This Honey Glazed Sweet Potato Summer Salad is a colorful mix of sweet potatoes, fresh greens, and a light honey dressing. It’s perfect for sunny days and brings a burst of flavor to your plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! You can also use butternut squash or even regular potatoes if sweet potatoes aren’t available. Just know that the flavor will change a bit!
Honey: This adds just the right amount of sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works well and tastes great too!
Mixed Greens: I love using baby spinach, arugula, and romaine. If you don’t have these, any other leafy greens like kale or mustard greens can be good substitutes!
Feta Cheese: It adds a nice salty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, consider using crumbled tofu or leaving it out entirely for a lighter salad.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes until they’re golden and tender is key to this salad. Here’s how to do it successfully:
- Preheat your oven. Getting it hot enough is crucial.
- Cut them into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Give them space so they roast rather than steam.
- Flip them halfway through roasting for even caramelization.
These tips ensure you’ll end up with sweet potatoes that are deliciously caramelized!
How to Make Honey Glazed Sweet Potato Summer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed summer greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 35 minutes to prepare, including 25 minutes to roast the sweet potatoes. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing, assembling, and tossing everything together for a fresh and delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will help your sweet potatoes roast better!
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the cubed sweet potatoes. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect caramelization. When they are fork-tender and lightly browned, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Make the Dressing:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, place the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk everything together until smooth and combined. This dressing will add a zesty kick!
5. Combine the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, toasted nuts, and the roasted sweet potatoes once they’ve cooled slightly. It should look vibrant and inviting!
6. Dress and Toss:
Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together so each ingredient is coated. Be careful not to mash the sweet potatoes!
7. Add the Feta:
If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad for an added salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your salad is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes for a refreshing twist. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or even a picnic treat!
Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in this seasonal delight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Salad?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their sweetness and flavor, you can substitute them with butternut squash or even regular potatoes. Just remember that the taste will differ slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting the greens. When you’re ready to eat, mix it all together again!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, definitely! To make it vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup, and omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. The salad will still be delicious and refreshing!
How Can I Add More Protein to This Salad?
Great question! You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or black beans for a protein boost. All these options will complement the flavors of the salad and make it more filling!
