Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. While the sweet potatoes roast, prepare the candied walnuts. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts with honey and a pinch of salt for about 3–4 minutes, stirring until they become glossy. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese with fresh parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and spreadable.
6. Once the sweet potato coins are roasted, top each one with a small dollop of the herbed goat cheese, a few pomegranate arils, and a sprinkle of candied walnuts.
7. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme before serving; these can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Best ways to enjoy it

These sweet potato coins can stand on their own as a stunning appetizer or be served alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal. Consider pairing them with a light salad to add freshness or a rich balsamic glaze for extra depth. Arranging them on a colorful platter adds to their appeal, especially when you scatter extra pomegranate arils for that vibrant touch.

How to store

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness. For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted sweet potato coins (without toppings) for up to three months. Just remember to arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.

Pro chef tips

• To boost the flavor profile, try adding a hint of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the olive oil, which will give your sweet potatoes a slight kick.
• For even more texture, consider adding some crumbled bacon or crispy chickpeas on top.
• If you’re short on time, you can roast sweet potato slices ahead of time and simply reheat before adding the toppings.

Creative twists

Want to switch it up? You can replace the goat cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative for a plant-based version, or use different herbs like rosemary or mint to experiment with flavors. You could also try replacing the pomegranate arils with diced apples or pears for a unique autumn spin.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?
The total prep time is around 15–20 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 20–25 minutes.

Can I substitute sweet potatoes with other vegetables?
Absolutely! Butternut squash or regular potatoes would work nicely, though adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How long can I keep leftovers?
Stored properly, roasted sweet potato coins can be kept refrigerated for about three days, or you can freeze them for up to three months.

Enjoy these Sweet Potato Coins with Herbed Goat Cheese, Pomegranate & Candied Walnuts as a treat that not only satisfies your taste buds but also impresses your guests. Happy cooking!