Looking for a vibrant, nutritious dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied? Look no further than this Roasted Sweet Potato Lentil Salad! Bursting with flavors and textures, this salad combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the hearty goodness of lentils, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it's not just a meal—it's a celebration of wholesome ingredients! Ready to impress your family and friends? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to whip up a deliciously healthy dish in no time!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the sweet potatoes roast evenly and develop a nice caramelization.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes by peeling them (if desired) and cutting them into 1-inch cubes. This size will help them cook evenly and quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. This will enhance their flavor during roasting.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper roasting.
- Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned. Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the lentils if they are not already cooked. You can use canned lentils (drained and rinsed) or cook dried lentils according to package instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, diced red onion, and diced bell pepper. These ingredients will add freshness and crunch to the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a dressing. This will add a lovely sweet and tangy flavor to the salad.
- Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, let them cool for a few minutes before adding them to the lentil mixture. This prevents the salad from becoming mushy.
- Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the sweet potatoes.
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve the roasted sweet potato lentil salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this nutritious and delicious dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking. Look for firm ones with smooth skin for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the sweet potatoes before roasting. A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a delightful kick!
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, you can prep the sweet potatoes and lentils in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the salad.
- Add Crunch: For added texture, consider incorporating nuts or seeds, such as toasted pecans or sunflower seeds, to the salad just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
