Sweet Potato, Cranberry & Feta Salad with Maple Dressing

Introduction

Sweet potatoes, cranberries, and feta cheese come together in a colorful and tasty salad. This Sweet Potato, Cranberry & Feta Salad with Maple Dressing is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal, whether you are hosting friends or enjoying a healthy dinner at home.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make this salad. First, it is a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. The combination of cranberries and feta adds a unique twist that is both savory and sweet. The maple dressing ties everything together with a delightful flavor. Plus, it’s a healthy dish full of vitamins, making it a smart choice for your meals.

How to Make Sweet Potato, Cranberry & Feta Salad with Maple Dressing

Making this salad is simple and quick! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare it with ease.

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting)
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups mixed salad greens
1/2 cup dried cranberries
100 g feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or walnuts (optional)
3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, roasted sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, feta, and pumpkin seeds or walnuts if you are using them.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
Drizzle the maple dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Sweet Potato, Cranberry & Feta Salad with Maple Dressing

This salad can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch. Feel free to add more toppings like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.

How to Store Sweet Potato, Cranberry & Feta Salad with Maple Dressing

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten within 1-2 days. If you want to keep the salad fresh longer, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Tips to Make Sweet Potato, Cranberry & Feta Salad with Maple Dressing

Make sure to cut the sweet potatoes into even cubes for even roasting.
Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your taste preference.
Try adding other nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
For a vegan option, swap out the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative.

Variation

You can customize this salad by adding different ingredients like sliced apples for added crunch or swapping out the feta cheese for goat cheese. You might also replace pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and dressing in advance. Just mix everything together right before serving.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten intolerance.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but fresh cranberries are tart. You might want to use a bit more maple syrup to balance the flavors if you choose to use fresh ones.