This sweet potato salad is a tasty mix of creamy avocado and tender sweet potatoes. It’s colorful, healthy, and perfect for any meal!
I love how this dish brings a bright, cheerful vibe to my table. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up. Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the salad, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could use butternut squash or regular potatoes as alternatives.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. For a budget-friendly option, you can try using a little scoop of Greek yogurt instead; it’ll give some creaminess as well!
Red Onion: The red onion gives a nice crunch and sharpness to balance the dish. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute it with green onions or shallots.
Herbs: I love using cilantro for its fresh flavor, but parsley can easily replace it if you’re not a fan. Fresh herbs are key for brightness!
How Do You Roast Sweet Potatoes for Optimal Flavor?
Roasting sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness and creates a delicious caramelized flavor. It’s important to follow a few key steps:
- Cut sweet potatoes into even cubes to ensure they cook uniformly. Aim for 1-inch pieces.
- Toss them in olive oil and spices before roasting to add flavor and help them caramelize.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents steaming and promotes browning.
- Roast until tender and golden, about 25-30 minutes, and give them a stir halfway through!
Let them cool slightly before adding to your salad for the best texture! Enjoy making this vibrant dish!
Sweet Potato Salad With Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens (optional, for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to roast the sweet potatoes, making the total time approximately 40 minutes. You’ll enjoy a delicious salad that’s colorful and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This helps the sweet potatoes roast nicely and makes for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through so they cook evenly. They should be tender and lightly caramelized when done. Once roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the roasted sweet potatoes, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley). Gently toss the ingredients together to combine those lovely flavors without mashing the avocado.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the lime juice. Pour this dressing over the salad mix and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Season with extra salt and pepper, if desired.
6. Serve Your Salad:
If you like, arrange a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens in serving bowls. Spoon the sweet potato salad on top or serve it on the side. This salad is delicious warm or chilled, so you can choose how to enjoy it!
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Your sweet potato salad is ready to be savored! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and can also be a satisfying vegetarian main dish. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes give this salad its unique flavor, you can substitute with butternut squash or regular potatoes. Just keep in mind the cooking time might vary slightly depending on the type of potato used.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, but you can prevent this by squeezing a bit of extra lime juice over it before storing.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad in advance! Roast the sweet potatoes and mix the dressing ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and prevent it from mashing.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you need a substitute for olive oil, avocado oil or even a light vegetable oil works well. For added flavor, consider using sesame oil, especially if you’re going for an Asian-inspired twist!
