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Roasted sweet potato rounds with honey and feta is my go-to dish when I want something special that is still quick to assemble from everyday ingredients. The combination of warm, caramelized sweet potatoes, tangy feta, sweet honey, and aromatic thyme makes each bite feel like a treat, whether you serve this for a holiday, potluck, or just a simple weeknight.
The first time I made these, my family swooped in before I even finished garnishing. Now it is a must-have side for both cozy dinners and bigger gatherings.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Large sweet potatoes: Sliced into thick rounds for a hearty base and rich flavor. Tip for best results: pick firm, unblemished skins and check for even sizing.
- Olive oil: For roasting, which encourages browning and keeps the potatoes tender inside. Try to use a fruity extra virgin olive oil for best taste.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To enhance natural sweetness. Choose flaky salt for a boost of flavor.
- Crumbled feta cheese: For creamy tangy contrast. Spring for good quality feta in brine for maximum creaminess.
- Honey: For a beautiful glossy finish and deep sweetness. Local honey is especially fragrant.
- Fresh thyme leaves: To add a fresh herbal note. Chop just before using for the brightest flavor.
- Optional cayenne pepper: For a punch of heat if you like a bit of kick. Add it after roasting for the best flavor.
How to Make It
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Warm your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to keep clean up easy and prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Sweet Potatoes:
- Trim both ends of the sweet potatoes and slice them into even rounds about one quarter inch thick. You want them thick enough to hold together while roasting.
- Season and Oil:
- Lay the rounds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, making sure every piece is seasoned well.
- Roast to Perfection:
- Place in the hot oven and roast for twenty to twenty five minutes, flipping each round halfway through. Use a thin spatula to turn gently. When you see the undersides take on deep golden color, know they are ready.
- Top with Feta and Honey:
- The moment the sweet potatoes come out of the oven, scatter crumbled feta generously across the hot rounds. Let the warmth soften the cheese slightly.
- Add Final Touches:
- Drizzle the honey in thin ribbons over each piece so every bite gets a bit of sweetness. Sprinkle chopped thyme leaves for fragrance and a burst of freshness. If you love heat, dust lightly with cayenne pepper now.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Move the sweet potato rounds to a plate or serving platter. Serve them warm right away, either as a side for dinner or a crowd pleasing appetizer.
My daughters love helping with the honey drizzle at the end, and there is always a little competition for who gets the first taste from the baking tray. The balance of savory feta and sweet honey is what makes this so special for our family gatherings.
Flavor Boosters
Slice sweet potatoes as evenly as possible for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan or rounds will steam instead of roast. Tossing the feta on while rounds are still hot helps it soften just a bit and stick perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a festive appetizer arranged in a circle on a platter with extra honey on the side. Pair with simple grilled meats or fish for a nourishing complete meal. Pile onto a big salad with greens, walnuts, and dried cranberries for lunch.
Creative Twists
Swap goat cheese for feta if you want a milder flavor and extra creaminess. Maple syrup can replace honey for a deeper earthy sweetness. Try rosemary instead of thyme for a woodsy twist.
These sweet potato rounds are a hit at gatherings and are just as delicious the next day. Give them a try and watch them disappear fast!
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How thick should I slice the sweet potatoes?
Slice sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds for even roasting and a tender texture.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can roast the sweet potato rounds ahead, but add feta, honey, and thyme just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What type of honey should I use?
Use any good-quality honey; wildflower or clover honey both pair well with the natural sweetness of sweet potato and tangy feta.
- → Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese or ricotta salata can replace feta for a different but still flavorful topping.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat sweet potato rounds in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding extra honey and thyme if needed.