Roasted Sweet Potato Salad Recipe with Feta and Cranberries

Welcome to a truly vibrant and delicious roasted sweet potato salad recipe! This dish artfully blends sweet and savory flavors, creating a perfect harmony for your taste buds. Imagine tender roasted sweet potatoes, crisp red onion, tangy feta, and chewy cranberries, all brought together with a zesty honey-Dijon dressing. This versatile salad is ideal for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a festive holiday gathering. Get ready to elevate your side dish game!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Sweet Potato Salad

This roasted sweet potato salad recipe offers a delightful balance that you’ll absolutely adore.

• The unique combination of sweet cranberries and savory feta creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• You get wonderful textural contrasts from tender potatoes, slightly crisp onions, and chewy dried fruit.
• The steps are simple and straightforward, making this a perfect recipe for any home cook, especially beginners.
• It is a healthy and satisfying option, packed with nutrients and vibrant produce. To learn more about the extensive nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes, including their fiber, vitamin, and mineral content, consider this detailed overview: extensive nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes.
• This salad holds up beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

To craft this exceptional roasted sweet potato salad recipe, gather these fresh and pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the salad’s incredible flavor and texture.

• 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lb.), peeled, cubed
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into half moons
• ¼ cup + 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp. honey
• ½ tsp. ground cumin
• ¼ tsp. ground paprika
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup crumbled feta
• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley

Notes & Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. Any sweet potato variety works well; ensure uniform cubes for even roasting. If red onion is too strong, try a milder yellow onion or soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce its bite. Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor in your dressing. White wine vinegar or lemon juice can replace apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup works in place of honey. Experiment with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots, or swap feta for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Fresh dill or cilantro also make excellent additions.

Equipment

You won’t need specialized gadgets for this simple roasted sweet potato salad recipe. Gather these basic kitchen tools to make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.

• Large baking sheet
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or liquid measuring cup
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to create your flavorful roasted sweet potato salad recipe.

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Sheet: Arrange an oven rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prevents sticking and ensures even roasting.
2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes. Uniformity helps them cook evenly. Thinly slice the red onion into half moons.
3. Toss with Oil & Season: In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes and sliced red onion. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated.
4. Roast Vegetables: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes and onion in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; use two sheets if necessary. Roast for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and lightly caramelized.
5. Cool Roasted Veggies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the roasted sweet potatoes and onions cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, transfer the slightly cooled vegetables to a large mixing bowl.
6. Whisk Dressing Ingredients: While the vegetables cool, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or a medium liquid measuring cup, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, ground cumin, and ground paprika.
7. Emulsify Dressing: Gradually pour in the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil in a slow, steady stream. Whisk constantly as you add the oil. This process emulsifies the dressing, creating a smooth, creamy texture. Understanding the science behind how oil and vinegar combine to create a stable dressing can elevate your culinary skills: science of emulsification.
8. Season Dressing: Taste the dressing and season it with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the flavors to your liking.
9. Combine Salad Elements: Add the prepared dressing to the large bowl containing the roasted sweet potatoes and onions. Sprinkle in the dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and freshly chopped parsley.
10. Toss to Combine: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the sweet potatoes, onions, cranberries, feta, and parsley are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the tender sweet potatoes.
11. Serve: Your delicious roasted sweet potato salad recipe is ready! Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. It’s fantastic fresh, and its flavors develop beautifully over time.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Mastering this sweet potato salad is simple with a few key pointers. To achieve perfect roasted sweet potatoes, ensure they are cut into uniform pieces and spread in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding steams them instead of roasting. For an ideal dressing, gradually whisk in the oil until fully emulsified, creating a smooth, cohesive texture. Avoid overcooking the potatoes, which can lead to a mushy salad; roast until just tender. Taste and adjust your dressing often to balance sweet, savory, and tangy notes. For best results, allow the flavors to meld for at least an hour before serving, especially if making ahead.

Serving, Storage, and Variations

This versatile sweet potato salad offers many possibilities.

• Serving Suggestions: This salad makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, roasted pork, or baked salmon. Serve it alongside your holiday turkey or ham, or enjoy it as a light vegetarian main course.
• Storage Instructions: Store any leftover sweet potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to deepen.
• Make Ahead: You can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the dressing up to two days in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
• Variations:
  • Add Nuts: For extra crunch, toss in toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
  • Herbs: Experiment with fresh rosemary or thyme alongside or instead of parsley.
  • Extra Veggies: Stir in roasted bell peppers, baby spinach, or arugula for added color and nutrients.
  • Protein Boost: Make it a meal by adding roasted chicken, grilled shrimp, or chickpeas.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta cheese and add toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar textural crunch.

Nutrition Information

This vibrant sweet potato salad provides a nutritious boost to any meal. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, supporting immune health and digestion. The olive oil contributes healthy fats, while cranberries offer antioxidants. This recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying and healthy choice.

Estimated values based on 6 servings. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

FAQ

You’ve got questions, we have answers about this delicious roasted sweet potato salad recipe!

• Can I make this sweet potato salad ahead of time? Absolutely! You can roast the potatoes and prepare the dressing up to two days in advance, storing them separately. Combine them just before serving.
• Can I use other types of sweet potatoes? Yes, any variety of sweet potato works well in this recipe. Just ensure you cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? This roasted sweet potato salad recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden gluten if you have sensitivities.
• Can I serve this salad cold? Yes, it’s delicious both warm and cold. The flavors deepen as it chills, making it a great option for meal prep or picnics.
• What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese offers a similar tangy flavor, or you can use dairy-free crumbled cheese for an alternative. Toasted nuts or seeds also add a nice texture.
• How long does roasted sweet potato salad recipe last in the fridge? When stored in an airtight container, this salad will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This roasted sweet potato salad recipe with feta and cranberries offers a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It is simple to prepare yet elegant enough for any table, bringing vibrant colors and incredible taste to your meal. We encourage you to try this fantastic recipe and discover its versatility and deliciousness for yourself. Feel free to personalize it with your favorite additions and make it your own signature dish! Enjoy every satisfying bite!

Roasted Sweet Potato Salad recipe with Feta and Cranberries

This vibrant roasted sweet potato salad recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes, red onion, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley in a zesty honey-Dijon dressing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory — great for holidays or any time!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into half moons
• 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for roasting)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 0.5 tsp ground cumin
• 0.25 tsp ground paprika
• 0.5 cup dried cranberries
• 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

• Large baking sheet For roasting vegetables
• Large mixing bowl To combine salad ingredients
• Small bowl or measuring cup For preparing the dressing
• Whisk For emulsifying dressing
• Measuring Cups and Spoons To measure ingredients
• cutting board and sharp knife For chopping vegetables and herbs

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel and cube sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. In a bowl, toss sweet potatoes and onion with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread vegetables on baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Let vegetables cool for 10 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon, honey, cumin, and paprika.
7. Slowly whisk in remaining ¼ cup olive oil to emulsify the dressing. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add cranberries, feta, parsley, and dressing to the bowl with roasted vegetables.
9. Gently toss everything together until well coated. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Notes

Substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. For a touch of crunch, add toasted pecans or pumpkin seeds. Maple syrup can replace honey, and apple cider vinegar can be swapped with lemon juice or white wine vinegar. This salad can be served warm or cold and holds well for meal prep.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com