Sweet Potato Slices with Whipped Feta, Caramelized Pears & Toasted Hazelnuts

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to prepare this delectable dish:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the sweet potato slices in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20–25 minutes until they’re tender and light golden brown.
While the sweet potatoes roast, melt butter or coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the pear slices and sprinkle with brown sugar (or maple syrup). Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears are caramelized and soft.
In a blender or bowl, combine the feta cheese, Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), olive oil, and black pepper. Blend or whip until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Toast the chopped hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
Now it’s time to assemble: Arrange the roasted sweet potato slices on a serving platter. Spread or dollop the whipped feta onto each slice, layer generously with caramelized pears, and sprinkle everything with the toasted hazelnuts.
For an extra flourish, garnish your dish with fresh thyme or microgreens and a light drizzle of honey if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

This dish can be enjoyed in various ways! Serve it warm as a stunning appetizer or side dish at a dinner party. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, making it versatile enough for any occasion. For a brunch spread, consider accompanying it with a refreshing salad and perhaps some poached eggs on the side.

How to store & freeze

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this delicious dish), you can store them easily! Place any uneaten sweet potatoes, whipped feta, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. While freezing is possible, it’s best to avoid freezing the whipped feta as it may change texture.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some pro tips to enhance your dish:

Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes evenly for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
When caramelizing the pears, adjust the level of sweetness according to your taste by varying the amount of sugar or maple syrup.
If you’re short on time, feel free to skip the caramelizing step and use fresh pear slices for a crunchy twist.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might enjoy:

Swap hazelnuts for pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Add some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped feta for a warm, comforting touch.
For a vegan version, you can substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or a blended silken tofu mixture.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 25–30 minutes of cooking time.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! Cream cheese or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
The recipe is inherently gluten-free, so you’re all set! Just ensure all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.