Mediterranean Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Orange Zest Ricotta & Almonds
Mediterranean Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Orange Zest Ricotta & Almonds are a vibrant, flavorful, and wholesome dish that balances natural sweetness, creamy richness, and a satisfying crunch. Roasted sweet potatoes act as the perfect base, while the ricotta filling is light yet indulgent, subtly flavored with orange zest for freshness. Toasted almonds add texture, and a drizzle of honey or citrus glaze elevates every bite.
This recipe works beautifully as a vegetarian main, a side dish for Mediterranean-inspired meals, or even for meal prep that feels special without being complicated. Its bright, fresh flavors and layered textures make it both visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just a nourishing weeknight dinner, this dish hits the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
4 medium sweet potatoes
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Ricotta Filling
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 orange
1–2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Topping
1/3 cup almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
Fresh mint or parsley for garnish
Additional drizzle of honey or orange glaze
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly and prick them several times with a fork.
Rub sweet potatoes lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Roast in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork.
While the sweet potatoes roast, prepare the ricotta filling. In a bowl, combine ricotta, orange zest, honey, vanilla (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly. Cut a slit lengthwise along each potato and gently open.
Spoon the orange ricotta mixture evenly into each sweet potato.
Sprinkle toasted almonds over the top.
Drizzle with extra honey or orange glaze and garnish with fresh mint or parsley before serving.
Tips for Best Results
Choose sweet potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
Pierce the skins to allow steam to escape and avoid bursting.
Roast until fork-tender for creamy texture.
Warm ricotta slightly if too firm for easy spooning.
Toast almonds just before serving for the best flavor and crunch.
Use fresh orange zest rather than dried for a vibrant citrus note.
Adjust honey based on sweetness preference of sweet potatoes.
Serve immediately for the best contrast of textures.
Use a sharp knife to slit the potatoes for easy stuffing.
Garnish with herbs for color and a subtle herbal lift.
Variations
Mix in chopped pistachios instead of almonds for a Mediterranean twist.
Add a handful of pomegranate seeds for tartness and color.
Use mascarpone or cream cheese instead of ricotta for creamier filling.
Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the ricotta for warm spice.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for depth.
Include finely chopped dried apricots for extra sweetness and texture.
Fold in fresh orange segments into the filling.
Serve on a bed of arugula or spinach for a fresh contrast.
Top with toasted coconut for a tropical flavor profile.
Make it savory by adding crumbled feta and herbs instead of honey and orange.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, roast sweet potatoes in advance and assemble just before serving.
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Fresh is preferred, but fully thawed frozen sweet potatoes can work.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, fully vegetarian.
Can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based ricotta and maple syrup instead of honey.
Can I prep the ricotta filling ahead?
Yes, keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.
How do I store leftovers?
Store assembled or unassembled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I reheat it?
Yes, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Do the almonds need to be chopped?
Yes, roughly chopped almonds provide the best texture contrast.
Can I add more citrus flavor?
A light drizzle of fresh orange juice enhances brightness.
What pairs well with this dish?
Fresh greens, quinoa salad, or roasted vegetables complement it beautifully.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: Moderate
Values vary depending on sweet potato size, ricotta brand, and honey amount.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Orange Zest Ricotta & Almonds are a simple yet elegant dish that blends natural sweetness, creamy richness, and a satisfying crunch. The roasted sweet potatoes serve as a perfect base for the vibrant ricotta filling, while almonds and honey add texture and subtle warmth. Bright, fresh, and visually appealing, this recipe works for weeknight dinners, holiday sides, or a vegetarian main. Every bite delivers layers of flavor and texture that are unmistakably Mediterranean, making it a dish you’ll return to time and again.