Roasted sweet potatoes with kale and onions create a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for any meal. This recipe not only showcases the natural sweetness of the potatoes but also combines the earthy flavors of kale and the aromatic qualities of onions. The result is a colorful, hearty dish that is both satisfying and healthy, making it an excellent addition to your meal.
1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Kale and Onions
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes, cut into cubes
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon pepper, divided
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature allows for optimal roasting, creating crispy edges on the sweet potatoes.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have enough space to roast evenly.
Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the cubes to ensure they cook evenly. The sweet potatoes should be tender and lightly browned when done.
Sauté the Onions and Kale: While the sweet potatoes roast, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. Stir in the chopped kale, along with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the kale wilts and softens.
Combine and Serve: Once the sweet potatoes are fully roasted, add them to the skillet with the sautéed kale and onions. Gently toss everything together to combine the flavors. Serve warm, garnishing with additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.
2. Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Varieties like Beauregard or Jewel are particularly sweet and flavorful.
Uniform Cubes: Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Aim for pieces around 1-inch in size for the best results.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with the seasonings. Adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne can enhance the flavor profile. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds brightness to the dish.
Kale Selection: Choose fresh kale with vibrant, dark green leaves. Tuscan kale (also known as Lacinato or dinosaur kale) offers a slightly different texture and flavor, making it a great alternative.
Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes as they roast. Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the size of the cubes. The goal is to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a creamy interior.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepped in advance. Roast the sweet potatoes and sauté the kale and onions separately, then combine them just before serving to keep the textures intact.
3. Serving Suggestions
Roasted sweet potatoes with kale and onions offer versatility in serving. This dish can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian meal, but it also pairs beautifully with various proteins. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
Protein Pairings: Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts, baked salmon, or roasted chickpeas for a balanced meal. The sweetness of the potatoes complements savory proteins wonderfully.
Grain Bowls: Create a grain bowl by serving the roasted mixture over quinoa, farro, or brown rice. This adds an extra layer of texture and makes the dish even more filling.
Toppings: Enhance the dish with toppings such as crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, or seeds. These add flavor and crunch, elevating the overall experience.
Salads: Pair the roasted mixture with a fresh green salad, featuring ingredients like arugula, avocado, and a light vinaigrette. This combination balances the warmth of the roasted vegetables with the freshness of raw greens.
Wraps and Tacos: Use the roasted sweet potato mixture as a filling for wraps or tacos. Add avocado, salsa, or a drizzle of tahini sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Roasted sweet potatoes with kale and onions offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can brighten any table. This dish showcases the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while providing the nutritional benefits of kale and onions. With simple preparation and diverse serving options, it makes for a versatile addition to any your meal.
