This Sweet Potato Salad with Avocado is a colorful treat! It combines sweet potatoes and creamy avocado for a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s healthy and filling!
Making this salad is so easy! I often whip it up for lunch or a side dish at dinner. Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking bites straight from the bowl. Who can blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. I love their natural sweetness and creamy texture when roasted. If you’re looking for a change, butternut squash or carrots can work well as substitutes for a different flavor.
Avocado: Ripe avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you’re allergic to avocados or just don’t have any, consider using tahini or a small amount of plain Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
Red Onion: It adds a nice crunch and a little zing. If red onions are too strong for your taste, try green onions or shallots instead to keep it mild.
Greens: I typically use arugula or spinach for their peppery taste and nutrients. However, kale or mixed greens can also be great options if you prefer a different texture.
Lime Juice: This brightens the dish up. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice does the trick too, adding a similar tang.
How Can I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes right makes them caramelized and sweet. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for a perfect roasting temperature.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even cubes—this helps them cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this allows for better caramelization.
- Toss them with oil and seasoning before roasting, and remember to turn them halfway through for even cooking!
Enjoy your cooking! This salad is not just delicious; it’s also versatile, and you can adjust it based on your tastes and what you have on hand. Happy salad making!
Sweet Potato Salad With Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh greens (such as arugula or spinach), chopped
Dressing and Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Herbs:
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sweet Potato Salad takes about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and while the sweet potatoes are roasting for 20-25 minutes, you can gather everything else. Quick and nutritious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the perfect temperature to roast the sweet potatoes and get them caramelized. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and the optional smoked paprika. Make sure they’re nicely coated!
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the sweet potatoes out on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly. Pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and slightly golden on the edges.
3. Prepare the Other Ingredients:
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, it’s the perfect time to chop the other ingredients! Dice your avocado, finely chop the red onion, and wash and chop the fresh greens. This makes assembly super quick when the sweet potatoes are ready.
4. Combine Everything:
Once the sweet potatoes are out of the oven and have cooled for a few minutes, grab a large bowl. Combine the roasted sweet potatoes, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and greens. It’s all about merging those tasty textures!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the lime juice over the salad. Gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly without squishing the avocado too much.
6. Final Seasoning and Garnish:
Now it’s time to adjust the seasoning. Add more salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top to add a burst of flavor and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
The salad is delicious warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your nourishing Sweet Potato Salad with Avocado as a meal or as a side dish. It’s a delightful combination you’ll want to make again!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are key for their flavor and texture, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash if you prefer. Just adjust the roasting time as needed, since they may cook differently.
How Can I Ensure My Avocado Stays Fresh?
To keep your avocado from browning, you can add lime juice right after dicing it. Also, try to serve the salad shortly after preparing to enjoy that creamy texture at its best!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly! All the ingredients are plant-based. Feel free to enjoy it as a wholesome plant-based meal or side dish.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown a bit, but it will still taste delicious!
