Sweet Potatoes with Pecans: A Fall Favorite That’s Easy to Love

Unleash the flavors of fall with this irresistible sweet potatoes with pecans recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the crunchy goodness of pecans for a side that steals the show.

Why This Recipe Works

  • The combination of sweet potatoes and pecans offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
  • Roasting the sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness, making them irresistibly delicious.
  • This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various tweaks and additions to suit any palate.
  • It’s a healthy option packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Recipe Sweet Potatoes With Pecans

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, peel and cube the sweet potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect tender texture.

Season to Perfection

In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, let the seasoned sweet potatoes sit for 10 minutes before roasting.

Roast Until Golden

Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re golden and fork-tender. The edges should be slightly caramelized for that perfect bite.

Add the Pecans

In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the sweet potatoes. This ensures the pecans are perfectly toasted without burning. Tip: Watch closely as nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a flash.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the sweet potatoes and pecans to a serving dish. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy as a hearty main. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips and Tricks

For those looking to elevate this dish, consider toasting the pecans separately before adding them to the sweet potatoes for an even deeper flavor. If you’re short on time, microwaving the sweet potatoes for a few minutes before roasting can speed up the cooking process. Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Lastly, for a festive touch, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme before serving.

Recipe Variations

  • Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
  • Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a tangy twist.
  • Incorporate diced apples or pears into the mix for added sweetness and texture.
  • For a savory version, omit the maple syrup and add garlic powder and smoked paprika.
  • Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven and add the pecans just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Are there any nut-free alternatives? Absolutely! Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can be a great substitute for pecans, offering a similar crunch without the nuts.

How can I make this dish vegan? This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use pure maple syrup. Just double-check your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Summary

This sweet potatoes with pecans recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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