Sweet Potato Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
For the Salad Dressing:
- 30g (1 oz) walnuts
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cloves garlic
- 10 ml (2 tsp) apple cider vinegar
- 20 ml (4 tsp) olive oil
- 50 ml (3.5 tbsp) water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 small bunch parsley
Directions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potato:
- Peel and dice the sweet potato into bite-sized cubes. Boil or steam until tender, about 10-15 minutes, then let cool. For added flavor, you can roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead.
- Chop the Vegetables:
- Finely chop the chives, halve the cherry tomatoes, and rinse the fresh spinach leaves.
- Prepare the Salad Dressing:
- In a blender, combine parsley, walnuts, avocado, garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, water, and salt.
- Blend until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sweet potato, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and chives.
- Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to individual serving bowls and enjoy fresh.
- Prepare the Sweet Potato:
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for a light meal or as a side with grilled proteins like chicken or tofu.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted seeds (sunflower or pumpkin) for added crunch.
- Pair it with a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing accompaniment.
Cooking Tips:
- Roast the sweet potato for a richer, caramelized flavor instead of boiling it.
- Toast the walnuts before blending for a nuttier, deeper flavor in the dressing.
- Substitute arugula or kale for spinach if you want a heartier green in the salad.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Sweet Potatoes: High in fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamin A, promoting good vision and skin health.
- Spinach: Rich in iron, folate, and vitamins C and K, supporting healthy blood and immune function.
- Walnuts and Avocado: Provide healthy fats that support heart health and brain function.
- Garlic: Contains compounds that help boost the immune system.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: Contains no animal products.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Sugar: The salad contains no added sugars, making it a healthy choice for those watching their sugar intake.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 5g