SWEET POTATOES WITH BURRATA, ROASTED BEETS & WALNUT SAGE PESTO 🍠🧀🌿
📝 Description:
This vibrant and nourishing dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and beets with the creamy indulgence of burrata cheese. Topped with a fragrant walnut-sage pesto, it’s a deliciously elegant vegetarian meal or side dish, perfect for both cozy nights and entertaining.
🍽️ Servings: 4
⏲️ Prep Time: 15 min
⏲️ Cook Time: 40–45 min
🍴 Total Time: ~1 hour
🥕 Ingredients:
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Beets:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise
- 2 medium beets, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika for the sweet potatoes
For the Walnut Sage Pesto:
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup fresh sage leaves
- ½ cup fresh parsley or spinach (for balance)
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional for a cheesier pesto)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 burrata balls (4 oz each)
- Extra sage leaves (fried for garnish)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze (optional for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the Veggies:
- Toss beet cubes in 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the sweet potato halves cut-side down on the same or a separate sheet, brush lightly with oil and season.
- Roast for 35–45 minutes or until fork-tender and caramelized.
- Make the Walnut Sage Pesto:
- In a food processor, pulse walnuts, sage, parsley/spinach, garlic, and Parmesan (if using).
- Stream in olive oil and lemon juice until smooth or slightly chunky.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Assemble:
- Place roasted sweet potatoes on a platter. Top with roasted beets.
- Tear open burrata and dollop generously on top.
- Spoon pesto over everything.
- Optional: Top with fried sage, chili flakes, and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze.
Tips & Notes:
- Time-Saving Tip: Roast beets and sweet potatoes a day ahead and reheat before serving.
- Vegan Option: Replace burrata with cashew cream or vegan ricotta, and omit Parmesan from the pesto.
- Texture Tip: Toast the walnuts for a nuttier, deeper flavor. You can also add pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and crunch.
- Serving Idea: Serve over arugula or farro for a more complete entrée.
Nutritional Info (per serving – approx):
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fats: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 8g
Note: May vary based on exact ingredient quantities and brands used.
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and complex carbs.
- Beets: Great for circulation and liver support.
- Burrata: A source of protein and calcium (in moderation).
- Sage & Walnuts: Anti-inflammatory and brain-boosting fats.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use golden beets instead of red beets?
A: Absolutely! Golden beets are slightly milder and won’t stain the burrata.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, roast the vegetables and make the pesto in advance. Assemble just before serving.
Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A: A crisp white (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a light red (like Pinot Noir) pairs beautifully.