Wholesome wonders with sweet potato
What's the story
Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-packed powerhouse that can add a burst of flavor and texture to any meal. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, they bring a unique sweet and earthy taste that pairs perfectly with both savory and sweet dishes. This article uncovers five creative ways to use sweet potatoes in your kitchen, highlighting their versatility beyond the usual baked or mashed options.
Toasts
Sweet potato toasts
Replace your usual bread with slices of sweet potato for a gluten-free toast alternative. Just cut the sweet potato lengthwise into one-fourth-inch thick slices and pop them in your toaster or oven until they're soft and a little crispy. Add avocado, peanut butter, or any topping of your choice for a healthy start to your day.
Noodles
Spiralized sweet potato noodles
If you're looking for a nutritious swap for regular pasta, give sweet potato noodles a whirl! Just cook them for a minute or two in boiling water or saute them in some olive oil until they're al dente. Throw in some pesto, marinara sauce, or just drizzle them with some olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top - and you're good to go!
Smoothies
Sweet potato smoothies
Take your smoothies to the next level by adding cooked sweet potato. Its natural sweetness complements any fruit, and it packs a punch of vitamins A and C, plus fiber. Blend it with bananas, almond milk, cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey for a creamy treat. This combo tastes like dessert but fuels your body with the good stuff.
Salad
Roasted sweet potato salad
Take your salad to the next level by making roasted sweet potato cubes the star of the show. Simply sprinkle them over a bed of mixed greens and add your favorite salad fixings like nuts, dried cranberries, feta cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing. Voila, you have a hearty salad that's perfect as a captivating side dish or light main course.
Brownies
Sweet potato brownies
Add some mashed sweet potato into your brownie batter, and you've got yourself a treat that's significantly healthier than the classic version. Sweet potatoes reduce the need for extra sugar and contribute moisture, creating that crave-worthy fudgy texture. You're left with a dessert that everyone loves, and no one suspects contains a vegetable.