Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad
Meet the Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad — a delightful twist on your classic potato salad. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with fresh herbs and a zesty dressing. Perfect for any season, it’s a vibrant dish that’s as flavorful as it is colorful.
Ingredients for Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad
The star here is definitely the sweet potatoes, offering a naturally sweet and hearty base. Olive oil helps them crisp up in the oven while adding a subtle richness. A touch of salt and black pepper enhances their natural flavor.
Then, we have the fresh herbs: parsley, chives, and dill, each bringing their unique flavor profiles—from peppery to oniony to slightly tangy. The cherry tomatoes add a juicy, fresh bite, while the feta cheese introduces a creamy, salty contrast.
For the dressing, lemon juice adds brightness, Dijon mustard provides a hint of sharpness, and honey ties it all together with a touch of sweetness.
Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad Tips & Tricks
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are cut into uniform pieces for even roasting.
- Let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before combining with the herbs to prevent wilting.
- Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving Ideas for Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent side for a summer barbecue. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty lentil dish or a creamy risotto. It's also great on its own for a light, refreshing lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and the dressing ahead of time. Combine all ingredients just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
- Can I use different herbs?
- Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add herbs such as cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad Recipe Walkthrough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze. In a large bowl, toss your peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this will help them roast evenly.
Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for them to be tender with a slight crisp on the edges. Meanwhile, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl to make your dressing. Set it aside for later.
Once the sweet potatoes have cooled, it's time to bring everything together. In a serving bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes with the chopped parsley, chives, dill, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and give it a gentle toss to coat everything evenly.
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad just before serving. The feta should sit on top for a lovely presentation.
Why This Herb-Infused Sweet Potato Salad Works
- Roasted sweet potatoes bring a caramelized depth of flavor.
- Fresh herbs add a burst of color and aroma.
- Zesty lemon dressing perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Quick and easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread the potatoes on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
- 4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey to create the dressing.
- 5. Once the sweet potatoes are cool, combine them with parsley, chives, dill, and cherry tomatoes in a serving bowl.
- 6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- 7. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.