Hearty and Colorful Gluten-Free Sweet Potato and Spinach Salad with Maple-Dijon Dressing

Sweet Potato with Spinach is a Great Combo and Gluten-Free

Growing up, sweet potatoes were always a staple on our dinner table, but it wasn't until I started experimenting in my own kitchen that I realized just how versatile they could be. One of my favorite ways to elevate this humble root vegetable is by roasting it and pairing it with fresh, vibrant spinach. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes combined with the earthiness of spinach creates a beautiful and nutritious dish. What I love about this recipe is not just the taste but the visual appeal—the deep orange of the sweet potatoes against the vibrant green of the spinach makes for a stunning presentation. This dish has quickly become a favorite, whether I'm serving it as a colorful side dish or as a light meal on its own.

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Did You Know?

Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Vitamin A, in particular, is essential for maintaining healthy vision and a strong immune system. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes are slowly released into the bloodstream, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Including sweet potatoes in your diet can support overall health and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

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Yield: 4 servings

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Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups baby spinach
• 1/4 cup pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Maple-Dijon Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions:

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden. Allow to cool.
Personal Tip: Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a slightly crispy exterior that's perfect for this salad.

Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Personal Tip: This dressing is a great balance of tangy and sweet, which complements the flavors of the salad beautifully.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries. Drizzle the maple-Dijon dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Personal Tip: Tossing the salad just before serving ensures that the spinach stays crisp and the flavors are well-distributed.

Serve:

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Personal Tip: This salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile option for any meal.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 280 | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fiber: 6g | Sugars: 12g | Protein: 3g

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Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Bulk Buying: Purchase sweet potatoes and pecans in bulk. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run.
2. Homemade Dressing: If store-bought dressings are expensive or contain unwanted additives, consider making your own. Whipping up a batch of maple-Dijon dressing with simple ingredients is cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and quality.
3. Reusable Storage Containers: Invest in reusable storage containers for your salads. These containers are not only environmentally friendly but also save money over time compared to disposable options.
4. Energy Efficiency: Roast sweet potatoes in large batches and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient.
5. Smart Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, providing a convenient and healthy meal throughout the week.
6. Ingredient Substitutions: If dried cranberries are unavailable or too expensive, you can use raisins or dried cherries for a similar tangy flavor.
7. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your salad, such as a sprinkle of goat cheese (for non-vegans) or a handful of pumpkin seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
8. DIY Maple-Dijon Dressing: Make your own maple-Dijon dressing in larger batches and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This dressing is versatile and can be used on other salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade.
9. Learning and Sharing: Join online gluten-free cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community.
10. Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your salad by arranging the ingredients in a colorful and artistic manner. These additions not only add flavor but also create a beautiful presentation for your meal.

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Let’s Learn About Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are root vegetables native to Central and South America, known for their sweet flavor and vibrant orange flesh. They thrive in warm climates and are typically harvested 90-120 days after planting. Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes are part of the morning glory family and grow underground. After harvest, they need to cure in warm, humid conditions to develop their sweetness and extend their shelf life.

When choosing sweet potatoes, look for firm, smooth skin without bruises or cuts. They should feel heavy for their size, which indicates moisture and freshness. While they are often free from heavy pesticide use, buying organic is a great way to avoid any potential contaminants.

Sweet potatoes can be stored in a cool, dark place, away from the refrigerator, to prevent them from becoming too hard. Nutritionally, they are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants like beta-carotene, which can improve eye health and boost your immune system. Whether roasted, mashed, or baked, sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes!