Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Elevate your side dish game with these Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes. This deliciously unique recipe features tender, sliced sweet potatoes drizzled with a rich maple glaze and topped with crunchy pecans for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, these sweet potatoes will impress every guest at your table.
This recipe transforms a classic side dish into something truly extraordinary. With the addition of maple syrup and crunchy pecans, these sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at any meal.
Elevate Your Holiday Table
Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes bring a unique twist to traditional holiday sides. Their visually stunning presentation creates an inviting centerpiece for your dining table. Each sweet potato is carefully sliced, which allows the rich flavors of maple syrup and the crunchy texture of pecans to blend beautifully. This dish not only enhances the aesthetics of your meal but also caters to a variety of palates, making it a welcome addition to any festive feast.
The combination of sweet and savory elements in this dish is sure to delight your guests. The inherent sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the caramel notes in the maple syrup, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. When served alongside savory roasted meats or plant-based proteins, these sweet potatoes provide a delightful contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
Nutritional Benefits
Sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses packed with vitamins and minerals. Rich in fiber and antioxidants, they contribute to healthy digestion and may help reduce inflammation. Incorporating sweet potatoes into your meals can also lead to improved blood sugar regulation, making them a heart-healthy choice. When drizzled with maple syrup and topped with pecans, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also serves as a wholesome option for your dining table.
Pecans, often overlooked, are another highlight of this recipe. They are loaded with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium and zinc. Adding pecans not only boosts the flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile of the dish. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side or an opportunity to indulge guilt-free, these Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes fit the bill perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
These Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal side dish for various occasions. During holiday gatherings, serve them alongside your favorite glazed ham or stuffed turkey, allowing the sweet and savory elements to meld together harmoniously. For a more casual weeknight dinner, pair them with grilled chicken or a hearty salad, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the meal.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the maple glaze. This subtle enhancement can elevate the dish to new heights, making it even more memorable for special occasions. Whether you're hosting a festive dinner party or enjoying a casual evening at home, these sweet potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your serving size!
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes, then cut them in a Hasselback style, making slits down the potato without cutting all the way through.
Season and Add Maple Glaze
Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Pour the maple syrup over them, ensuring it seeps into the cuts.
Bake the Potatoes
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes.
Add Pecans
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven, sprinkle chopped pecans on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until tender.
Let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you have leftovers from your delicious Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is easy and can be done in the oven or microwave. When reheating, consider adding a splash of maple syrup for that fresh-out-of-the-oven flavor, ensuring that they retain their deliciously moist texture.
For meal prep, you can slice the sweet potatoes and prepare the maple glaze ahead of time. Just store the slices in cold water to prevent browning, and keep the glaze refrigerated. When you're ready to cook, simply drain the potatoes, drizzle the glaze, and pop them in the oven. This makes it convenient to enjoy this delightful side dish on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is sure to be a hit, consider trying out variations to keep things exciting. For a spicier kick, sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder over the sweet potatoes before baking. The heat will contrast beautifully with the sweet maple syrup, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that will intrigue your taste buds.
You might also experiment with different nuts; walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes for pecans. Additionally, adding a dollop of creamy goat cheese or feta cheese right before serving can introduce a tangy element that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes and syrup. Enjoy customizing this dish to make it your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular potatoes instead?
Yes, but sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor and texture.
Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes. This deliciously unique recipe features tender, sliced sweet potatoes drizzled with a rich maple glaze and topped with crunchy pecans for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, these sweet potatoes will impress every guest at your table.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes, then cut them in a Hasselback style, making slits down the potato without cutting all the way through.
Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Pour the maple syrup over them, ensuring it seeps into the cuts.
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes.
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven, sprinkle chopped pecans on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until tender.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 3g