When you think of sweet potatoes, you probably can’t help thinking about fall.
It’s the perfect cold-weather food: a little bit savory, a little bit sweet, and warmed to perfection. But you may not know how beneficial they can be to your health.
Sweet potatoes aren’t actually potatoes. They are actually classified as a root vegetable, meaning they are closer in relation to veggies like carrots. They also provide more fiber and vitamin A. Plus, you can still eat this tasty treat if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.
So how do you incorporate sweet potatoes into your diet? It’s actually easier than you may think. Whether you prefer this tasty veggie savory or sweet, there are countless ways to prepare a sweet potato. Check out some of the most popular.
1. Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Oven roasted veggies are the perfect fall dish. They are delicious and nutritious, and they will help warm you up as the nights get colder. Adding sweet potatoes can make your roast vegetable medley heartier. By adding enough, you could even make this dish into a meal by itself. Consider adding some zucchini, onions, peppers, or your other favorite vegetables in addition to the sweet potato. Drizzle some olive oil on top, as well as your favorite herbs and spices.
2. Sweet Potato Gnocchi
This dish really takes sweet potatoes to a whole new level. To create this meal, simply bake or microwave some sweet potatoes until they are soft. (Don’t wrap them in a wet paper towel, add oil, or boil them. You will want the potatoes to be as dry as possible.)
Then mash them in a bowl and combine with flour until you get a thick dough. You can then roll the dough into tubes and cut them into small, gnocchi-sized slices. Boil for a few minutes, add a creamy sauce, and you have a delicious sweet potato dish.
3. Sweet Potato Fries
Skip out on the white potato fries and try something new. If you bake these without oil, they will get that crispy and crunchy texture you crave. Simply cut the potatoes into fry-sized pieces and then separate them on some parchment paper on an oven-safe dish. Adding spices like garlic powder, rosemary, black pepper, and just a pinch of salt will take them to the next level.
Bake on 400 for about 35 to 40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway in between. This will ensure you get the texture you want. Then, enjoy with your favorite main dish. And since it’s healthy, you don’t have to feel bad about getting seconds!
4. Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes
If you love mashed potatoes, it’s time to take them to the next level. Mashed sweet potatoes can make a delicious savory dish, especially when you add in some milk or cheese. If you’re vegan, you can swap in plant milk instead. The result will be a bowl of delicious, creamy sweet potatoes that will please even the pickiest eaters out there. For an extra touch, sprinkle some raw scallions on top of the dish. Everybody will be coming back for more.
By finding novel ways to cook unfamiliar vegetables, you can open yourself up to a whole new world of flavor.
Don’t be afraid to try new combinations and experiment with spices. That way, healthy eating doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be an exploration of some of the most delicious foods on earth. Plus, taking time to enjoy cooking new and healthy foods with your family or friends is the perfect way to grow closer this holiday season.
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