Name: Vanilla Roasted Sweet Potato & Apple Spirals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 1/3 vanilla bean; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and halved; 1 large Red Delicious apple, unpeeled; 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 pinch ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Transform ordinary sweet potatoes and apples into a vibrant, flavorful side dish with this recipe. The infusion of vanilla elevates the natural sweetness, while roasting brings out a delightful caramelized texture. Perfect for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight meal.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spray the parchment paper lightly with cooking spray. (5 minutes)

02

Step

With a sharp knife, carefully split the vanilla bean lengthwise. Gently scrape out the seeds from each half of the pod. (2 minutes)

03

Step

In a small saucepan, combine the vanilla bean pod, the scraped seeds, and olive oil. Warm over very low heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This infuses the oil beautifully. (10 minutes)

04

Step

Using a spiralizer, transform the sweet potato and apple into elegant noodles. Place the noodles in a large bowl. (10 minutes)

05

Step

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and ginger. Drizzle this aromatic spice blend over the sweet potato and apple noodles. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated evenly. (5 minutes)

06

Step

Spread the spiralized mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding for optimal roasting. (3 minutes)

07

Step

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, then gently flip the noodles with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F (218 degrees C) and continue roasting until the ends of the sweet potato begin to brown and caramelize, about 5 to 10 minutes more. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. (20 minutes)

For a richer flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste instead of a whole bean.
Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Honeycrisp or Gala apples would also work well.
A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts after roasting adds a delightful crunch.
If you don't have a spiralizer, you can cut the sweet potato and apple into thin matchsticks.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.