Savory sweet potato salad is a delicious and wholesome dish that brings together the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with a savory combination of flavors and textures. This salad features tender sweet potato cubes tossed with crisp red onion, crunchy celery, and protein-packed chickpeas, all dressed in a tangy Dijon mustard vinaigrette. Fresh herbs like parsley add a burst of freshness, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika gives the salad a subtle smoky depth. Perfect for a light lunch, a nutritious side dish, or a potluck favorite, this savory sweet potato salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a delightful twist on traditional potato salad, offering a healthier option that’s just as flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the sweet potato cubes on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red onion, celery, chickpeas, and fresh parsley. Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the bowl.
- Make the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad:
- Pour the vinaigrette over the sweet potato mixture. Sprinkle with smoked paprika. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Serve:
- Transfer the savory sweet potato salad to a serving dish. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Serve the salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference.
Savory sweet potato salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines roasted sweet potatoes with savory elements for a balanced and satisfying meal. Perfect for any time of year, this salad is a great way to enjoy the wholesome goodness of sweet potatoes with a savory twist.
