Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

These Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are a delightful addition to any meal. Their crispy edges and savory Parmesan topping make them stand out as a side dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive holiday gatherings, these medallions are simple to prepare yet elegant enough to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal tools, you can whip up these medallions in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs elevates the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Versatile Side Dish: These medallions pair well with various main courses, making them a great choice for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but good for you too.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their beautiful presentation and tasty flavor make them a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring that your medallions cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless, allowing for easy removal of the medallions post-baking.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Topping

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or use thyme/rosemary for variation)

How to Make Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake the Medallions

Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully flip each slice over and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 5: Final Bake

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes. Look for edges that are golden brown and cheese that is melted and crisp.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your medallions with fresh parsley or your favorite herbs before serving. Enjoy this elegant side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are versatile and delicious. You can serve them in many ways to complement your meals or as a delightful appetizer.

As a Side Dish for Meat Dishes

• With Grilled Chicken: The crispy texture and savory flavor of these medallions pair perfectly with the juiciness of grilled chicken.
• Alongside Beef Stew: Serve these medallions next to a hearty beef stew for a comforting meal.

In a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss warm medallions into a fresh salad for added flavor and texture.
• Roasted Vegetable Salad: Combine with other roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious dish.

As an Appetizer

• With Dipping Sauce: Serve with a garlic aioli or spicy mayo for an exciting twist.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Add these medallions to your charcuterie board for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

Making perfect Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions is simple with a few tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary will enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Space the sweet potato rounds apart to ensure they crisp up nicely without steaming each other.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: If your rounds are thicker than 1/4 inch, increase baking time slightly to achieve that golden crisp.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a unique flavor twist.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

These medallions can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This dish adds crunch and nutrition while balancing the sweetness of sweet potatoes.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon and cucumbers provides a light contrast.
3. Creamy Spinach: The richness of creamy spinach pairs well with the savory notes in the medallions.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds elegance and pairs wonderfully with sweet potatoes.
5. Couscous with Vegetables: Fluffy couscous mixed with seasonal veggies creates a delightful texture combination.
6. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add tanginess that complements the dish well.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors while providing volume to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. If your oven isn’t hot enough, the medallions may end up soggy instead of crisp.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Without it, you risk losing flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
• Cutting Uneven Rounds: Ensure sweet potatoes are sliced uniformly for consistent baking. Uneven slices can lead to some medallions being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
• Forgetting to Flip: Flipping the medallions halfway through baking is essential for even browning. Skipping this step can result in one side being much crispier than the other.
• Overloading with Cheese: While cheese adds flavor, too much can make the medallions greasy. Use just enough to enhance without overwhelming.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers for best results.

Reheating Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently. Note that they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions?

Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are thin slices of sweet potato baked with olive oil, spices, and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a delicious side dish.

How do I make these medallions crispy?

To achieve crispy medallions, ensure your oven is preheated and arrange them in a single layer without overlapping on the baking sheet.

Can I use different herbs for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute parsley with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile while keeping the essence of Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions intact.

Are these medallions suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great option for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with your choice of herbs or spices, making them perfect as a side dish for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Give them a try and enjoy their delightful flavors!