These Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a delicious blend of sweet, nutty, and savory flavors—perfect for a cozy fall side dish! Roasted until tender with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, then tossed with crunchy walnuts and sweetened with a drizzle of maple syrup, this dish is simple yet full of flavor. Dried cranberries and fresh thyme make an optional garnish that adds a pop of color and texture.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup walnut halves
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 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.
Step 2: Season the Sweet Potatoes
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the ingredients until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Walnuts and Finish Roasting
- After 20 minutes, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the walnut halves over the top. Stir to combine.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and golden, and the walnuts are lightly toasted.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
- If desired, sprinkle with dried cranberries and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Serve warm, and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These roasted sweet potatoes are a great side dish for roasted chicken, pork, or any fall-themed main dish. They’re also tasty on their own as a snack or light meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Sweet Potatoes: For the best results, cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Walnuts: Add the walnuts halfway through roasting to prevent them from burning and to keep them crunchy.
- Maple Syrup: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten suggests roasting vegetables at a high temperature to bring out their natural sweetness and achieve a caramelized exterior.
- Yotam Ottolenghi recommends using fresh thyme sprigs with roasted dishes to enhance their earthy flavors.
- Nigella Lawson often adds a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness in dishes with maple syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds are great alternatives that also provide a nice crunch.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and roast them ahead of time. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through before serving.
Q3: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely, honey works as a good substitute for maple syrup, though it has a slightly different flavor profile.
Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mixture for a bit of heat.
Q5: Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just be sure to wash and scrub the sweet potatoes well if you choose to keep the skin.
Q6: Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or butternut squash would pair well with the sweet potatoes.
Q7: How do I keep the sweet potatoes from becoming mushy?
Roasting at a high temperature and spreading the sweet potatoes in a single layer helps them caramelize and prevents mushiness.
Q8: Can I omit the dried cranberries?
Yes, they’re optional but add a nice burst of sweetness and texture. Raisins or dried cherries are also great alternatives.
Q9: How can I make this recipe oil-free?
You can omit the olive oil and use a non-stick baking mat. The maple syrup will still help with browning.
Q10: How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes dish is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy side dish, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Enjoy!