Packed with vibrant Mediterranean ingredients like chickpeas, feta, and fresh herbs, this easy recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Roasted sweet potatoes meet a deliciously seasoned filling for a satisfying, protein-rich dish. Try this quick and wholesome meal today!
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45-55 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Mediterranean Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Extra feta cheese
- Fresh parsley sprigs
- A drizzle of olive oil
- A squeeze of lemon
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil (optional)
- Large skillet
- A spoon or fork for scooping
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pictures:
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry.
2. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking.
3. Rub the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the seasoned sweet potatoes on a baking sheet (you can line it with foil for easier cleanup if desired).
Step 2: Bake the Sweet Potatoes
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft when pressed and a knife inserted into the center meets little resistance.
Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Filling
- While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the bell pepper is slightly tender.
3. Stir in the chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and cooked chickpeas. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the saltiness of the olives and feta.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly so you can handle them.
2. Slice each sweet potato lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently fluff the inside flesh with a fork.
3. Spoon the Mediterranean filling generously into the opened sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Mediterranean stuffed sweet potatoes immediately. You can garnish with extra crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley sprigs, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
Pro Tips
✔ Faster cook time? Microwave potatoes for 8-10 minutes before roasting to crisp the skin.
✔ Extra protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
✔ Meal prep: Roast potatoes and prep toppings ahead; assemble when ready to eat.
Serving Ideas
- With greens: Serve over a bed of arugula or spinach.
- As a side: Pair with grilled fish or lamb.
- Brunch twist: Top with a fried egg.
Nutrition (Per Stuffed Potato)
Calories: ~300 | Protein: 8g | Carbs: 45g | Fiber: 10g | Fat: 12g
Variations
- Vegan: Skip feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Spicy: Add harissa or chili flakes to the dressing.
- Herbaceous: Mix in fresh mint or dill.
Enjoy your flavorful and healthy Mediterranean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes!