These herb roasted sweet potatoes are colorful and tasty! The perfect mix of sweet and savory makes them a hit at any meal. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of how the herbs make the sweet potatoes shine. They taste great as a side or even as a snack right out of the oven. What’s your favorite way to enjoy them? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish! If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you could use regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: A great choice for roasting! If you need a substitute, canola or avocado oil works well too. Just make sure it’s suitable for high heat.
Thyme: Dried thyme is easy to use, but fresh thyme adds vibrant flavor. If you have other dried herbs like oregano or basil, feel free to mix those in!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma! You can swap it for garlic powder if needed, about 1/4 teaspoon per clove works well.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skip these! They enhance the flavors, but feel free to adjust them based on your taste or health preferences. Additional spices can be added for variation!
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Roast to Perfection?
Roasting sweet potatoes can be a bit tricky, but a few tips will make sure they turn out delicious every time.
- Cut them into even 1-inch cubes for consistent cooking. This helps all pieces roast at the same rate.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated. A hot oven is key for getting that caramelized, crispy texture.
- Use a good amount of oil! This keeps the sweet potatoes from sticking and creates a lovely, crisp finish.
- Flip them halfway through cooking! This allows for even browning and prevents one side from getting too dark.
Personal Tip: For a little kick, try adding the optional chili flakes before roasting. They add a nice surprise without overpowering the sweet flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: pinch of red chili flakes for some heat
- Fresh parsley or additional fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes making these delicious herb roasted sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is important to ensure your sweet potatoes roast properly and get that nice caramelization.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything together until all the sweet potatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Next, spread the sweet potatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer to help them roast nicely. If you have parchment paper, line the baking sheet with it for easy clean-up.
4. Time to Roast:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking. This ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
5. Check for Doneness:
After 25-30 minutes, your sweet potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and lightly caramelized on the edges. If they aren’t quite ready, give them a few more minutes but keep an eye on them!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once done, take the sweet potatoes out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or additional herbs on top for added flavor and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these herb roasted sweet potatoes warm as a delightful side dish to your favorite main course or enjoy them as a delicious snack on their own. Enjoy every bite of that savory-herby goodness paired with the natural sweetness!
Can I Substitute Regular Potatoes for Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can definitely use regular potatoes instead! They will have a different flavor and texture, but the herb seasonings will still work well. Just keep an eye on the roasting time, as regular potatoes may cook slightly faster.
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor. If using fresh thyme or rosemary, use about three times the amount specified for dried (1 tablespoon fresh instead of 1 teaspoon dried).
What Should I Do with Leftover Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They’re great cold in salads or can be reheated in the oven or microwave. For reheating, try to spread them out on a baking sheet to regain some crispiness!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add other root vegetables like carrots or beets. Just cut them to similar sizes as the sweet potatoes and adjust the cooking time as needed. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
