Hot-Honeyed Sweet Potato Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and spicy: The heat from the hot honey dressing contrasts beautifully with the sweet, creamy sweet potatoes, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

• Hearty and satisfying: The roasted sweet potatoes are filling and rich, making this salad a substantial dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side.

• Simple ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, this salad is easy to make but full of flavor.

• Versatile: This salad works great for any occasion, whether as a warm side dish for dinner, a BBQ accompaniment, or even as a healthy lunch.

Ingredients

For the salad:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1-2 cups mixed greens (optional, for added freshness)

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the hot-honey dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• ½ tsp hot sauce or chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the sweet potatoes:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Roast the sweet potatoes: Place the cubed sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through for even roasting.

For the hot-honey dressing:

1. Prepare the dressing: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, hot sauce or chili flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the level of heat based on your preference.

Assembling the salad:

1. Combine the salad: Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. In a large bowl, add the roasted sweet potatoes, mixed greens (if using), and red onion (if using).

2. Add the dressing: Drizzle the hot-honey dressing over the sweet potatoes and greens. Toss gently to coat, ensuring that the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the dressing.

3. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the salad for a fresh, herby touch. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes (for roasting sweet potatoes)

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: To make this salad a full meal, add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or tofu for protein.

• Different veggies: You can add roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or beets to the salad for extra texture and flavor.

• Nuts or seeds: Toasted pecans, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds would add a great crunch to the salad.

• Cheese: For extra richness, you can add crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese to the salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover sweet potatoes and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When storing, keep the mixed greens separate to prevent them from wilting.

• Reheating: To reheat the sweet potatoes, place them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Reheat the dressing gently in the microwave or on the stovetop if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute the sweet potatoes with regular potatoes, or try using other root vegetables like butternut squash or carrots for a similar texture.

Can I make this salad in advance?

The sweet potatoes can be roasted ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble the salad with fresh greens and drizzle the dressing over it right before serving.

How spicy is the hot-honey dressing?

The level of spice in the dressing depends on how much hot sauce or chili flakes you add. Start with a small amount and taste before adding more if you prefer a spicier kick.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can swap the hot-honey dressing for other dressings like a balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or a simple lemon-olive oil dressing if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Can I make this salad without the honey?

Yes, you can make a similar dressing without the honey for a more tangy and savory flavor. Just adjust the vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavor.

Conclusion

This Hot-Honeyed Sweet Potato Salad is the perfect combination of warm, savory, and sweet. The roasted sweet potatoes, crisp greens, and spicy-sweet honey dressing create a satisfying and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side, a light lunch, or a hearty main course, this salad will bring vibrant colors and a delicious balance of flavors to your table.