With their vibrant color and gourmet flair, these Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries are the perfect appetizer or side dish for holiday gatherings or cozy dinner parties. Each bite combines creamy, tangy ricotta with the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, topped off with crunchy walnuts and a pop of tart cranberries.
This recipe delivers a balanced mix of textures and flavors: the warmth of roasted sweet potatoes, the richness of herbed cheese, the crunch of nuts, and a burst of brightness from cranberries. It looks impressive, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients for this Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries
- 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup toasted walnut halves, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (or fresh if in season)
- Optional: honey or maple syrup drizzle for serving
- Optional garnish: additional parsley or microgreens
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potato Rounds
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the sweet potato slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Herbed Ricotta
While the sweet potatoes roast, mix the ricotta cheese with chopped chives, parsley, and lemon zest. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Toast the Walnuts (if not pre-toasted)
Place walnut halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Remove from heat and chop roughly.
Step 4: Assemble the Rounds
Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted, transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon a dollop of herbed ricotta onto each round. Top with chopped walnuts and cranberries.
Step 5: Optional Garnish and Drizzle
For extra flair, drizzle with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with more parsley or microgreens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Roast the sweet potato rounds and prepare the herbed ricotta up to a day in advance. Assemble just before serving for best texture and appearance.
Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely. Goat cheese or whipped feta make excellent substitutes for ricotta, adding their own unique tang.
Are there nut-free alternatives?
You can substitute the walnuts with roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and maple syrup instead of honey to make the dish vegan.
What kind of cranberries should I use?
Dried cranberries are perfect, but if you have fresh cranberries during the season, quickly cook them with a bit of sugar to soften and sweeten them.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes! While delicious warm, these bites also taste great chilled, making them a great make-ahead option for parties.
Leave a Reply