Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey and Feta – A Sweet & Savory Holiday Side
There’s something magical about the combination of roasted sweet potatoes, creamy feta, and golden honey. Each bite is a balance of sweet and salty, tender and crisp, simple yet indulgent. Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey and Feta is the kind of side dish that effortlessly bridges everyday meals and festive gatherings.
The natural caramelization of sweet potatoes creates a deep, earthy sweetness when roasted, while the tangy feta adds a rich, salty contrast. Drizzle with a touch of warm honey, sprinkle fresh herbs, and you’ve got a side that’s not only beautiful but brimming with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing a holiday feast, this dish delivers elegance with ease.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or rosemary)
- Optional garnish: crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even ½-inch thick rounds to ensure they roast evenly.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Make sure each slice is evenly coated.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overlapping.
- Roast: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and crisp, and the centers are tender.
- Add toppings: Transfer roasted sweet potato rounds to a serving platter. Drizzle with warm honey, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and scatter fresh thyme leaves on top.
- Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer. Add a few crushed walnuts for extra crunch if desired.
Tips & Tricks:
- Choose firm sweet potatoes: They roast better and hold their shape well when sliced.
- For extra caramelization: Roast slightly longer at 425°F (220°C) for crispier edges.
- Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of hot honey or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a sweet-heat kick.
- Go dairy-free: Substitute feta with a vegan alternative or omit entirely and add toasted nuts instead.
Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey and Feta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and slice sweet potatoes into even ½-inch rounds.
- Toss rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
- Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Transfer to a serving platter, drizzle with honey, sprinkle with feta and thyme, and serve warm.
Notes
Variations:
- Mediterranean Style: Add a handful of chopped kalamata olives and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
- Holiday Flair: Top with pomegranate seeds for festive color and a burst of tart flavor.
- Savory Touch: Replace honey with a touch of maple syrup and add crispy bacon bits for a sweet-salty combination.
- Greek-Inspired: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on each round before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
These roasted sweet potato rounds make an elegant side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or holiday ham. They also shine as a vegetarian appetizer at dinner parties or potlucks. Try serving them on a large white platter, drizzled with extra honey and sprinkled with herbs—guests will reach for them faster than traditional canapés.
They pair beautifully with leafy green salads, especially those with citrus vinaigrettes or toasted nuts. You can even layer them on crostini for a creative appetizer twist.
Storage Information:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible—it tends to make the rounds soft.
For meal prep, roast the sweet potatoes in advance and store them separately from the honey and feta. Drizzle and garnish right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQ:
- Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes? Yes, but note that yams have a slightly different texture and less sweetness. Adjust honey to taste.
- Can I air fry them? Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- What can I substitute for feta? Goat cheese works beautifully—it melts slightly into the warm rounds for an extra creamy texture.
- Can I make them ahead? Roast the rounds and store them in the fridge. Add honey and feta just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
History / Fun Facts:
Sweet potatoes are native to Central and South America, and they’ve been cultivated for thousands of years. The blend of sweet and savory flavors in this dish celebrates the global appeal of the humble sweet potato. While roasting them with honey and feta feels modern, the roots of this combination stretch back to Mediterranean cuisine—where salty cheeses like feta are often paired with naturally sweet ingredients like figs, grapes, and roasted root vegetables.
This recipe reflects the modern “less-is-more” cooking philosophy—minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. The simple act of roasting transforms the sweet potato’s natural sugars into a caramelized, golden delight, while honey and feta elevate it into something special. It’s proof that sometimes, the best dishes are born from balance.
