Today is my first post for….drumroll…ingredient of the week! I am excited to announce my newest idea to inspire recipe creativity and an understanding for the various health benefits associated with the foods we eat. Each week, I will introduce the ingredient, explain its health benefits, and give you at least one recipe. Ready!? Our first ingredient of the week is the sweet potato!

Health Benefits:

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune support.
They are anti-inflammatory and easy to digest
They are high in fiber (keeps you full, doesn’t spike blood sugar, helps alleviate constipation)
They help regulate blood pressure with their high levels of potassium
Their naturally sweet flavor reduces sugar cravings

Recipe inspiration: Sweet Potato “Toast” with Avocado

I love roasted sweet potatoes on their own, cut into ¼ cubes or “fries,” but this recipe has a little more flare and flavor! These sweet potato “toasts” are perfect for breakfast or a snack. The starchy, fiber-rich sweet potato topped with a heaping amount of creamy avocado will keep you full and satisfied. If you’re feeling extra ambitious (or hungry), top your “toast” with a fried egg.

Ingredients: (Serves 4)

1 large sweet potato
2 ripe avocados
1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes to taste

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Slice the ends off the sweet potato and then slice the sweet potato lengthwise into ¼ inch slices
Coat with olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and pepper
Place on baking sheet and place in the oven
After 12 minutes, flip the “toasts”
Roast for 12 more minutes or until browned and the flesh is soft when touched with a fork
While “toasts” cool, mash the avocado in a small bowl
Spoon the avocado on top of the toasts
Drizzle the tops with sea salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes