Baked Sweet Potatoes

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (or 1.5 cups cooked black beans)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or cilantro, if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
  • Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, or vegan sour cream

Instructions:

1. Bake the Sweet Potatoes:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pierce each one several times with a fork.
  • Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  • Bake in the oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

  • While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the stuffing mixture. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the black beans, corn, diced tomato, red onion, and chopped parsley.
  • Add the olive oil, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and set aside.

3. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes:

  • Once the sweet potatoes are baked and tender, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
  • Slice each sweet potato lengthwise, creating a pocket in the center (but don’t slice all the way through). Gently fluff the inside of the potato with a fork to create space for the filling.
  • Spoon the prepared black bean and corn mixture into each sweet potato, filling the pockets generously.

4. Serve:

  • Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes with lime wedges on the side for a fresh citrusy kick.
  • Optional: Top with sliced avocado, salsa, or a dollop of vegan sour cream for added flavor.

Tips:

  • Make it spicy: Add some chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Add more veggies: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make the filling even heartier.
  • Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffing and bake the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Just stuff the potatoes before serving and heat them through in the oven for a few minutes.

These Baked Sweet Potatoes stuffed with black beans, corn, tomato, parsley, and red onion are satisfying and full of vibrant flavors. They make for a great lunch, dinner, or a healthy side dish! Enjoy