Roasted Sweet Potato Honey Feta

Roasted sweet potato rounds with honey and feta are my go to when I want a comforting and colorful side that looks impressive but takes almost no time to make This recipe highlights that sweet and savory can be both simple and a little fancy with very little fuss making it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners alike

When I made these sweet potato rounds for a Thursday night get together my friends asked for the recipe before their plates were even clean Now I make it as a holiday appetizer and as a last minute side for family dinners

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes: Large tubers with smooth skin and deep orange flesh give the best texture and rich color Look for ones free of bruises or soft spots
• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for its depth and fruity notes Quality oil enhances the caramelization
• Salt: Real sea salt draws out the flavor of the sweet potatoes and balances the honey
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked adds a bit of sharpness that contrasts the creamy feta
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky complexity Choose a Spanish smoked paprika if possible or skip if you want pure sweetness
• Feta cheese: Choose creamy crumbly feta for best taste Look for sheep milk feta for tang or use goat cheese for a mellower bite
• Honey: A gentle drizzle ties everything together Use local honey for nuanced flavor or maple syrup for a cozy variation
• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley brightens every bite and brings freshness Try flat leaf if available for best texture

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 425 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking

Slice Sweet Potatoes:

Wash and peel your sweet potatoes then carefully slice them into even half inch rounds Use a mandoline for uniform thickness if you have one This ensures every piece cooks evenly

Coat the Rounds:

Place sweet potato rounds in a mixing bowl Add olive oil salt black pepper and smoked paprika Toss thoroughly so every slice is glistening and seasoned on all sides

Arrange and Roast:

Spread the discs in a single layer on your baking sheet Avoid overlapping That way each slice will roast and caramelize rather than steam

Flip and Finish:

Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes flipping each round halfway through by gently turning with tongs Once golden brown and edges crisp remove the tray from the oven

Cool Slightly:

Wait about five minutes before handling so they set and hold their shape The rounds will stay tender inside but edges become perfectly crisp

Decorate with Toppings:

Carefully arrange the warm sweet potato rounds on a serving platter Sprinkle with crumbled feta which will soften slightly on the warm potatoes

Drizzle and Garnish:

Finish by drizzling honey over the cheesy tops and scattering them with freshly chopped parsley Serve right away for best flavor and texture

One of my favorite details is the way feta melts just a bit from the warmth of the roasted sweet potatoes That creamy bite has become my signature for family gatherings and it always reminds me of my grandmother’s love of a good cheese plate

Storage Tips

Store any remaining rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results lay parchment between layers so they do not stick To reheat spread the rounds on a baking sheet and warm in a 375 degree oven until hot and crisp again This preserves the texture better than microwaving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have feta goat cheese works beautifully for its tangy creaminess Maple syrup can stand in for honey especially if you prefer a milder sweetness For a dairy free version try a cashew based cheese crumble and use agave syrup as your drizzle

Serving Suggestions

These sweet potato rounds make a stunning addition to a mezze platter along with olives and warm pita They are also great with roasted chicken sliced steak or as a starter on their own Add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch if you want even more flavor layers

Cultural and Seasonal Context

This dish finds its roots in Mediterranean kitchens where savory cheese pairs with sweet and earthy vegetables Sweet potatoes are a heartier update on classic roasted squash used in many fall feasts They are especially perfect from late summer through winter when roots are at their peak and fresh parsley adds a note of springtime

Seasonal Adaptations

Top with pomegranate seeds for a festive holiday spin Add chili flakes for a bit of gentle heat if you love spice Try lemon zest in the parsley for a fresh spring lift

Success Stories

I once served these as a holiday appetizer and they disappeared even before the main course arrived My sister in law now sends me pictures every time she makes them for her family It is a recipe that brings smiles and never fails to impress guests with its pretty jewel tones

Freezer Meal Conversion

If you want to make these ahead for a party roast the sweet potato rounds and allow them to cool completely Stack with parchment paper in a container and freeze up to two weeks Reheat directly from frozen in the oven then finish with toppings just before serving

Serve warm or at room temperature for effortless entertaining These effortless sweet potato rounds bring a special touch to any meal

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute feta with another cheese?

Yes, goat cheese is an excellent substitute for feta. Its tangy flavor pairs well with sweet potatoes and honey.

→ Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for smooth rounds, but you may keep the skin on if you prefer added texture and nutrients.

→ What's the best way to achieve crispy rounds?

Slice the sweet potatoes evenly, coat well with olive oil, and arrange the slices in a single layer without overlapping. Flip halfway through roasting for even browning.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Place cooled rounds in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

→ Can maple syrup replace honey?

Yes, maple syrup provides a lovely sweetness and complements both feta and sweet potatoes nicely.

→ What herbs can be used instead of parsley?

Fresh cilantro or mint can be used for a different flavor profile while still adding freshness and color.