Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie: A Delicious and Healthy Appetizer

Looking for an appetizer that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy, indulgent flavor of brie? Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie are a delightful option that offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

But did you know that sweet potatoes are not only a tasty ingredient but also packed with nutrients like vitamin A, potassium, and fiber? Paired with brie, which provides healthy fats and protein, this dish is not only flavorful but also surprisingly nutritious.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or preparing a quick snack, Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie are a perfect choice for any occasion. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into this easy and healthy recipe.

Ingredients List

Here’s a detailed list of all the ingredients you’ll need to prepare Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, along with substitution options to cater to different dietary needs:

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitutes
Sweet potatoes	2 medium	Butternut squash or pumpkin for a similar texture
Brie cheese (cut into thin slices)	6 oz	Camembert or goat cheese for a different flavor
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	Avocado oil or coconut oil for a different flavor
Ground cinnamon	½ teaspoon	Ground nutmeg or allspice for a warm, aromatic flavor
Sea salt	¼ teaspoon	Himalayan salt or regular salt
Fresh thyme (optional)	1 tablespoon	Fresh rosemary or sage for a different herbal flavor
Honey (for drizzling)	1 tablespoon	Maple syrup for a richer sweetness
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon	White pepper for a milder flavor

This recipe uses minimal ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes and brie to shine. The cinnamon and thyme add warmth and complexity, making these rounds a perfect appetizer for both casual meals and festive occasions.

Timing

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie come together quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute parties. This recipe is faster than many other roasted vegetable appetizers, with minimal prep time and a short cooking duration.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

This time frame is about 15-20% faster than most roasted vegetable appetizers, ensuring you can enjoy a healthy, delicious snack in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Lay the slices flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Season the Sweet Potatoes

Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil and toss them to coat evenly. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon, sea salt, and black pepper. If you like a bit of extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.

Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through. The rounds should be tender and lightly browned on the edges when done. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Step 4: Add the Brie and Return to the Oven

Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted, remove them from the oven and top each slice with a piece of brie cheese. Return them to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.

Step 5: Drizzle with Honey and Serve

Remove the sweet potato rounds from the oven and drizzle with a touch of honey for sweetness. Garnish with fresh thyme for an aromatic finish. Serve the rounds warm as a delightful appetizer or snack.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Here’s the nutritional breakdown of Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie per serving. This dish offers a great balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, with plenty of added vitamins and minerals.

Nutrient	Amount per serving (3-4 rounds)
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	5 grams
Carbohydrates	30 grams
Fiber	5 grams
Fat	8 grams
Saturated Fat	4 grams
Sodium	180 mg
Calcium	6% of daily value
Iron	4% of daily value
Vitamin A	90% of daily value
Vitamin C	15% of daily value

Health Benefits:

• High in Vitamin A: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, supporting healthy vision and skin.
• Good Source of Fiber: This dish offers a healthy dose of fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Healthy Fats from Brie: Brie cheese provides healthy fats, which are important for brain function and maintaining heart health.
• Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to make Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie even healthier? Here are some modifications that keep the dish flavorful while catering to specific dietary needs:

• Lower Sugar: Skip the honey drizzle or use a small amount of agave nectar to reduce sugar content while maintaining sweetness.
• Vegan: For a dairy-free version, use a vegan cheese alternative like cashew-based cheese or a creamy plant-based brie. Omit the honey drizzle or use maple syrup.
• Low-Carb: To make this dish lower in carbs, replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower slices or zucchini rounds. Both alternatives provide a similar texture with fewer carbs.
• Salt-Free: Use a salt substitute or simply omit the salt for a lower-sodium version of the dish.

These alternatives allow you to customize the dish according to your specific health goals or dietary preferences without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie are versatile and can be served in many creative ways. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dish:

1. With a Simple Salad: Serve the roasted rounds alongside a fresh green salad, such as spinach or arugula, to balance the richness of the brie and sweet potatoes.
2. As Part of a Charcuterie Board: Include these rounds on a charcuterie board with other cheeses, crackers, and fruits like pears or figs for an elegant appetizer spread.
3. Topped with Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or pomegranate seeds on top of the rounds for a burst of flavor and color.
4. As a Main Course: Pair the rounds with quinoa or brown rice and roasted vegetables to create a satisfying and healthy vegetarian meal.

These suggestions will help you serve Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie in ways that suit various occasions and taste preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right every time:

1. Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If the sweet potato rounds are too close together, they will steam instead of roasting, resulting in a soggy texture. Be sure to leave space between the rounds on the baking sheet.
2. Underseasoning: Sweet potatoes need a bit of seasoning to bring out their natural sweetness. Don’t be afraid to add a generous sprinkle of cinnamon, salt, and pepper for a perfect flavor balance.
3. Overbaking the Rounds: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes while they roast. Overbaking can cause them to become too crispy or dried out. Aim for a tender, slightly caramelized texture.

By following these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and create the perfect sweet potato rounds.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers or want to prep in advance, here’s how to store and reheat Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to restore the crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the roasted sweet potato rounds before adding the brie. After baking, let them cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven and add the brie cheese before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Slice and season the sweet potatoes ahead of time, and store them in the fridge for up to a day before roasting. This will save you time when preparing the dish.

Storing these rounds is easy and ensures you can enjoy them even after the gathering is over.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie offer the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors that will leave your guests asking for more. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is both healthy and indulgent.

FAQs

Q: A: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of brie?
A: Yes, you can substitute brie with camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

Q: B: Can I prepare the sweet potato rounds ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can slice and season the sweet potatoes the night before. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them.

Q: C: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes, you can use a plant-based cheese alternative like cashew cheese or a vegan brie. Omit the honey drizzle or replace it with maple syrup.

Q: D: How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from becoming soggy?
A: Make sure the sweet potato slices are spaced out evenly on the baking sheet, so they roast instead of steaming.

Q: E: How long will the leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.

Print