Roasted Sweet Potatoes Rounds with Ricotta and Walnuts

Name: Roasted Sweet Potatoes Rounds with Ricotta and Walnuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Savor the delightful combination of roasted sweet potato rounds topped with creamy ricotta and crunchy walnuts. This colorful dish is perfect for a nutritious appetizer or a side that steals the show. The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the rich creaminess of the ricotta, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it's a great way to elevate your culinary creations.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-13T19:28:51.242Z

Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients that benefit your health. Rich in beta carotene, they are a great source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and boosting the immune system. Additionally, they contain a good amount of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Incorporating sweet potatoes into your diet can contribute to overall well-being while satisfying your taste buds.

Aside from their nutritional prowess, sweet potatoes are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight. The natural sweetness can satisfy your cravings for sugary foods without the guilt. By replacing traditional starchy sides with sweet potatoes, you can enjoy a delicious meal while enhancing your dietary variety and nutrient intake.

The Perfect Pairing of Ricotta and Walnuts

Ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavor to this dish, creating a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes. This soft cheese is lower in fat compared to other cheeses, making it a lighter choice for any dish. Not only does it elevate your culinary experience, but it also offers a good source of protein and calcium, contributing to bone health and muscle maintenance.

Walnuts complement the ricotta with their rich, earthy flavor and crunchy texture. They are also loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and proteins, making them a superstar in any meal. Including walnuts in your diet can support brain health and reduce inflammation, adding a nutritious boost to your roasted sweet potato rounds.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish can stand alone as a stunning appetizer or side, but its versatility allows for many creative twists. Consider adding roasted garlic to the ricotta for an extra depth of flavor or drizzling a balsamic reduction over the top for a touch of sweetness and acidity. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes for a hint of heat, balancing the dish beautifully.

If you're looking to make it a complete meal, serve the roasted sweet potato rounds alongside grilled chicken or fish. They can also be served on a bed of fresh greens, transforming them into a colorful salad that is both filling and nutritious. Don't hesitate to experiment with different herbs or nuts, such as pecans or toasted almonds, to keep the dish exciting and suited to your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Enjoy your healthy and delicious dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet.

Season and Roast

Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato rounds, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until tender and golden.

Assemble the Dish

Remove the sweet potato rounds from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top each round with a spoonful of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a delightful appetizer or side dish.

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Sweet Potatoes Rounds!

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes

To ensure your sweet potatoes roast evenly, try to cut them into uniform 1/2-inch rounds. This allows for optimal cooking, resulting in tender potatoes without any burnt edges. If you're roasting larger batches, make sure to give them enough space on the baking sheet, as overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

For added flavor, consider tossing the sweet potatoes with spices before roasting. Paprika, cumin, or even a hint of cinnamon can enhance their natural sweetness and create a warm, inviting aroma in your kitchen. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor profiles to find your perfect combination.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover roasted sweet potato rounds, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish again without the hassle of cooking from scratch. To reheat them, simply pop them into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, preserving their texture.

For creative use of leftovers, consider adding the sweet potato rounds to breakfast dishes. They can be incorporated into a breakfast hash alongside eggs, or even blended into a smoothie for added sweetness and nutrition. Leftover ricotta can also be transformed into delicious pancakes or blended into a creamy dip for snacks.

Why Choose Seasonal Ingredients?

Using seasonal ingredients not only enhances the flavor of your dish but also supports local farmers and reduces your carbon footprint. Sweet potatoes, in particular, are typically in season from late summer through early winter, making them readily available and fresh. When you choose seasonal produce, you’re also opting for ingredients that are at their peak nutritional value.

Incorporating seasonal ingredients can inspire new recipe ideas and encourage variety in your meals. By rotating through what’s in season, you can enjoy a myriad of flavors and textures while making your cooking experience more enjoyable and innovative. This approach will keep your palate excited and your meals nutritious all year round.