Sweet Potato Feta Bites with Rosemary Balsamic Glaze

Introduction

Sweet Potato Feta Bites with Rosemary Balsamic Glaze are a delightful, flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining or adding a gourmet touch to your everyday meal. These bites combine the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory richness of feta cheese, all brought together by a robust rosemary-infused balsamic reduction. The texture is beautifully balanced, with crispy edges and a creamy center that will leave your guests craving more. With simple ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes luxurious yet remains surprisingly easy to make.

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Ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Bites:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Feta Topping:

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

For the Rosemary Balsamic Glaze:

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary

Garnishes:

• Fresh rosemary sprigs, finely chopped
• Additional crumbled feta
• Cracked black pepper

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Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Arrange the sweet potato rounds on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Toss to coat evenly, then spread out in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and the centers are tender.

Step 2: Make the Feta Topping

• While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the feta mixture. In a medium-sized bowl, combine crumbled feta, chopped parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and red pepper flakes if using.
• Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more honey for sweetness or lemon juice for tanginess.

Step 3: Prepare the Rosemary Balsamic Glaze

• In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and the rosemary sprig. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Allow the mixture to simmer for 8-10 minutes or until it has thickened and reduced by half. The glaze should be syrupy and coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and discard the rosemary sprig.
• Set aside to cool slightly; the glaze will thicken further as it cools.

Step 4: Assemble the Sweet Potato Bites

• Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes.
• Top each round with a generous spoonful of the feta mixture. Lightly press down to adhere.

Step 5: Drizzle with the Glaze and Garnish

• Use a spoon to drizzle the rosemary balsamic glaze over each sweet potato bite. Be careful not to add too much, as the glaze is very flavorful.
• Garnish with finely chopped fresh rosemary, additional crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper if desired.

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Cooking Note:

• Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes during roasting. Depending on your oven and the thickness of your slices, they might need a little more or less time to achieve a perfect golden edge.
• Consistency of Glaze: If the balsamic glaze becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of water and warm it slightly to loosen it up.

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Serving Suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Serve on a beautiful platter with cocktail sticks for an elegant appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• With a Salad: Pair with a simple arugula salad for a light lunch or dinner.
• Holiday Spread: Add these to your holiday feast; they complement roasted meats and traditional sides beautifully.

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Tips:

1. Pre-Cut Sweet Potatoes: To save time, you can slice the sweet potatoes in advance and store them in cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
2. Make the Glaze Ahead: The balsamic glaze can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Warm it gently before use.
3. Experiment with Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
4. Herb Variations: Instead of rosemary, thyme or sage work well and add a different aromatic profile to the dish.

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Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg

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Conclusion

Sweet Potato Feta Bites with Rosemary Balsamic Glaze offer a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that are sure to impress. They’re perfect for festive occasions, family dinners, or as a fancy snack that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With their vibrant colors and bold tastes, these bites will be a memorable addition to any table.

 

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