3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
2 cups fresh baby spinach or arugula
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup red onion, very thinly sliced
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or pepitas
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for the dressing
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. On a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded so they can crisp up properly. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and have beautiful golden brown edges.
While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the dressing in a small jar or bowl. Combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the mixture vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is emulsified and smooth. Taste and add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed to balance the acidity.
If your pumpkin seeds are raw, place them in a small dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and start to pop slightly. This step adds a much deeper nuttiness to the Roasted Sweet Potato Salad, but be careful not to let them burn.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onions. Once the roasted sweet potatoes have cooled slightly, but are still warm, add them to the bowl. The slight heat from the potatoes will help wilt the spinach just enough to make it tender without turning it soggy.
Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently with tongs or large spoons. Sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds over the top just before serving to maintain their crunch. You can serve this immediately or let it sit for ten minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
