Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet
Highlighted under: Natural Kitchen
I absolutely love making this Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet at least once a week. It’s a colorful, nutritious dish that brings such warmth and flavor to my table. With tender roasted sweet potatoes, fresh spinach, and a hint of garlic, this meal perfectly balances health and taste. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare, yet it always impresses when served. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend brunch, this skillet dish never fails to satisfy my cravings for something hearty and wholesome.
When I first experimented with this dish, I was amazed at how the roasted sweet potatoes complemented the spinach so beautifully. The sweetness from the potatoes paired with the earthy flavor of spinach creates an irresistible combination. Over the years, I've tweaked the seasoning, and I find that adding a sprinkle of nutmeg really elevates the dish!
One of my favorite tips for this skillet is to use a mix of fresh and dried herbs. Fresh thyme adds a bright note, while dried oregano gives a deep flavor that's perfect for the roasted vegetables. It’s amazing how such simple ingredients can come together to create something so satisfying!
You Will Love This Recipe Because
- Colorful and vibrant presentation that’s pleasing to the eyes
- Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any weeknight meal
Perfecting the Sweet Potatoes
When roasting sweet potatoes, achieving the perfect texture is essential for this dish. Aim for uniform cubes of about 1-inch to ensure even cooking. The high heat of 400°F (200°C) caramelizes their natural sugars beautifully. To check for doneness, look for a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. If your sweet potatoes are browning too quickly, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the roasting time.
For an added flavor dimension, try tossing the sweet potatoes with a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika along with the herbs. This small addition can elevate the dish with a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes. Remember to keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning and maintain that beautiful golden color.
Sautéing Spinach Like a Pro
Sautéing spinach might seem straightforward, but there are techniques that can elevate its flavor and texture. Start with a large skillet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. As the garlic releases its aroma—usually within the first minute—you'll want to keep the heat around medium to medium-high, ensuring the spinach wilts while still retaining a vibrant green color. Overcooking can result in a dull and mushy texture, so stir constantly for optimal results.
If you're concerned about excess moisture, consider drying the spinach further after washing. This allows the spinach to absorb the garlic flavor without becoming watery. I often use a salad spinner or pat the leaves dry with kitchen towels. If you want to add more flavor, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes just before serving can brighten this part of the dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create your delicious Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet.
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
Sauté the Spinach
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, around 3-4 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, add them to the skillet with the spinach. Gently mix everything together and cook for an additional minute. If desired, sprinkle with feta cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious skillet!
This skillet is best enjoyed warm, and leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. You can customize this skillet by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors tend to meld beautifully, becoming even more complex over time. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to maintain the texture—this prevents it from becoming soggy compared to microwaving, which can often lead to unwanted moisture.
If you'd like to freeze the dish, I suggest Portioning it into individual servings and using freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. If you find that the spinach has released some moisture, a quick toss in a hot skillet can help revitalize its freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or a side. For a heartier meal, consider adding a protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas to the dish. Topping with a poached egg can also create a wonderful brunch option that melds all the flavors together, with the yolk adding a delicious richness.
If you're aiming for a gluten-free dish, it's already compliant, but serving it alongside quinoa or millet can introduce more textures and flavors. For a creamy element without dairy, drizzle some tahini mixed with lemon juice over the top to enhance its taste profile—this simple addition can transform the dish into something extraordinary.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
→ Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu make great additions for more protein.
→ What can I serve with this skillet meal?
It pairs well with quinoa, rice, or even as a filling for whole wheat tortillas.
Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet
I absolutely love making this Roasted Sweet Potato Spinach Skillet at least once a week. It’s a colorful, nutritious dish that brings such warmth and flavor to my table. With tender roasted sweet potatoes, fresh spinach, and a hint of garlic, this meal perfectly balances health and taste. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare, yet it always impresses when served. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend brunch, this skillet dish never fails to satisfy my cravings for something hearty and wholesome.
Created by: Leonie Fairchild
Recipe Type: Natural Kitchen
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, around 3-4 minutes.
Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, add them to the skillet with the spinach. Gently mix everything together and cook for an additional minute. If desired, sprinkle with feta cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious skillet!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. You can customize this skillet by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g