A Very Simple Sweet Potato or Yam

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this "Very Simple Sweet Potato or Yam" recipe—an effortless, healthy, and delicious side dish or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With just five minutes of prep time and a handful of pantry staples like olive oil, salt, and pepper, this recipe accentuates the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes or yams while delivering a crisp, roasted exterior and tender, melt-in-your-mouth flesh. Ideal as a blank canvas for your favorite toppings—think butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey—it’s a versatile, gluten-free, and nutrient-packed dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re meal prepping or craving a cozy baked treat, this recipe offers wholesome perfection every time.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet potato or yam
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0 optional toppings (butter, cinnamon, or honey)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2

Wash and scrub the sweet potato or yam thoroughly to remove any dirt, then pat it dry with a kitchen towel.

Step 3

Using a fork, pierce the sweet potato or yam several times all over. This allows steam to escape during cooking.

Step 4

Lightly coat the sweet potato or yam with olive oil and rub it evenly over the skin for a crispier texture.

Step 5

Sprinkle the sweet potato or yam with salt and ground black pepper.

Step 6

Place the sweet potato or yam on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on the oven rack.

Step 7

Bake for 40–50 minutes, depending on the size of the sweet potato or yam. It is done when the skin is slightly wrinkled and the flesh is soft when pierced with a knife or fork.

Step 8

Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 9

Slice open the sweet potato or yam lengthwise and fluff the flesh with a fork. Add optional toppings, if desired, such as butter, cinnamon, or honey.

Step 10

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	210.1 grams (210.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	385

Total Fat 25.70g	33%
Saturated Fat 9.50g	48%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 31mg	10%
Sodium 771mg	34%
Total Carbohydrate 36.60g	13%
Dietary Fiber 5.50g	20%
Total Sugars 7.50g
Protein 2.90g	6%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 60mg	5%
Iron 1mg	8%
Potassium 617mg	13%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 59.4%

Protein: 3.0%

Carbs: 37.6%