Last week, we shared some of the 2017 food trends.

One of these was “Plant-based everything.”  This week, we want to share another example of this.

 

What if we told you that you can turn sweet potatoes into “toast?”

Would you think we had lost our minds?!

 

Well, maybe we have, but we have tried this and it’s fantastic!  We know…you may be thinking “a sweet potato cannot replace my bread,” but this is one delicious alternative, especially if you are still working on making the transition to whole-grain bread!

 

Why sweet potatoes?

 

Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients!

 

• They are fat-free, low in sodium and contain a ton of beneficial vitamins and nutrients.
• Sweet potatoes are a Vitamin A powerhouse, providing 400% of your daily requirement!
• One of the best sources of beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant and helps reduce the risk of disease including certain forms of cancer.  To get the full benefit of the beta-carotene, it is best to add a little fat to your sweet potato meal…even just 1 Tbsp of extra virgin olive oil will help your body absorb the antioxidants.
• They also contain fiber, which helps control hunger, lowers blood cholesterol levels and keeps things regular (if you know what we mean!).  Sweet potatoes actually have slightly more fiber than white potatoes.

 

For more on sweet potatoes, check out our superfood coaching tip!

 

So how do you turn this veggie into “toast?”

 

1. Wash and pat your sweet potato dry.  There is no need to peel!  But, if you do decide to peel them, save those peels and roast them…they make delicious crunchy Parmesan Potato Skin Fries.
2. Thinly slice off one side of the sweet potato to get a flat cutting surface.  Then, slice the potato lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices.  If you cut them too thick, they will take too long to cook. (If you do cut them too thick, don’t panic!  Simply poke the slices with a fork and microwave them for 20-30 seconds before putting them in the toaster).
3. Turn the toaster to the highest setting.
4. Spray (with an olive oil sprayer) or brush with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil).
5. Cooking time may vary depending on your toaster.  Toast for 2-3 cycles (some toasters may take 4 to 6 cycles).  Cook until brown in spots and tender.  If you are wanting to cook several slices for a crowd, it may be easier to roast the sweet potato slices in the oven.  Roast them at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
6. Now, the fun part…top with whatever toppings your heart desires!  The sweet potato adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the taste of the toppings.  Get creative — both sweet and savory toppings work great!

 

 

Pear and Banana Sweet Potato Toast – almond butter, banana slices, pear slices and chopped walnuts

 

Savory Smoked Salmon Sweet Potato Toast – avocado slices (or the tarter sauce from the Simple Seasoned Catfish Sandwich), smoked salmon, capers, and arugula

 

The possibilities are endless!

 

More topping ideas:

• Almond butter, pitted sliced dates, and drizzled with coconut butter
• Avocado slices and a poached egg
• Peanut butter, strawberry slices, blueberries and sliced almonds
• Pesto and hard-boiled egg slices
• Hummus and sliced tomatoes

 

 

Try saving some extra slices, ready to grab out of the refrigerator to toast and top for a quick and easy breakfast.  Kids can even try this easy breakfast or snack!

 

Have you already experienced “sweet potato toast”?  What is your favorite flavor combination?  

Please share with us!