How to Create Smoky Paprika Roasted Sweet Potato Medallions: A Simple Guide
Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. When roasted to perfection, they transform into a tender, flavorful dish that’s hard to resist. Adding smoky paprika gives them a subtle yet exciting kick, making them perfect as a side dish, snack, or even a stand-alone meal. If you’re looking for a simple and tasty way to enjoy sweet potatoes, follow this guide to create smoky paprika roasted sweet potato medallions.
What Are Sweet Potato Medallions?
Medallions are simply slices of sweet potatoes cut into round shapes. They look neat, cook evenly, and are easy to handle. When tossed with smoky paprika and roasted, they turn into golden bites of heaven—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
This recipe is straightforward, uses minimal ingredients, and requires no fancy tools. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds that smoky flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional but enhances the flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
That’s it! These pantry staples make this recipe easy to whip up anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting at a high temperature ensures your sweet potato medallions turn golden and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent the slices from sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Wash, Peel, and Slice
Rinse the sweet potatoes under cold water to remove dirt. Peel them using a vegetable peeler unless you prefer to keep the skin on (it adds extra texture and nutrients).
Next, slice the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes
Place the sweet potato slices into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the slices. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Using clean hands or a spoon, gently toss the slices until they’re well coated with the seasoning mixture. The smoked paprika will provide a warm, earthy flavor, while the garlic powder adds depth. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
TIP: If you like a touch of heat, feel free to sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder along with the smoky paprika.
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Carefully arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping the slices, as they won’t crisp up properly if stacked.
5. Roast to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Use a spatula to turn them over gently around the 10-minute mark so both sides cook evenly.
Keep an eye on the medallions during the last few minutes to prevent burning. Roasting times may vary depending on the thickness of your slices and your oven’s performance.
You’ll know the sweet potato medallions are ready when they turn golden brown and slightly puffed, and you can easily pierce them with a fork.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sweet potato medallions from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer them onto a serving platter and enjoy while warm.
These smoky paprika roasted sweet potato medallions are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or a yogurt-based dip for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
Here are a few handy tips to make this recipe even better:
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes will roast evenly and have a natural sweetness that balances the smoky paprika.
- Customize Your Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like cumin, cinnamon, or Italian seasoning for variety. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after roasting for an herbal twist.
- Make Ahead Option: If you’re short on time, slice and season the sweet potatoes in advance, then store them in the fridge. Roast them when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoky paprika roasted sweet potato medallions are:
– Easy to prepare: The simple steps make them beginner-friendly.
– Healthy: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
– Versatile: You can serve them as a side dish, party snack, or even a meal.
– Delicious: The smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
Final Thoughts
Roasting sweet potato medallions with smoky paprika is a foolproof way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, simple, and loaded with flavor.
So, grab those sweet potatoes, fire up your oven, and add a little smoky magic to your meal. One bite, and you’ll see why this dish is a favorite among food lovers everywhere!
