Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Feta & Pecans

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Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Feta & Pecans

Description

Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Feta and Pecans is a warm, comforting side dish that balances sweet, salty, and nutty flavors. Tender roasted sweet potatoes are coated in honey and olive oil, lightly spiced with cinnamon, then finished with crumbly feta cheese and toasted pecans for contrast. It works beautifully as a holiday side, weeknight dinner addition, or even a hearty vegetarian lunch.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, adds warmth)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • â…“ cup pecans, roughly chopped

Optional garnish: fresh parsley or thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Season potatoes: In a large bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and honey until evenly coated.
  3. Roast: Spread potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and fork-tender.
  4. Toast pecans (optional but recommended): In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Assemble: Transfer roasted potatoes to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and crumbled feta.
  6. Serve warm and garnish if desired.

Notes

  • Cinnamon is optional but enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
  • Feta adds a salty contrast—go light or heavy depending on preference.
  • This dish is best served warm but still tasty at room temperature.

Tips for Best Results

  • Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform roasting.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—crowding causes steaming instead of roasting.
  • For extra crispiness, roast for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Use raw, unroasted pecans for better flavor control.

Servings

  • Serves: 4
  • Serving size: About 1 cup per person

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sugar: 16 g
  • Sodium: 360 mg

(Values may vary based on brands and exact quantities.)

Health Benefits

  • Sweet potatoes: Rich in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants
  • Honey: Natural energy source and antioxidant properties
  • Pecans: Heart-healthy fats and minerals
  • Feta: Provides calcium and protein with less fat than many cheeses

This dish supports digestive health, energy levels, and heart health when enjoyed in moderation.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes! Replace honey with maple syrup and feta with a dairy-free cheese or omit it.

Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A: You can, but the flavor balance will be less sweet—reduce honey slightly.

Q: Can this be made ahead of time?
A: Roast the potatoes ahead and add feta and pecans just before serving.

Q: What main dishes pair well with this?
A: Grilled chicken, roasted turkey, salmon, or a grain-based salad.

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