Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta and Walnuts -

Sweet potato rounds topped with herbed ricotta and walnuts make for an elegant and nutritious appetizer or festive side dish. This dish is loaded with flavor, offering a delightful blend of the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, the creaminess of ricotta, and the crunch of toasted walnuts.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only visually appealing but also incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of flavors and textures creates a gourmet experience at home, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The sweet potato serves as a healthy base, while the herbed ricotta brings a fresh touch, and toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s easy to customize; you can add pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs for extra flair!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta and Walnuts

Choose firm sweet potatoes: Select sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes to ensure even cooking and great flavor.

Don’t skip toasting the walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your dish.
Experiment with herbs: While thyme and rosemary are delicious, feel free to try basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
Serving suggestions: This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or as part of a larger spread. It can also be served as a light lunch or a component in a grain bowl.

Prep in advance: You can slice the sweet potatoes and prepare the herbed ricotta ahead of time to make assembling the dish quicker.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to create this delicious dish:

2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into -inch thick rounds

1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup ricotta cheese

1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

Optional: pomegranate seeds, for garnish
Fresh herbs, for garnish

Directions

Follow these easy steps to make your sweet potato rounds:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Arrange the sweet potato rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: While the sweet potatoes roast, combine ricotta cheese, finely chopped herbs, and honey in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Once the sweet potatoes are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly.

Step 7: Top each round with a spoonful of herbed ricotta, sprinkle with toasted walnuts, and garnish with fresh herbs and optional pomegranate seeds.
Step 8: Serve warm or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato rounds and herbed ricotta beforehand. Just assemble the dish before serving to keep the sweet potatoes fresh.
2. What herbs can I use?: Thyme and rosemary work well, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or dill according to your taste preferences.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?: Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian as it uses plant-based ingredients and dairy alternatives.
4. Can I substitute ricotta cheese?: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based ricotta or create a cashew cream mixture for a similar consistency.
5. How can I store leftovers?: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Sweet potato rounds with herbed ricotta and walnuts are not just a feast for the eyes; they offer a captivating blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests or family. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a nutritious side dish, this recipe celebrates the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while introducing a savory twist with creaminess from ricotta and the crunch of walnuts. Try it at your next gathering or as a delicious addition to a cozy meal at home. Happy cooking!