to suit your preferences, making it a versatile side dish that’s sure to please.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings, ensuring that everyone will enjoy its delicious flavors.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, providing a naturally sweet and creamy base. You can use any variety of sweet potatoes, but orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work best due to their vibrant color and sweet flavor.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor to the sweet potatoes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences or use honey as a substitute for a different flavor profile.
Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar provides a tangy and slightly sweet note to the dish. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences or use red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil
Olive oil adds richness and helps the sweet potatoes achieve a crispy exterior. You can substitute it with avocado oil or any other high-heat cooking oil.
Rosemary
Rosemary adds an aromatic and slightly piney flavor to the dish. You can use fresh or dried rosemary, depending on what you have available. For a different flavor profile, use thyme or oregano.
Garlic
Garlic adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the sweet potatoes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences. For a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
How to Make Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that the sweet potatoes cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large bowl. This step ensures that the sweet potatoes are ready to be seasoned and roasted.
Step 3: Season the Sweet Potatoes
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the sweet potatoes and toss until the potatoes are evenly coated. This step creates a rich and flavorful base for the sweet potatoes.
Step 4: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown. Stir them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. This step ensures that the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and achieve a perfect crispy texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot. This step adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making the dish even more enjoyable.
Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large bowl.
- Season the Sweet Potatoes: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the sweet potatoes and toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown. Stir them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- You can adjust the amount of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
- For a lighter version, use low-sodium salt and reduce the amount of olive oil.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
Expert Tips for Success
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure the sweet potatoes are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking. This helps to achieve a consistent texture and prevents some potatoes from being undercooked or overcooked.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the sweet potatoes are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sweet potatoes and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional maple syrup to suit your preferences.
- Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavors to your liking.
Variations and Customizations
Dietary Modifications
- Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but ensure all ingredients used are certified vegan.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your ingredient labels to be sure.
- Low-Sugar: Reduce the amount of maple syrup or use a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
Flavor Twists
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage to the seasoning mixture for an herbal note.
- Citrus Burst: Add a tablespoon of orange zest and juice to the seasoning mixture for a bright and tangy citrus flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the sweet potatoes are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze the sweet potatoes for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled sweet potatoes to a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also use the microwave, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Add a splash of olive oil to help retain crispiness during reheating.
Serving Suggestions
These Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes pair beautifully with:
- Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing perfect for a hearty and comforting meal.
- Grilled Steak: The rich and savory flavors of steak complement the sweet and tangy notes of the sweet potatoes.
- Vegetable Side Dishes: Pair the sweet potatoes with other vegetable side dishes like sautéed spinach, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed these Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes, you might also like:
- Honey-Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, sticky, roasted sweet potatoes glazed with honey and spices.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy and flavorful roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
- Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes with a spicy kick, perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
Conclusion
Maple-Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their sweet and savory flavors, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal, they’re a dish that’s sure to impress.