These herb roasted sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal! They’re soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and full of flavor from fresh herbs.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good sweet potato? I like to sprinkle some extra herbs on top before serving—makes it feel fancy without the fuss! Perfect for impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star here! They bring a natural sweetness and beautiful texture. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could use butternut squash or regular potatoes, but they’ll offer a different taste and texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with roasting and adds flavor. Feel free to substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you’re looking for something different or if you’re avoiding olive oil. Both work great!
Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano are classic herb choices that enhance the dish. If you have fresh herbs, absolutely use those! You can also experiment with herbs like sage or tarragon to switch things up.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds depth to the flavor. You can replace it with fresh minced garlic (1 clove equals about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder) for a more intense flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional but gives a nice smokiness. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or add a little cumin for a different twist!
How Can You Make Sure the Sweet Potatoes Roast Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes to perfection is all about the right prep and technique. Here are some important steps:
- **Cutting the Sweet Potatoes:** Make sure you cut them into even 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook uniformly and get crispy on the outside while being tender inside.
- **Crowding the Pan:** Spread your sweet potatoes out on the baking sheet in a single layer. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of roast, resulting in a mushy texture.
- **Tossing with Oil and Seasonings:** Make sure all the pieces are coated evenly with oil and spices. This step is key for achieving that delicious, crispy exterior.
- **Flipping Halfway Through:** Turn your sweet potatoes halfway through the roasting time. This helps them brown nicely on all sides and prevents sticking.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have herb roasted sweet potatoes that are perfectly crispy and full of flavor every time!
How to Make Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme leaves (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 40 minutes. It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll have a tasty side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the sweet potatoes get a nice crispy exterior. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried thyme, crushed rosemary, dried oregano, smoked paprika (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a nice toss with your hands or a spatula until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t crowded; this helps with even roasting and getting those edges crispy!
4. Roast in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to check and turn them once halfway through cooking to help them brown evenly. They are done when they are tender inside and slightly crispy on the edges.
5. Garnish and Serve:
When they’re perfectly roasted, take them out of the oven and transfer the sweet potatoes to a serving dish. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, along with fresh rosemary or thyme leaves, and optional sesame seeds over the top for a lovely garnish.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your warm herb roasted sweet potatoes right away as a delicious side dish. They’re flavorful, colorful, and sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your beautifully roasted herb-seasoned sweet potatoes that are colorful, aromatic, and full of flavor!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash, regular potatoes, or even carrots! Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as they roast.
How Do I Store Leftover Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses olive oil and no animal products. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add your favorite herbs!
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
You can definitely experiment with other spices! Consider trying cumin, chili powder, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet touch. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also be lovely additions!