Unexpected Ways to Incorporate Sweetpotatoes into Your Summer Diet
As you start pulling out the sandals and swimsuits for summer, you may be looking for new and unexpected ways to spruce up your diet. Whether you want to incorporate healthier choices into your eating regime or are seeking a delicious dish to pack for a picnic, North Carolina sweetpotatoes are the perfect versatile ingredient to incorporate into any summer meal.
Read on for unique and healthy recipes that are must-tries this summer:
Goodness on the Go
Good things come in small packages, and North Carolina sweetpotatoes are no exception! Great for summer events like poolside barbecues or for light eats on the go, single-bite snacks can still pack a big punch to satisfy whatever flavors you’re craving.
These Sweetpotato BLT Bites are anything but an ordinary appetizer. Made with sliced sweetpotatoes, bacon, chopped romaine, and grape tomatoes, this recipe is a healthy take on the classic sandwich, adding a bit of sweetness and heaps of nutritional value.
For an elevated but simple summer nosh, opt for our Sweetpotato Goat Cheese Bites. Top baked sweetpotato slices with goat cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped candied pecans for a quick and easy snack or side.
Wow friends and family with our bright and flavorful Sweetpotato Mousse Bites. Add roasted sweetpotatoes, avocado mayo, orange juice, and lemon juice to a food processor to make the mousse. Top sweetpotato rounds with the mousse and garnish with watermelon radish for a beautiful and refreshing summertime bite.
The Perfect Blend
Staying hydrated is key while enjoying time in the summer sun, and smoothies are a great way to do that and get in your fruits and veggies while cooling off. Sweetpotatoes may not typically come to mind for a refreshing summer smoothie, but they can easily be incorporated for some added nutrients like fiber and vitamin A.
Switch up your typical smoothie routine with our Berry Sweetpotato Smoothie, chock-full of beneficial ingredients like mixed berries, spinach, coconut water, and sweetpotatoes that are sure to help you beat the heat. Ideal for a post-workout or midday snack, this Post-Run Antioxidant Smoothie recipe developed by Sarah Schlichter, MPH, RDN, provides a boost of energy thanks to complex carbohydrates and protein from mashed sweetpotato, Greek yogurt, and beets.
If you’re looking for something even sweeter, quench your thirst with a refreshing Sweetpotato Dream Slush, a tropical blend of oranges and vanilla reminiscent of creamsicle ice cream but made healthier with an assist from sweetpotatoes.
Internationally Inspired
You don’t need to travel this summer to experience new and diverse cuisine. Using a versatile ingredient like sweetpotatoes allows you to get adventurous with your meals and switch up your usual routine.
These Sweetpotato Summer Rolls are a delicious blend of sweet and savory and a fun vegetarian option to try in place of your typical wrap or sandwich. Roll strips of sweetpotato, celery, and red pepper in rice paper sheets and drizzle with an easy-to-make peanut butter sauce.
Swap your usual summer sides for this Creamy Peanut & Lime Sweetpotato Slaw. Made with shredded sweetpotatoes, peanut butter, lime zest, cilantro, and a few other simple ingredients, this Asian-inspired slaw is low-cost, low-calorie, and easy to pull together.
Developed by a registered dietitian, this Sweetpotato & Cauliflower Tabbouleh is reminiscent of its international roots while incorporating healthy vegetables like sweetpotatoes, cauliflower, and green onions. Topped with a lemon and olive oil dressing, this dish offers a wonderful variety of fresh summer flavors.
Sweet Libations
Kick your summer happy hour up a notch with a sweetpotato cocktail. Mix up a one-of-a-kind libation that’s sure to become your go-to drink ingredient using the sweet spud. And, thanks to its numerous health benefits, you can enjoy one of these concoctions while still getting in some additional nutrition.
For a bit of fiery flavor, try The Batata, a spicy blend of reposado tequila, mezcal, and jalapeño. Make your own sweetpotato simple syrup using brown sugar and pureed sweetpotato and add spices like chili flake and cayenne pepper for some extra heat. Or, enjoy the Otono for a cocktail that looks as good as it tastes. Mix sweetpotato simple syrup with pisco, Peychaud bitters, and pink lady apple cider for a balanced flavor and a beautiful pink hue.
Farmer’s Market Fun
If you’re looking for a way to incorporate sweetpotatoes into your diet while taking advantage of the warm weather, visit your local farmer’s market for the perfect weekend activity! Pick up North Carolina sweetpotatoes, other fresh veggies, and perhaps even a bouquet of flowers to brighten up your summer table. While you’re there, be sure to take a moment to thank a local farmer and show your support for area growers.
Go on a flavor journey and switch up your menu this summer with these unique and nutritious sweetpotato options. Check out even more recipe ideas here, and be sure to tag @ncsweetpotatoes when sharing your sweet creations on social media.