Introduction:

Sweet potatoes are a beloved staple in many kitchens, prized for their natural sweetness, versatility, and nutritional value. When roasted to perfection, they become tender, caramelized, and slightly crispy on the edges—an irresistible treat. In this recipe, Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey and Feta, we take these naturally sweet and nutritious tubers and elevate them with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of crumbled feta, and optional fresh herbs for a savory-sweet flavor profile. This dish makes for an excellent side, a light vegetarian main, or even a unique appetizer.

The combination of the warm roasted sweet potatoes with the rich, tangy feta cheese and the slight sweetness from honey creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Additionally, it’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into your meals without compromising on flavor. For those following Weight Watchers or looking for a healthy, low-calorie option, this recipe is optimized for minimal SmartPoints, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Net Carbs: 23g
  • Protein: 2g
  • WW SmartPoints: 3 points (per serving)

Ingredients:

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients to create the perfect roasted sweet potato rounds:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes (washed, peeled, and sliced into rounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (use high-quality feta for a more intense flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (use raw honey for the most natural sweetness, or opt for a sugar-free substitute if desired)
  • Optional: A handful of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley (chopped for garnish)
  • Optional: A sprinkle of chili flakes or cayenne pepper (for an extra kick)

Kitchen Tools Needed:

  • Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for spreading out the sweet potato rounds evenly.
  • Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the sweet potatoes from sticking.
  • Sharp knife: For slicing the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds.
  • Measuring spoons: To accurately measure olive oil and honey.
  • Large mixing bowl: To toss the sweet potato rounds with oil and seasoning.
  • Pastry brush (optional): To evenly coat the sweet potato rounds with olive oil.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the sweet potatoes, allowing them to cook through while developing a beautiful golden-brown exterior. If you want extra crispy edges, you can increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C), but keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. Depending on your preference, you can choose to leave the skin on for additional fiber and nutrients, but for this recipe, we recommend peeling the potatoes for a smoother texture.

Once peeled, slice the sweet potatoes into even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness ensures that the rounds cook through evenly while maintaining a slight crispiness on the edges. The slices should be uniform to ensure they roast at the same rate. If you have a mandoline slicer, it will help you achieve even slices quickly and consistently.

Step 3: Toss Sweet Potatoes with Olive Oil and Seasoning

Transfer the sweet potato rounds into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the rounds, making sure each piece is well-coated. You can use a pastry brush to evenly distribute the oil if you prefer. Season the sweet potato rounds with salt and pepper to taste. The olive oil helps with crisping, and the seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes.

If you’re looking to add some extra flavor depth, consider sprinkling in a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or a small pinch of smoked paprika. These seasonings will elevate the overall flavor profile without overpowering the sweetness of the potatoes.

Step 4: Arrange Sweet Potatoes on a Baking Sheet

Once the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with oil and seasoning, arrange the rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure there is a bit of space between each round to ensure even roasting. If the rounds are too crowded, they will steam instead of roast, resulting in a less crispy texture.

Step 5: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. After the first 10-15 minutes of cooking, flip the sweet potato rounds to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Depending on your oven, the cooking time may vary slightly, so check for tenderness and golden brown edges as indicators that they are done.

The sweet potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender and have developed a crispy, caramelized exterior. If you like extra crispiness, you can roast them for an additional 5 minutes or so, but be careful not to burn them.

Step 6: Add Feta and Honey

Once the sweet potatoes are roasted to your liking, remove the baking sheet from the oven. While the sweet potato rounds are still hot, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the rounds. The heat will slightly melt the feta, allowing it to cling to the sweet potatoes.

Then, drizzle honey over the rounds. Start with 2 tablespoons of honey, but feel free to adjust according to your sweetness preference. You can use raw, organic honey for the best natural sweetness, or opt for a sugar-free honey substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake. The honey balances out the savory flavor of the feta and the earthiness of the sweet potatoes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

For an added burst of flavor and color, garnish the sweet potato rounds with chopped fresh herbs. Rosemary and thyme work wonderfully, as their earthy notes complement the sweetness of the honey and the tang of the feta. Alternatively, you can garnish with fresh parsley for a lighter touch.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper over the rounds for a spicy-sweet contrast. This addition is optional but provides a pleasant kick that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Step 8: Enjoy

Serve the roasted sweet potato rounds warm, either as a side dish, a light snack, or as a vegetarian main course. The dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, including grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

Tips for Success:

  1. Even Slices: Ensuring that all sweet potato rounds are the same thickness is crucial for even cooking. If some are thicker than others, they may remain undercooked while the thinner rounds become too crispy.
  2. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to add extra honey, or even a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
  3. Crispy Texture: For extra crispiness, try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F and reduce the cooking time by a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
  4. Alternative Toppings: While feta is a fantastic pairing with sweet potatoes, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or parmesan for a different twist.
  5. Make-Ahead Option: If you’re preparing this dish for a dinner party or special occasion, you can roast the sweet potatoes in advance, then add the honey, feta, and herbs right before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s why they’re such a great addition to any meal:

  • Rich in Vitamins: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), which is essential for eye health and immune function. They also provide a good amount of vitamin C.
  • High in Fiber: Sweet potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, supports gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
  • Antioxidants: The vibrant color of sweet potatoes indicates a high content of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.

Conclusion:

Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey and Feta is a wonderfully balanced dish that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. The sweet, savory, and slightly tangy combination of ingredients makes it a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish, a light vegetarian main, or an appetizer that will impress your guests, this recipe is an excellent choice.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare and packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect fit for various dietary needs, including Weight Watchers, gluten-free, and vegetarian diets. With only 6 WW SmartPoints per serving, it’s a healthy option that won’t derail your nutritional goals.

Enjoy these roasted sweet potato rounds as part of your next meal—whether as a simple weeknight dish or a sophisticated addition to your next gathering!