This Spicy Sweet Potato and Avocado Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of ripe avocados. Enhanced with fresh ingredients and a zesty lime dressing, this salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a filling dinner. The addition of kidney beans provides a protein boost, making this meal not only delicious but also satisfying. With the kick of chili and the freshness of parsley, this salad is a delightful explosion of flavors that will impress your family and friends.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 sweet potatoes
Salt (to taste)

Olive oil (for roasting)
2 avocados (ripe)
1/2 chili (fresh or dried, depending on your spice preference)

3 cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 lime (juiced)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

1 shallot (finely chopped)
1 clove of garlic (minced)
Chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

130g (about 4.6 oz) kidney beans (cooked and drained)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Wash and Peel: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and peel them.

Cut into Cubes: Chop the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes for even roasting.
Season: Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat evenly.
Roast: Spread the cubes in a single layer and roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crispy, flipping them halfway through.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Chop the Aromatics: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic.
Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of 1 lime into the bowl.
Add Chili: Finely chop the 1/2 chili and add it to the mixture.

Mix with Olive Oil: Drizzle in 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, stirring to combine. Season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocado and Vegetables

Cut the Avocados: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Cut them into cubes.
Prepare Tomatoes: Halve the 3 cherry tomatoes and set aside.

Prepare Kidney Beans: Drain and rinse the 130g kidney beans under cold water to remove excess salt and preservatives.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

Mix Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, cubed avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and kidney beans.
Add Dressing: Pour the lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to mash the avocados.

Garnish: Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the salad. Add chili flakes if you prefer more heat.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the Salad: Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter.
Enjoy: This salad can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Tips

Roasting Sweet Potatoes: Ensure that the sweet potato cubes are roughly the same size for even cooking. The caramelization adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Choosing Avocados: Use ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed for the best texture.
Customization: Feel free to add other ingredients such as corn, black beans, or diced red onion for extra flavor and texture.

Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings; a tahini dressing or a yogurt dressing could also pair well with this salad.

Storage

Refrigeration: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocados may brown slightly, but they will still taste great.
Keep Ingredients Separate: If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 36g

Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 10g

Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and dressing ahead of time. Just combine everything shortly before serving to keep the avocados fresh.

2. Can I use other beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute kidney beans with black beans, chickpeas, or any other bean you enjoy.

3. Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are plant-based, making it a great option for vegan diets.

4. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or quinoa for a more filling meal.

5. How can I adjust the spiciness?

Adjust the amount of chili used or omit it altogether for a milder salad. You can also add more chili flakes if you enjoy heat.

Conclusion

This Spicy Sweet Potato and Avocado Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in a delicious and vibrant dish. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, creamy avocados, and zesty lime dressing creates a satisfying meal that is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or a side, this salad is sure to be a hit at any table. Try it today, and experience the delightful blend of textures and tastes that this recipe has to offer!