There is something so comforting about a sheet pan of roasted vegetables coming out of the oven. The aroma fills the kitchen, and you know something delicious is just moments away. Today, we are talking about one of the absolute best combinations out there. It is one of those Roasted Sweet Potato Recipes that you will return to time and time again.
This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of broccoli. We then add a wonderful blend of savory seasonings, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and a fresh hint of lemon. It is one of those truly simple yet flavorful Sweet Potato Side Dishes that can go with almost anything. Let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, what is not to love about this recipe? It is incredibly simple to put together, making it one of the most approachable Easy Sweet Potato Recipes for a busy weeknight. You do not need any fancy equipment, just a baking sheet and your oven.
The flavor combination is just fantastic. You get sweetness from the potatoes, a savory bite from the broccoli and spices, salty goodness from the parmesan, and a zesty finish from the lemon. It hits all the right notes.
This is also a wonderfully versatile dish. It works beautifully as a side for roasted chicken, fish, or steak. You can even make it a main course by adding some chickpeas or serving it over quinoa. It fits right in with a collection of Healthy Sweet Potato Recipes.
Plus, it is so colorful! The bright orange of the sweet potatoes and the deep green of the broccoli look so appealing on a plate. We eat with our eyes first, and this dish is a feast for them. It is just a great recipe to have in your back pocket.
The texture is another big win. The sweet potatoes become soft and creamy on the inside with slightly caramelized edges. The broccoli gets tender with lovely crispy bits on the florets. It is a delightful mix in every bite.
Making delicious Savory Sweet Potato Recipes does not have to be complicated. This recipe proves that a few simple ingredients, when prepared well, can create something truly special. It is a celebration of simple, wholesome food that tastes amazing.
Ingredients
Here is what you will need to gather for this wonderful roasted vegetable dish. The ingredients are simple and easy to find at any grocery store.
- 1 ½ pounds sweet potato, about one large one, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 pound broccoli, which is about 1 to 2 bunches, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika powder, sweet or smoked works well
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes, this is optional for a little heat
And for the delicious toppings that take it over the top:
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- zest of 1 small lemon
- chopped parsley for garnish
Step By Step Instructions
Ready to make one of the most satisfying Roasted Sweet Potato Recipes ever? Follow these simple steps for a fantastic result every time. It’s a very straightforward process.
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
First things first, let’s get the oven ready. You will want to preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, or 200 degrees Celsius. A nice hot oven is key for getting that beautiful caramelization on the vegetables.
Next, prepare your baking sheet. I highly recommend lining it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you do not have parchment paper, a light coating of oil will also work.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Now it is time for the veggies. Peel your sweet potato and chop it into cubes that are about three quarters of an inch to one inch in size. Try to keep them relatively uniform so they cook evenly.
For the broccoli, cut it into bite size florets. You will want the broccoli pieces to be a little larger than the sweet potato cubes. This is because broccoli cooks a bit faster, and this size difference helps everything finish at the same time.
Step 3: Season Everything
Place all of your chopped sweet potato and broccoli directly onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with the olive oil. Now it is time for the flavor!
Sprinkle over the sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. If you like a little kick of heat, add the optional red chili flakes now. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss everything together. Make sure every single piece is coated in oil and spices.
Once everything is well mixed, spread the vegetables out in a single, even layer. This is very important! An even layer ensures proper roasting instead of steaming, which gives you those delicious crispy edges. We want good air circulation around each piece.
Step 4: Roast to Golden Goodness
Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Let the vegetables roast for about 25 to 35 minutes. About halfway through the cooking time, take the pan out and give the vegetables a good stir. This helps them brown evenly on all sides.
You will know they are done when they start to turn a beautiful golden brown color. A fork should easily pierce the sweet potato, but it should not be mushy. You want them tender, not falling apart.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping
Here comes the best part for all the cheese lovers. Once the vegetables are tender and golden, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over everything.
Return the pan to the oven for another 4 to 5 minutes. You are just looking for the cheese to melt and get a little bubbly. This adds a fantastic savory, salty crust that complements the other flavors so well. This step elevates many Savory Sweet Potato Recipes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Take the pan out of the oven one last time. For the final touch, grate the fresh lemon zest directly over the hot vegetables. The heat will release the oils in the zest, making your kitchen smell amazing. This adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness.
Finally, sprinkle with some freshly chopped parsley for a bit of color and freshness. Serve immediately while everything is warm and the cheese is melty. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How To Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers of this fantastic dish, storing them is very simple. Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture, making your next meal just as enjoyable.
The first step is to let the vegetables cool down completely. It is important to do this quickly to prevent them from getting soggy. Spreading them out on a plate can help speed up the cooling process.
Once cooled, transfer the roasted vegetables to an airtight container or a ziplock bag. Place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. They make for great, easy lunches!
You can also freeze these vegetables. For freezing, place them in a freezer safe airtight container or a heavy duty freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 4 months. When you are ready to eat them, you can reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to help them crisp up again.
Tips
Want to make your Roasted Sweet Potato Recipes even better? Here are a few simple tips that can make a big difference in the final result. These little adjustments can enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. This is probably the most important tip for roasting any vegetable. If the vegetables are too close together, they will steam instead of roast. Use two baking sheets if you need to, ensuring everything has enough space.
Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes as much as possible. This ensures that everything cooks at the same rate. You will not end up with some pieces that are undercooked while others are overly soft.
Feel free to experiment with the spices. While the recipe provides a great blend, you can customize it to your liking. A pinch of cumin can add a smoky depth, or a little chili powder can add a different kind of warmth. Making your own variations on Savory Sweet Potato Recipes is part of the fun.
Make sure your oven is fully preheated. Placing vegetables in an oven that is not hot enough can lead to a softer, less caramelized result. That initial blast of high heat is what helps create those desirable crispy edges.
Do not be shy with the seasoning. Vegetables can handle a good amount of salt and spices. A generous seasoning coat ensures every single bite is packed with flavor. This is key for creating memorable Sweet Potato Side Dishes.
Conclusion
And there you have it! A simple, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy sweet potatoes and broccoli. This recipe is all about taking simple ingredients and turning them into something special with just a few easy steps.
It is a fantastic example of how Easy Sweet Potato Recipes can be both comforting and full of flavor. The combination of sweet, savory, cheesy, and zesty notes makes it a real crowd pleaser. It is a dish that feels wholesome and satisfying.
Whether you are looking for new Sweet Potato Side Dishes or just want a reliable weeknight meal, this recipe is a great choice. I hope you enjoy making and eating these roasted vegetables as much as I do. It is one of those Roasted Sweet Potato Recipes that proves healthy eating can be incredibly tasty.
FAQ
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. You could swap the broccoli for other sturdy vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables might cook faster or slower than others.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Making a vegan version of this dish is very easy. The main recipe is already almost vegan. All you need to do is omit the parmesan cheese at the end. You could also use a store bought vegan parmesan alternative if you still want that cheesy flavor.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can do some prep work in advance to save time. You can peel and chop the sweet potato and broccoli a day or two ahead. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you are ready to cook, just toss them with the oil and spices and roast as directed.
What Can I Serve With These Roasted Vegetables?
This is one of those versatile Sweet Potato Side Dishes that pairs well with many main courses. It is excellent alongside roasted chicken, baked salmon, pork chops, or a juicy steak. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with quinoa, rice, or a hearty lentil soup.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
While fresh vegetables will give you the best texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Do not thaw them first. Place the frozen vegetables directly on the baking sheet, toss with oil and spices, and expect to add about 10 to 15 minutes to the roasting time. They may not get as crispy, but they will still be delicious. This is a great tip for Easy Sweet Potato Recipes.
Roasted Sweet Potato and Broccoli
This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of broccoli, savory seasonings, parmesan cheese, and a fresh hint of lemon. It’s a simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with almost anything, making it a healthy and easy weeknight option.
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly oil it.
- Peel and chop sweet potato into 3/4 to 1-inch cubes. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets, slightly larger than the sweet potato cubes.
- Place sweet potato and broccoli on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Add red chili flakes if desired. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread vegetables in a single, even layer on the baking sheet to ensure proper roasting.
- Roast for 25 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and tender. A fork should easily pierce the sweet potato.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and return to oven for 4 to 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven. Grate fresh lemon zest over the hot vegetables and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. If vegetables are too close, they will steam instead of roast. Use two baking sheets if needed.
Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder to customize the flavor.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for desired crispy edges.
Be generous with seasoning, as vegetables can handle a good amount of salt and spices.
Nutrition
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