Roasted Sweet Potato Salad

Roasted Sweet Potato Salad is the perfect blend of comfort and freshness. Caramelized, oven-roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and depth, while crisp greens, crunchy add-ins, and a bright, tangy dressing balance everything beautifully. This salad is satisfying enough to stand alone as a meal yet versatile enough to serve as a side dish for gatherings, meal prep, or holiday tables. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it delivers bold flavors, contrasting textures, and nourishing ingredients in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple sweet potatoes into something truly special. Roasting intensifies their flavor, and when paired with fresh greens and a zesty dressing, the result is a salad that feels cozy, healthy, and indulgent all at once. It’s also incredibly adaptable—you can change toppings, greens, or dressings to suit any season.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Naturally sweet and savory flavor balance
• Hearty yet fresh and nutritious
• Easy to customize with seasonal ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
• Can be served warm or cold

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~320 calories per serving (approx.)
• Course: Salad / Side Dish / Light Main
• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

For the Salad

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or kale)
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
• ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season Sweet Potatoes: Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
3. Roast: Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.
4. Prepare Dressing: Whisk all dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, add greens, onion, dried fruit, and nuts.
6. Combine: Top with warm roasted sweet potatoes, drizzle with dressing, and gently toss.
7. Finish: Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Peel and cube sweet potatoes evenly.
2. Toss with oil and seasonings.
3. Roast until golden and soft inside.
4. While roasting, whisk dressing ingredients.
5. Prep salad greens and toppings.
6. Add warm sweet potatoes to greens.
7. Drizzle dressing, toss gently, and garnish with cheese.

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How to Serve

Serve Roasted Sweet Potato Salad warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, or enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian meal. Add crusty bread or a light soup for a complete lunch or dinner.

Recipe Tips

• Cut sweet potatoes evenly for consistent roasting
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures caramelization
• Massage kale with olive oil if using for tenderness
• Add dressing just before serving to keep greens fresh
• Toast nuts for extra flavor and crunch

Variations (Detailed)

• Vegan: Skip cheese or use dairy-free feta
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or lentils
• Fall Version: Add roasted Brussels sprouts or apples
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or harissa
• Grain-Based: Toss in quinoa, farro, or couscous

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store assembled salad (without dressing) up to 3 days
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Can be refrigerated up to 4 days
• Freezing: Freeze roasted sweet potatoes only, up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat potatoes in oven or skillet before adding to salad

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Small whisk or jar for dressing
• Chef’s knife and cutting board

Conclusion

Roasted Sweet Potato Salad is a comforting yet fresh dish that highlights the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables paired with vibrant greens and a tangy dressing. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again—perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or special occasions.