Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Elevate your roasted sweet potatoes with this delicious Hasselback Maple Pecan recipe. Featuring perfectly sliced sweet potatoes drizzled with rich maple syrup and topped with crunchy pecans, this dish offers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as a stunning side for holiday gatherings or any cozy dinner, these sweet potatoes will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
This Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes recipe transforms a simple dish into an extraordinary experience. The Hasselback technique allows for even cooking and enhances flavor absorption, making each bite a delight.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes bring a unique twist to your traditional sweet potato dishes. Their eye-catching presentation makes them perfect for festive gatherings, family holidays, or intimate dinners. Impress your guests with not just the flavors, but also the artistry of the dish. The Hasselback technique creates a delightful texture that elevates the overall experience far beyond ordinary roasted sweet potatoes.
By combining the health benefits of sweet potatoes with the rich taste of maple syrup and the crunchiness of pecans, you create a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will appreciate.
Tasty Variations
While the original recipe for Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes is undeniably delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or cinnamon can create a warm, inviting flavor profile. Alternatively, for a more savory touch, consider incorporating garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the olive oil drizzle.
If you're looking to change up the nuts, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or even almonds for a different crunch. Experimenting with different toppings such as crumbled feta or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add exciting layers of flavor to this versatile dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers—or simply want to prepare your Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes ahead of time—you can easily store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep the flavors fresh, be sure to separate the pecans if possible, as they can lose their crunch when stored alongside the sweet potatoes.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the sweet potatoes tender and allows the topping to regain some of its original texture. A quick drizzle of maple syrup upon reheating can help bring back that sweet, indulgent flavor!
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly before you begin!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes and slice them thinly, making sure not to cut all the way through to maintain the Hasselback shape.
Drizzle and Season
Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Arrange them in a baking dish.
Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Add Maple Syrup and Pecans
Remove from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.
Finish Baking
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Nutritional Benefits
Sweet potatoes are not just a treat for your taste buds; they also come packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, promoting good vision and a healthy immune system. Additionally, their high fiber content can aid in digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer.
By adding maple syrup, you introduce antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and improve heart health. Pecans, on the other hand, are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, making this dish a balanced option that nourishes both body and soul.
Serving Suggestions
Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses. They pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, but they are also versatile enough to complement vegetarian meals such as quinoa salad or grilled vegetables. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad for a complete and wholesome meal.
Feel free to enhance your dining experience by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for added creaminess. A side of cranberry sauce can also provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a festival of flavors on your plate.
Cooking Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Hasselback cut can be tricky, but a little patience goes a long way. Use a sharp knife and cut the sweet potatoes into even slices, making sure not to cut all the way through. Placing the sweet potatoes between two wooden chopsticks can help prevent you from slicing too deeply, ensuring they maintain their structure as they bake.
Keep an eye on them while they bake; ovens can vary significantly. If the sweet potatoes are browning too quickly, consider covering them lightly with aluminum foil to avoid burning. This way, you get those beautifully caramelized edges without sacrificing tenderness!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and store them covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.
Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your roasted sweet potatoes with this delicious Hasselback Maple Pecan recipe. Featuring perfectly sliced sweet potatoes drizzled with rich maple syrup and topped with crunchy pecans, this dish offers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as a stunning side for holiday gatherings or any cozy dinner, these sweet potatoes will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes and slice them thinly, making sure not to cut all the way through to maintain the Hasselback shape.
Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Arrange them in a baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g