Spiced Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

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This spiced sweet potato salad is a flavorful and texturally rich dish, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It combines spiced and roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas with tangy pickled red onions, fresh cucumber, herbs, crumbled feta, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The contrasting flavors and textures make this salad uniquely delicious and satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pickled Red Onions:

  • 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
  • 1 cup red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ tsp kosher salt

For the Spiced Sweet Potatoes:

  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 ½ lbs sweet potatoes (about 2 large), cut into ¼” thick fries
  • 1 (15.5 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and dried
  • ¼ cup olive oil

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup neutral oil (safflower, grapeseed, etc.)
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Salad:

  • 1 (5 oz) container mixed greens
  • 1 small cucumber, very thinly sliced
  • ½ cup fresh parsley leaves, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh dill leaves, roughly chopped
  • 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled

Directions

  1. Prepare the Pickled Red Onions:
    • Place the red onions in a shallow bowl.
    • In a small saucepan, bring the red wine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to a simmer.
    • Turn off the heat and pour the liquid over the onions.
    • Cover with plastic wrap to keep the onions submerged and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas:
    • Preheat the oven to 425°F.
    • In a large bowl, mix sesame seeds, smoked paprika, garlic powder, fennel seeds, and salt.
    • Add the sweet potatoes and chickpeas, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat.
    • Spread the sweet potatoes on one sheet pan in an even layer and the chickpeas on another.
    • Roast for 30-35 minutes until golden and crispy. Let cool slightly.
  3. Make the Lemon Vinaigrette:
    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, and honey.
    • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil and neutral oil while whisking continuously.
    • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble the Salad:
    • In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, parsley, dill, feta, pickled red onions, and chickpeas.
    • Drizzle in most of the vinaigrette and toss well.
    • Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, top with roasted sweet potatoes, and drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette.
    • Garnish with extra feta, onions, and chickpeas.

Nutrients

(Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: ~350-450 kcal
  • Protein: ~10g
  • Carbohydrates: ~50g
  • Fats: ~20g
  • Fiber: ~8g
  • Sugar: ~12g

This hearty and vibrant salad is great for meal prep and can be customized with added protein like grilled chicken or steak. Enjoy! 😊

Why This Salad Stands Out

Unlike traditional salads that rely on leafy greens as the main component, this Spiced Sweet Potato Salad shines due to its robust ingredients that offer variety in taste and texture. The roasted sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness with a caramelized, crispy exterior, while the spiced chickpeas contribute a crunchy and savory element. The pickled red onions add a delightful tang, cutting through the richness of the feta cheese and the dressing. Fresh cucumber and mixed greens introduce a refreshing crispness, while the combination of parsley and dill enhances the dish with bright, aromatic notes. Every bite is a mix of bold, contrasting flavors that come together harmoniously.

The Magic of Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas

One of the key features of this salad is the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas. Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making them a nutrient-dense addition to the dish. Roasting them with a combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, fennel seeds, and toasted sesame seeds elevates their flavor profile, enhancing their sweetness with a touch of smokiness and spice.

Chickpeas, on the other hand, bring a dose of plant-based protein and fiber, making this salad more filling and satisfying. When roasted, they develop a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softer elements of the dish. The addition of warm spices ensures that both the chickpeas and sweet potatoes are bursting with deep, earthy flavors, giving the salad a rich and complex taste.

The Bold Tang of Pickled Red Onions

A standout component of this salad is the pickled red onions, which add a bright, acidic contrast to the earthy sweetness of the roasted ingredients. Pickling red onions is a simple yet effective way to enhance their natural flavor while softening their sharp bite. Soaking them in a mixture of red wine vinegar, sugar, water, and salt transforms them into a tangy and slightly sweet ingredient that complements the richness of the feta cheese and vinaigrette.

These onions are a fantastic addition to many dishes, as they provide a pop of acidity and vibrant color. They not only balance the flavors in this salad but also contribute to its visual appeal, making the dish look as enticing as it tastes.

Fresh and Fragrant Herbs for an Extra Layer of Flavor

Herbs play a crucial role in this salad, adding freshness and depth to every bite. Parsley and dill are the primary herbs used, each bringing its unique characteristics to the dish.

  • Parsley has a mild, slightly peppery flavor that enhances the other ingredients without overpowering them.
  • Dill offers a slightly sweet, grassy, and aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the tangy vinaigrette and creamy feta.

The combination of these two herbs ensures that the salad remains light and refreshing while adding an extra layer of complexity to the overall flavor profile.

The Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette: The Perfect Dressing

No salad is complete without a delicious dressing, and the lemon vinaigrette used in this recipe is a game-changer. It is a simple yet flavorful blend of lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, honey, and a mix of olive oil and neutral oil. The vinaigrette is bright and citrusy, with a touch of sweetness from the honey that balances the tangy and savory elements of the salad.

One of the key aspects of making a great vinaigrette is emulsification—slowly whisking in the oils while mixing ensures a smooth, well-balanced dressing. The use of both olive oil and neutral oil helps prevent the vinaigrette from becoming too heavy while maintaining a rich, well-rounded taste. A light drizzle of this dressing over the salad ties everything together, enhancing the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients.

The Role of Feta Cheese in This Salad

Feta cheese is an essential ingredient in this salad, providing a creamy, tangy contrast to the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas. Its briny flavor complements the acidity of the pickled onions and the brightness of the vinaigrette, while its crumbly texture adds an element of richness to each bite.

For those looking to experiment with different cheese options, goat cheese or ricotta salata can be excellent alternatives, offering slightly different textures and flavors. However, feta remains a classic choice that pairs beautifully with the other components of this dish.

Versatility and Customization Options

One of the best things about this Spiced Sweet Potato Salad is its versatility. It can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences and nutritional needs. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe:

  • Add Protein: If you want to make this salad even more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, or even a poached egg for an extra protein boost.
  • Make It Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to make this salad completely vegan.
  • Switch Up the Greens: While mixed greens provide a light and refreshing base, you can use arugula for a peppery bite, kale for a heartier texture, or spinach for a milder flavor.
  • Try Different Nuts or Seeds: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can add another layer of crunch and nuttiness to the salad.
  • Experiment with Dressings: While the lemon vinaigrette is a perfect match for this salad, a tahini dressing or balsamic glaze could also work well, depending on your flavor preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

There are countless reasons why this Spiced Sweet Potato Salad is a must-try dish. Here are just a few:

  • Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted spices, tangy pickled onions, fresh herbs, and creamy feta makes every bite exciting.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
  • Great for All Seasons: Whether you’re enjoying it as a summer salad or a comforting winter dish, it’s a versatile recipe that works year-round.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Salad for Every Occasion

Spiced Sweet Potato Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavorful, well-rounded meal that satisfies both the palate and the body. The combination of crispy roasted sweet potatoes, crunchy chickpeas, tangy pickled onions, fresh greens, and a bright lemon vinaigrette makes this salad an explosion of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own or paired with proteins for a heartier option.

 

 

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