Sweet Potato Bruschettas

Sweet potato bruschettas are a twist on the classic Italian appetizer using sweet potatoes instead of bread. They’re an excellent option for a starter or a healthy and colorful snack. Here’s how to prepare them.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garlic powder or 1 clove of fresh garlic (optional)
• Fresh or dried rosemary (optional)
• Toppings of choice: cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, prosciutto, arugula, goat cheese, avocado cream, etc.

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Wash the sweet potatoes well and cut them into slices about 1/2 a centimeter thick.
3. Arrange the sweet potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder (if used), and rosemary to taste.
5. Bake the sweet potatoes for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and tender.
6. In the meantime, prepare your favorite toppings and keep them ready.
7. Once the potatoes are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes.
8. Top each slice with the chosen toppings.
9. Serve the sweet potato bruschettas warm or at room temperature.

You can experiment with the toppings: you could, for example, season with a mix of diced cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, salt and a drizzle of oil, for a very Italian touch. For a richer option, try using prosciutto and cheese, or for a vegetarian version, a nice avocado cream with a dash of lemon and pepper.

Fun Fact

Sweet potatoes are not traditionally used in Italian cuisine, but they are making their way into many modern recipes for their natural sweetness and nutritional benefits. This version of bruschetta is an example of how cuisines can evolve by incorporating non-traditional ingredients.