Looking for a side dish that’s a little sweet and a little savory? That’s why I love making a Sweet Savory Side Dish! It’s simple, balanced, and goes with any meal.
I toss fresh veggies or grains with a touch of honey or maple, plus herbs and spices. Every bite is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. My family always asks for seconds!
No fancy tools or tricky steps needed. Just a few easy ingredients and quick cooking. Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or any meal you want to make special.
Let’s make this side dish together! I’ll show you how simple and tasty it is. Ready for something sweet and savory?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Harmony: The sweet potatoes soften and caramelize in the oven, while the cinnamon and smoked paprika give them a warm, cozy taste. The cumin and coriander add earthiness, and the red pepper flakes give a gentle heat that wakes up your palate.
- Easy and Quick: You just toss the potatoes with oil, honey, and spices, then roast them in one pan. No complicated steps or extra sauces needed.
- Nutritious: Sweet potatoes are full of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Roasting them keeps their natural flavor and nutrients intact.
- Versatile Side: This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, pork, or even vegetarian mains like roasted vegetables or grains.
- Make Ahead: You can roast the potatoes ahead of time and serve them warm or at room temperature, making them convenient for meal prep or gatherings.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: About 15 minutes to peel, chop, and season the potatoes.
- Cook Time: Around 35 minutes in the oven, giving the potatoes a crispy outside and tender inside.
- Total Time: Around 50 minutes from start to finish.
Servings
- This recipe makes enough for 4 people as a side dish. If you need more, simply double the ingredients and use a larger roasting pan or two pans.
Difficulty
- The recipe is easy and straightforward, suitable for cooks of all levels. The most important step is cutting the sweet potatoes into similar-sized pieces for even roasting.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Baking Sheet or Roasting Pan: Use a large, rimmed sheet so the potatoes can roast in a single layer and get crispy.
- Mixing Bowl: For tossing the potatoes evenly with oil, honey, and spices.
- Measuring Spoons: To get your spice amounts just right.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into chunks or wedges.
- Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot pans.
- Spatula or Tongs: To turn the potatoes halfway through roasting.
Ingredients for Spiced Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes with firm skin and no bruises. Peeled or unpeeled works, but peeling helps the spices stick better and creates a softer texture. Cut them into roughly 1 to 1 ½-inch cubes or wedges so they cook evenly.
Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil gives a fruity, rich flavor while helping the spices coat the potatoes and crisp their edges in the oven.
Honey
Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes during roasting. It also helps balance the smoky and spicy notes from the spices.
Spices
- Ground Cinnamon: Brings warmth and a gentle sweetness that enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet depth without heat.
- Ground Cumin: Offers an earthy, nutty note that pairs well with both sweet and savory flavors.
- Ground Coriander: Gives a subtle citrusy aroma that lifts the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds gentle heat to balance the sweetness.
Salt and Pepper
Kosher salt brings out all the flavors, while freshly ground black pepper adds a mild kick.
Feta Cheese
Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty contrast to the sweet potatoes. Its tanginess brightens the dish and adds texture.
Fresh Herbs
Chopped fresh chives or parsley sprinkled on top add a burst of color and freshness.
Variations for Spiced Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle toasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds over the finished dish for crunch and extra flavor.
- Use Maple Syrup Instead of Honey: For a different sweetness and a richer taste, swap honey with pure maple syrup.
- Try Different Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or cilantro can replace or complement chives and parsley, adding unique herbal notes.
- Make It Vegan: Omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
- Add Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of fresh orange or lemon zest right before serving adds a bright, zesty touch.
- Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a bolder heat.
How to Make Spiced Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes if desired. Cut them into evenly sized 1 to 1 ½-inch cubes or wedges to ensure even cooking. Place the cut pieces into a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture until smooth and well blended. This mixture will coat the potatoes evenly, infusing them with sweet and savory flavor.
3. Toss the Potatoes
Pour the seasoning mixture over the sweet potatoes in the bowl. Use a spatula or clean hands to toss the potatoes, making sure each piece is well coated with the oil and spice blend. This step is crucial for even flavor distribution.
4. Roast the Potatoes
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet or roasting pan. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure they roast rather than steam. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C).
5. Roast Until Tender and Caramelized
Roast the potatoes for about 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through cooking (around 15-18 minutes), use a spatula or tongs to turn the potatoes, helping them brown evenly on all sides. The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender inside and golden brown with slightly crisp edges.
6. Add Feta and Fresh Herbs
Remove the roasted sweet potatoes from the oven. While still warm, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. Then, add chopped fresh chives or parsley for a bright finish. The warmth of the potatoes will soften the feta slightly, creating a creamy contrast.
How to Serve Spiced Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This side dish is very versatile and complements many meals. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Roasted or Grilled Meats: Pair the sweet and smoky potatoes with roast chicken, grilled pork chops, or steak for a balanced plate.
- Alongside Fish: Serve with baked or grilled fish like salmon or tilapia for a healthy, flavorful combo.
- Vegetarian Meals: Add to grain bowls with quinoa or farro, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.
- Holiday Tables: The warm spices and vibrant colors make this a great option for festive dinners.
- Lunch or Dinner Salads: Toss into a salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a filling side.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain crispness. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the texture.
- Make Ahead Tip: Roast the potatoes a day in advance and add the feta and fresh herbs just before serving for best freshness.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Cut Even Pieces: For even cooking, make sure your sweet potato chunks are about the same size.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the potatoes out on the baking sheet so they roast instead of steam.
- Adjust Sweetness and Heat: Taste the spice mix before tossing and adjust honey or red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices give the best flavor — avoid old or stale spices for optimal taste.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the dish soon after roasting and adding feta and herbs.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Sweet Savory Side Dish
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
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2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 to 1 ½-inch cubes
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon ground coriander
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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½ cup crumbled feta cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Add sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
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Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
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Roast for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and golden.
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Remove from oven, sprinkle with feta and fresh herbs while warm.
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Serve immediately.
Sweet Savory Side Dish FAQs
Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, but regular potatoes may need a slightly longer roasting time. They also have a different flavor profile that pairs well with these spices but will be less sweet.
Q: Can I prepare this dish vegan?
A: Absolutely. Simply omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese or toasted nuts for a similar texture and flavor contrast.
Q: How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
A: The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and have caramelized, slightly crisp edges.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, roast the potatoes a day ahead and add the feta and herbs just before serving for best freshness.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have smoked paprika?
A: Regular paprika or a small amount of chipotle powder can be a good substitute, though chipotle will add more heat.
Conclusion
This sweet savory side dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something flavorful and comforting. The combination of honey, warming spices, and the contrast of salty feta and fresh herbs makes it a well-rounded addition to any meal. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
