There are times when we just have to shake it up a bit! We all have our go-to rotations for meal planning, but it is interesting how a different condiment or sauce can really take a side to the next level (thank you Yotam Ottelenghi). I also appreciate a sauce that can go with many different things, from vegetables, to chicken, lamb or fish. This sauce has it all. Even the color contrast of this dish is striking. As I mentioned last week, using the addition of a flavored olive oil is really wonderful, in this case Persian Lime. It pairs nicely with the fresh lime juice. Skip it if you don’t have it. If you have people in your family that don’t like too much heat, the Greek yogurt that accompanies this side will easily tamp it down.
Sweet potatoes are a terrific vegetable for people watching their weight. They are high in vitamin A, they support digestive and heart health, and they are rich in dietary fiber, keeping you full longer. They also stabilize your blood-sugar, fuel your brain, and since they are loaded with beta-carotene they are terrific for your eyes. So what’s not to like?
SWEET POTATOES WITH YOGURT & CILANTRO-CHILI SAUCE
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil divided (Persian Lime if available)
1/2 tablespoon local honey
Juice of 2 limes, divided
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 1/4 pounds sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch wedges
1/2 bunch cilantro
2 green chilies, seeded and chopped (I use jalapenos)
2 garlic cloves, pressed or grated
1/4 cup sliced blanched almonds
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 cup Greek yogurt
INSTRUCTIONS:
Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, honey, juice from 1 lime, salt and pepper to taste, and potato wedges. Toss to coat. Spread in a even layer on baking sheet, bake until tender and lightly browned in spots, about 45-55- minutes. Sprinkle with additional salt to taste.
Meanwhile, in a food processor, pulse to combine 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, the cilantro, chilies, garlic, almonds, juice from remaining lime, vinegar and a large pinch of salt, until it forms a chunky puree. Taste and add more salt if needed.
Arrange sweet potatoes on a platter; spoon sauce in dollops over the potatoes, dollop with yogurt, drizzle with some olive oil, and serve with additional sauce and yogurt on the side.
Serve 4-6
“Our very survival depends on us staying awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant, and to face the challenge of change.” –Martin Luther King
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