Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

A delicious and nutritious recipe perfect for a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner. These stuffed sweet potatoes are packed with protein, fiber, and a burst of flavors from dried cranberries, walnuts, and pepitas.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium/large sweet potatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa (or rice)
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chickpeas (optional)
  • Sauce of choice (e.g., creamy garlic tahini sauce)

Method

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
    • Scrub and wash your sweet potatoes. Pierce each potato with a fork and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. You can also bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes if you prefer.
  2. Prepare the Quinoa Mixture
    • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa (or rice) with dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, pepitas, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. If using, add the chickpeas or white beans for additional protein and fiber.
  3. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes
    • Once the sweet potatoes are cooked and cool enough to handle, slice them open lengthwise. Gently fluff the insides with a fork, then spoon the quinoa mixture into the sweet potatoes.
  4. Add Sauce and Serve
    • Drizzle with your favorite sauce, such as creamy garlic tahini sauce, and serve warm.

How to Freeze

  1. Cool Completely
    • Allow the stuffed sweet potatoes to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
  2. Wrap and Store
    • Wrap each stuffed sweet potato tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.
  3. Freeze
    • Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  4. Reheat
    • To reheat, unwrap the sweet potatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 3 servings total)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Sodium: 200mg

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Side Dishes: Serve with a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad.
  • Sauces: Experiment with different sauces such as balsamic glaze or yogurt-based dressings.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious stuffed sweet potatoes as a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love!