Easy Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

If you’re craving something vibrant, nourishing, and a little unexpected, this Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing is exactly what you need. Combining sweet, earthy roasted sweet potatoes with fresh greens, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and a bright lemon dijon dressing (natural), this salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you want a hearty side or a satisfying main, this recipe is simple, refreshing, and guaranteed to impress your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and flavorful: The lemon dijon dressing (natural) adds a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.
• Nutritious powerhouse: Loaded with vitamins from sweet potatoes and fresh greens, this salad is both wholesome and energizing.
• Perfect texture combo: You get the crunch of smoked turkey bacon against the soft roasted sweet potatoes, creating a satisfying mouthfeel.
• Easy to prepare: It takes minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or quick meal prep.
• Versatile dish: Enjoy it warm or chilled, as a side or main, adapting to your mood and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing plays a vital role in building layers of deliciousness, from the caramelized sweetness of the potatoes to the tangy lemon dijon dressing (natural) that ties everything together.

• Sweet potatoes: Choose firm, medium-sized potatoes for roasting the heart of the salad’s earthy sweetness.
• Fresh mixed greens: Baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix provide a fresh, peppery base with vibrant color.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with the tender potatoes.
• Lemon dijon dressing (natural): A simple mixture of fresh lemon juice, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, and seasonings to brighten every bite.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a mild bite and a splash of purple, enhancing both look and flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley or cilantro for a pop of herbal freshness and color.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the salad components perfectly.
• Olive oil: Used for roasting sweet potatoes, bringing out their natural sugars and adding richness.

Variations for Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

This salad is your canvas for creativity, and you can easily tailor it to your preferences or pantry supplies while keeping the freshness and texture alive.

• Make it vegan: Swap smoked turkey bacon for crispy smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a plant-based crunch.
• Nutty addition: Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans to add extra texture and earthy flavor.
• Sweet and savory: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for bursts of sweetness and a jewel-like sparkle.
• Grain boost: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro to turn this salad into a protein-packed, filling meal.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle some chili flakes or smoked paprika onto the sweet potatoes before roasting for a smoky heat.

How to Make Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized chunks, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through for even roasting.

Step 2: Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon

While the potatoes roast, cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet on medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces. The smoky flavor and crunch from the bacon elevate every bite of this salad.

Step 3: Mix the Lemon Dijon Dressing (natural)

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify a creamy, zesty dressing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, fresh greens, sliced red onion, smoked turkey bacon, and chopped herbs. Drizzle over the lemon dijon dressing (natural) and gently toss to coat everything evenly without bruising the greens.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the salad while the roasted sweet potatoes are still lightly warm to enjoy the blend of textures and flavors at their very best. Add an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs or cracked pepper if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When roasting sweet potatoes, give them enough space to brown properly instead of steaming.
• Use fresh lemon juice: It makes all the difference in balancing the dressing’s acidity and brightness.
• Prepare components ahead: Roast sweet potatoes and cook bacon in advance to speed up assembly on a busy day.
• Toss gently: To keep greens crisp and vibrant, mix the salad delicately after adding the dressing.
• Customize texture: Add crunchy nuts or seeds if you love extra bite and complexity.

How to Serve Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh parsley or cilantro not only adds color but also a refreshing herbal note that lifts the entire salad’s flavor profile. For a finishing touch, sprinkle toasted seeds or nuts for crunch.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pan-seared fish for a complete meal. It also complements grain bowls or flatbreads if you want a light, plant-forward spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch or layered in glass bowls to showcase the bright colors. For gatherings, arrange the salad on a large platter with whole roasted sweet potato wedges and extra dressing on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately if possible to preserve the crispness of the greens.

Freezing

Roasted sweet potatoes freeze well, so you can prepare them in batches. However, it’s best to freeze only the roasted potatoes, not the assembled salad, to maintain freshness.

Reheating

Warm roasted sweet potatoes gently in a microwave or oven before mixing back into fresh greens and adding the dressing. Avoid reheating the full salad to keep the textures intact.

FAQs

Can I use regular bacon instead of smoked turkey bacon?

Yes, regular bacon works well in this salad, lending a richer flavor. Just make sure to cook it until crispy before adding.

Is the dressing suitable for vegans?

The dressing includes honey, so to make it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar while keeping the same balance of flavors.

Can I prepare this salad without a natural gelling agent?

This recipe does not require any natural gelling agent, so you can enjoy it fresh without any thickening additions.

How do I store leftover dressing?

Store any leftover lemon dijon dressing (natural) in a clean jar or bottle in the fridge for up to a week, shaking well before each use.

What other greens work well in this salad?

Try kale, romaine, or watercress if you want a different flavor or texture; just adjust the quantity and dressing to your liking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the combination of tender roasted sweet potatoes and the zingy lemon dijon dressing (natural) that makes this salad a standout dish. Whether you’re a salad aficionado or just looking to add more exciting, fresh flavors to your meals, the Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing is a winner. Give it a try you’ll be sharing this recipe with friends before you know it!

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