Cilantro-Lime Spiced Sweet Potato Medley
Elevate your meal with this zesty and flavorful Cilantro-Lime Spiced Sweet Potato Medley. This dish features perfectly roasted sweet potatoes, infused with a punch of cayenne heat and a burst of fresh lime. The vibrant cilantro adds a refreshing finish, making it an excellent side dish for any occasion. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy it as a side or a standalone dish packed with nutrition and taste.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
sweet potatoes
2 lbs (peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces)
extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons (divided)
salt
3/4 teaspoon (divided)
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
fresh lime zest
1/2 teaspoon (finely grated)
fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the lower third.
2
In a large shallow baking pan, toss the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Spread the potatoes in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
3
Roast the sweet potatoes for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
4
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine cayenne pepper, lime zest, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a small bowl to create a spice mix.
5
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
6
Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and immediately transfer them to the bowl with lime juice and oil, tossing to coat evenly.
7
Sprinkle the prepared cayenne spice mix over the potatoes along with the chopped cilantro, stirring gently to combine all the flavors.
8
Serve warm and enjoy the medley of spicy and tangy flavors in every bite.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cilantro-Lime Spiced Sweet Potato Medley?
It is a zesty side dish featuring roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with cayenne pepper, lime juice, lime zest, and fresh cilantro.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long do the sweet potatoes need to roast?
The sweet potatoes typically roast for about 25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses olive oil and plant-based ingredients.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this sweet potato medley are naturally gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
How should I cut the sweet potatoes?
The sweet potatoes should be peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces for even cooking.
What ingredients are in the spice mix?
The spice mix consists of cayenne pepper, lime zest, and salt.
When do I add the lime juice?
The lime juice is whisked with olive oil and tossed with the potatoes immediately after they are removed from the oven.
Where should I place the oven rack?
The rack should be positioned in the lower third of the oven.
Do I need to stir the potatoes while roasting?
Yes, you should stir the sweet potatoes halfway through the 25-minute roasting time.
What kind of oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for both roasting and the final dressing.
How much cayenne pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon, but you can adjust this to your personal taste.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor and because you also need the fresh zest.
What is the role of cilantro in this dish?
Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing finish and vibrant color to the roasted medley.
How much salt is required in total?
A total of 3/4 teaspoon of salt is used, divided between the roasting process and the spice mix.
Why roast the potatoes in a single layer?
Spreading them in a single layer ensures they roast evenly and caramelize rather than steaming.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served warm, you can roast the potatoes ahead and toss them with the dressing and spices just before serving.
Is this a healthy side dish?
Yes, it is packed with nutrition from sweet potatoes and uses healthy fats like olive oil.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for its bright flavor; dried cilantro will not provide the same result.
How much sweet potato do I need?
The recipe requires 2 pounds of sweet potatoes.
What should I serve this with?
It pairs well with grilled proteins, black bean dishes, or as a standalone nutritious bowl.
How do I make the spice mix?
Combine 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon lime zest, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
How do I make the lime dressing?
Whisk together 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
What if I don't like spice?
You can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and still enjoy the citrusy lime and cilantro flavor.
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, true yams or different varieties of sweet potatoes can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The sweet potatoes should be tender on the inside with slightly crisp, caramelized edges.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Should the potatoes be peeled?
The recipe suggests peeling the potatoes for a more uniform texture.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just ensure you use a large enough baking pan or two pans to keep the potatoes in a single layer.