🍠 Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Maple, Feta & Crunchy Walnuts (Mediterranean)
📝 Description
These caramelized sweet potatoes are roasted until golden and tender, lightly glazed with pure maple syrup and olive oil, then finished with briny feta, toasted walnuts, and fresh herbs. Inspired by Mediterranean cooking, this dish balances natural sweetness, healthy fats, and texture—making it perfect as a side dish, vegetarian main, or holiday-worthy plate.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
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2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1½ tbsp pure maple syrup
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp smoked paprika
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¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
Toppings
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½ cup crumbled feta cheese
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⅓ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
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1 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
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Optional: lemon zest or chili flakes
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Season potatoes
In a bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Roast
Spread in a single layer and roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized and fork-tender. -
Toast walnuts
While potatoes roast, toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. -
Finish
Transfer potatoes to a serving dish. Sprinkle with feta, toasted walnuts, and fresh herbs. -
Serve
Finish with lemon zest or chili flakes if desired.
🫒 Mediterranean Nutrition Highlights
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Naturally sweet, no refined sugar
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Healthy fats from olive oil & walnuts
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Calcium & protein from feta
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Fiber-rich & gluten-free
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes—skip feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Roast potatoes ahead and add toppings just before serving.
Q: Is maple syrup Mediterranean?
A: While not traditional, small amounts align with Mediterranean principles of natural sweeteners used sparingly.
Q: Can I air-fry this?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, shaking halfway.
Q: What pairs well with this dish?
A: Greek chicken, baked salmon, lentil salads, or grilled halloumi.
