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These sweet potato bites with honey and feta bring together a wonderful balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors perfect for an appetizer or side dish. The combination of tender roasted sweet potatoes with creamy feta and fragrant thyme drizzled with honey makes this a crowd-pleaser year-round.
I first made these for a casual get-together and they disappeared so fast my friends kept asking for the recipe. Now they are a go-to when I want to impress without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- Two large sweet potatoes: peeled and sliced into half-inch rounds for even cooking and the perfect bite size
- Two tablespoons olive oil: to promote caramelization and keep the potatoes moist
- Half a teaspoon salt: to bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes
- Quarter teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: for a subtle spicy kick
- Half a teaspoon garlic powder: adds a gentle depth of flavor freshly ground is best for potency
- Half a cup feta cheese: crumbled on top adds creaminess and a sharp salty contrast
- One tablespoon fresh thyme: chopped for an aromatic herbal note choose bright green sprigs
- Two tablespoons honey: drizzled at the end creates a glossy sweetness that ties all the flavors together beautifully
Instructions
- Prepare sweet potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. Carefully arrange the peeled sweet potato rounds in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Season and oil:
- Brush both sides of each sweet potato slice with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt freshly ground black pepper and garlic powder. Make sure each slice is fully coated to encourage great browning and enhanced flavor throughout.
- Roast to perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the sweet potato rounds for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip each piece halfway through the cooking time so both sides get golden and slightly crisp. If you want more caramelization add a few extra minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Top with feta and thyme:
- Once roasted transfer the sweet potatoes to your serving platter and work quickly while they’re warm. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over each piece then add the chopped fresh thyme for a pop of herbal freshness.
- Finish with honey:
- Using a small spoon or honey dipper drizzle honey evenly across all the sweet potato bites. The honey melts gently into the warm potatoes and feta creating an unbeatable balance of flavors. Serve warm or let them cool to room temperature which truly showcases the texture.
I always love how the fresh thyme lifts the entire dish—once I added it on a whim and it quickly became a family favorite. These bites remind me of summer evenings with good company and simple satisfying food.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven for best texture or enjoy cold as a snack. These are best eaten within three days for optimal flavor and freshness.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have fresh thyme use dried thyme but use half the amount as it is more concentrated. Goat cheese can replace feta if you prefer a milder tang. Maple syrup can substitute for honey if you prefer a less floral sweetness.
Serving suggestions
Serve alongside a crisp green salad to lighten the meal. These bites also pair wonderfully with roasted meats or a platter of assorted cheeses for a party spread.
Toast the garlic powder lightly with the sweet potatoes if you want a more intense garlicky flavor—just watch it does not burn.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What’s the best way to get crispy edges on the sweet potatoes?
Brush the slices evenly with olive oil on both sides and roast them at high heat (425°F) flipping halfway through. This ensures golden, crispy edges while keeping the centers tender.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Yes, cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta salata work well, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweet potatoes and honey.
- → What herbs pair well with sweet potatoes and feta?
Fresh thyme is ideal, but rosemary, sage, or oregano can offer a lovely aromatic layer; add them just before serving.
- → Is there a way to make these bites vegan-friendly?
Omit the feta and replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based alternative that still preserves the sweet and savory balance.
- → How long should I roast the sweet potatoes for best results?
Roast for 20-25 minutes at 425°F, flipping halfway through until tender with caramelized edges. Extend roasting a few minutes if a deeper caramelization is desired.