🥔 Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Honey, Feta & Toasted Pecans
Description
This dish perfectly balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The natural caramelization of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with golden honey, crumbly feta cheese, and toasted pecans for a satisfying and elegant side dish. A touch of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant, herby note that elevates the flavor to gourmet levels — perfect for holidays, family dinners, or as a healthy side for any meal.
🍴 Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp honey (plus a drizzle for serving, optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish
🔥 Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare Sweet Potatoes:
In a mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Make sure each piece is evenly coated. - Roast:
Spread the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are tender and caramelized. - Toast Pecans:
While the sweet potatoes roast, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly browned. Set aside. - Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes to a serving platter. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and toasted pecans. - Garnish & Serve:
Drizzle lightly with extra honey (optional) and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary. Serve warm.
🍽️ Servings
Serves: 3–4 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
🧮 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Potassium | 430 mg |
| Vitamin A | 220% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 5% DV |
(Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands.)
🌿 Health Benefits
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A), fiber, and antioxidants that support eye health and immunity.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
- Honey: A natural sweetener with trace antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.
- Feta Cheese: Adds protein and calcium; its tanginess balances the sweetness.
- Pecans: Provide healthy fats, magnesium, and plant-based protein.
- Herbs (Thyme/Rosemary): Offer anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
💡 Chef’s Tips & Notes
- Uniform Slices: Slice sweet potatoes evenly to ensure even roasting.
- Crispier Texture: Roast on a metal sheet (not glass) and avoid overcrowding.
- Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a sweet-spicy contrast.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace feta with vegan cheese or omit it entirely.
- Meal Prep Tip: Roast in advance; reheat in the oven for 10 minutes before serving.
- Presentation: Stack the slices slightly overlapping for a pretty layered look on a platter.
❓ Q & A
Q1: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
👉 Yes! Maple syrup gives a deeper, earthy sweetness and works beautifully.
Q2: Can this be served cold?
👉 Yes, it’s delicious at room temperature or slightly chilled — great for picnics or salads.
Q3: What can I pair this with?
👉 Works well with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a quinoa salad.
Q4: Can I make it ahead?
👉 Absolutely! Roast the sweet potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and assemble with feta and pecans before serving.
Q5: Can I air fry it?
👉 Yes — cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.