Perfect for health-conscious holiday feasts
These roasted sweet potato rounds are a game-changer for your Christmas menu. Caramelized to perfection with a crisp exterior and tender interior, they offer a naturally sweet, low-calorie side that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or plant-based mains. With just 120 calories per serving, they’re a guilt-free way to celebrate the holidays!
Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or preparing a make-ahead side, these rounds are easy to customize with herbs and spices. The natural sugars caramelize during baking, creating a sweet and savory balance that complements any holiday main dish.
This recipe is gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and packed with vitamins A and C. It’s also a great way to use up leftover sweet potatoes from other recipes. Ready to make your holiday table healthier and more festive? Let’s dive into the details!
The key to perfect rounds is achieving that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside moist. We’ll walk you through the steps, from slicing to seasoning, ensuring every bite is a delightful combination of textures.
By the end, you’ll have a side dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a lighter holiday meal.
Why This Recipe Works
Healthy & Nutritious
Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants while being low in calories and fat. A guilt-free holiday side!
Easy to Customize
Add rosemary, thyme, or cinnamon to match your holiday menu. The base recipe is neutral but versatile.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Prepare the rounds up to 24 hours in advance and reheat for a stress-free dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing
Appealing golden color and caramelized edges make them a hit with both kids and adults.
Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds
Caramelized perfection for your holiday table
Ingredients
- - 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp sea salt
- - 1 tsp black pepper
- - 1 tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
Prep Sweet Potatoes: Wash and slice sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch rounds. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
💡 Use a mandoline for even slices, but hand-slicing works too!
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place rounds in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets. Avoid overlapping for even cooking.
💡 Use two sheets if needed to prevent crowding.
Roast to Perfection: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway. Edges should be golden and slightly crisp.
💡 Check for doneness with a fork – tender but not mushy.
Serve Immediately: Sprinkle with additional sea salt and fresh herbs (like rosemary) before serving.
💡 Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes if needed.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes
Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color. Use Yukon Gold or Russet as alternatives.
Substitutions: Sweet potato puree (rehydrate with oil), but texture will differ.
Olive Oil
Adds richness and helps achieve a crisp exterior. Avocado oil works similarly.
Substitutions: Butter (for extra flavor), but oil is better for crispiness.
Sea Salt
Enhances natural sweetness. Kosher salt can be used in equal measure.
Substitutions: Reduce by 1/4 if using table salt.
Paprika
Adds warmth and color. Optional for a milder flavor profile.
Substitutions: Smoked paprika for depth, or omit entirely.
Pro Tips for Perfect Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds
Even Slicing
Use a mandoline for uniform thickness. Uneven slices will cook at different rates.
High Heat
Roast at 425°F (220°C) to caramelize edges while keeping interiors tender.
Toss Well
Ensure even oil distribution by tossing in a large bowl. Use your hands for best coverage.
Don’t Overcrowd
Leave space between rounds on the baking sheet. Overlapping leads to steaming, not roasting.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Sweet Potatoes
Add 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/2 tsp nutmeg for a warm, holiday flavor.
Herb-Infused
Mix in 1 tbsp chopped rosemary or thyme before roasting for aromatic freshness.
Maple Glaze
Brush with a mix of 2 tbsp maple syrup and 1 tbsp olive oil before serving for extra sweetness.
Vegan Version
Ensure all ingredients are vegan (e.g., no animal-derived oils). Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for umami.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted turkey with herb stuffing
- Grilled plant-based main dishes
- Quinoa salad with cranberries and pecans
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a spiced chai for a festive touch.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the rounds up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
Keep cooked rounds in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked rounds for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Use an oven for best results. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why are my sweet potato rounds soggy?
A: Overcrowding the baking sheet causes steaming instead of roasting. Use parchment paper and avoid overlapping.
Q: Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
A: Thaw completely first. Frozen potatoes release more moisture, so adjust baking time by +5-10 minutes.
Q: How to fix under-seasoned rounds?
A: Brush with a mixture of olive oil and spices while hot. Toss in a bowl for even coverage.
Q: Can I add cheese?
A: Sprinkle Parmesan or vegan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a rich twist.
Final Thoughts
These roasted sweet potato rounds are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of flavor, health, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re hosting a traditional Christmas dinner or a modern plant-based feast, they bring warmth and texture to your table. The caramelized edges and tender interiors are sure to impress, while the low-calorie count makes them guilt-free for even the most health-conscious guests.
Try experimenting with different spices and herbs to match your menu. Share this recipe with friends who love healthy, festive cooking, and don’t forget to pin it for future holidays. Happy cooking—and here’s to a delicious, light-hearted Christmas!
