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Home › Recipes › Cold Sweet Potato Salad Recipe with Cranberries and Pecans

Cold Sweet Potato Salad Recipe with Cranberries and Pecans

Appetizers Dinners Recipes Salads & Dressings Side Dishes
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By Janine Waite · Published on Apr 13, 2023
Affiliate Disclosure: This Post May Contain Affiliate Links.

Here’s a Sweet Potato Salad Recipe that will change your mind about salads.

Are you tired of the same old potato salad recipe you bring to every summer gathering? It’s time to switch things up with a surprising twist: sweet potato salad. Yes, you read that right. This underrated root vegetable adds a unique and delicious flavor to a classic dish. Whether you’re a sweet potato lover or skeptic, this recipe will change your mind.

roasted potatoes
Photo: MyPhotography.com

I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make a mouth-watering sweet potato salad, from ingredients to cooking techniques. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unexpected twist.

This cold sweet potato salad is perfect for any summer gathering or potluck. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and unexpected. Plus, it’s a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. Try it and see how it changes your mind about sweet potatoes.

I personally love any sweet potato dish, whether a side dish, salad, or a sheet of roasted veggies. So, creating a whole salad of them is one of my favorite recipes! Also, the add-ons of spicy arugula and crunchy pecans are simply irresistible.

But let’s take a look at some of my favorite recipes!

best chicken dinner recipe
israeli couscous recipe
  • Easy Chicken in Electric Skillet Recipe
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  • Best Tuna Casserole Recipe

Before we dig into this salad, I must mention that my friends are joining me on this blog hop. We are all sharing our favorite spring salad recipes. Their yummy-looking salads are listed at the bottom of this post.

Cold Sweet Potato Salad Recipe

Sweet potato salad is a game-changer. Whether you try the cold, roasted, or easy version, this healthy and easy-to-make recipe is worth adding to your repertoire. The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors will have you craving this dish all year round.

roasted sweet potatoes
Photo: MyPhotography.com

Step-by-Step Instructions

You’ll need a few basic ingredients to make a cold sweet potato salad.

Ingredients:

  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Olive Oil
  • Kosher Salt/Pepper
  • Argula
  • Pecans
  • Sugar
  • Water
  • Dried Cranberries
  • Mayonaise
  • Maple Syrup
  • Lemon
  • Stone Ground Mustards with Seeds

Step 1 – Prep Sweet Potatoes

First, peel and chop your sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Then, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast the sweet potatoes in a 400-degree oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.

Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, let them cool a bit and transfer them to a bowl. Cover and place them in the fridge for about an hour to chill. If you don’t want a cold salad, allow the potatoes to cool down to room temperature.

Step 2 – Carmelize Pecans

While the sweet potatoes are cooking, you can prepare your other ingredients. Caramelize the nuts by placing 1 cup of halved pecans in a large Pyrex glass container. Add 1/8 cup of water and six tablespoons of sugar. Cook in the microwave for 5 minutes. Stirring every minute. If they start to burn, pull them and immediately place cooked pecans on parchment paper to cool.

Step 3 – Make Mayo Salad Dressing

Combine mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, and Stone Ground mustard in a small bowl to make the dressing. To give the salad a little sweetness, also add maple syrup. Squeeze and use the juice of one lemon. You can use only half a lemon if you prefer it sweet rather than tart. Mix thoroughly. Set aside for later.

Step 4 – Mix Salad

Take potatoes out of the fridge and begin assembling the salad. Toss the roasted sweet potatoes in a large bowl with the dressing, arugula, and dried cranberries. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the salad and give everything a final stir.

Serve immediately once everything is mixed. You can also serve it at room temperature if you prefer.

the best cold sweet potato salad recipe
Photo: MyPhotography.com

What is sweet potato salad made of?

The answer is simple: sweet potatoes, arugula, dried cranberries, and caramelized almonds. These ingredients work together to create a unique flavor profile that will please your taste buds.

The sweet potatoes are the star of the dish, providing a natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the tangy lemon, mustard, and maple syrup dressing and savory pecans.

With just a handful of ingredients, this sweet potato salad is easy to make and perfect for any summer gathering or potluck. It’s a great side dish for grilled meats or fish, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Also, did you know that sweet potato are packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber, making this salad a healthy and delicious

sweet potato salad recipe
Photo: MyPhotography.com

Now, let’s get to the recipe for the best sweet potato salad you’ve ever tasted.,

roasted sweet potatoes
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5 from 3 votes

Sweet Potato Salad Recipe

Here's a Cold Sweet Potato Salad Recipe that will change your mind about salads. This salad is a healthy dish that can be enjoyed all year.
Prep Time30 minutes mins
Cook Time30 minutes mins
Chill Time1 hour hr
Total Time2 hours hrs
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Asian Chicken Salad, Calamari Salad, cold sweet potato salad, dinner recipes, fall salad, healthy salad, Salad Recipe, spring salad, sweet potato, sweet potato salad, thanksgiving, vegetable salad
Servings: 5 servings
Calories: 469kcal

Ingredients

Salad Recipe

  • 2 lbs sweet potatoes
  • 2 tbs olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Sprinkle on potatoes to lightly coat them
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1½ cups arugula Add more or less depending on your taste

Sugared Pecans

  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 6 tbs sugar
  • ⅛ cup water

Salad Dressing

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp stone ground mustard with seeds
  • 1 lemon juice of one or half a lemon

Instructions

Sweet Potatoes

  • First, peel and chop your sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Then, toss them in olive oil and salt, and spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Roast the sweet potatoes in a 400-degree oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 25 minutes.
  • Cover and place sweet potatoes in the refrigerator if you want your salad cold. I leave it in the fridge for an hour or more.

Pecans

  • While the sweet potatoes are cooking, you can prepare your other ingredients. Caramelize the nuts by placing 1 cup of halved pecans in a large Pyrex glass container. Add 1/8 cup of water and 6 tablespoons of sugar.
  • Cook in the microwave for 5 minutes. Stirring every minute. If they start to burn, pull them and immediately place cooked pecans on parchment paper to cool.

Salad Dressing

  • Combine a quarter cup of mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, and two tablespoons of Dijon mustard in a small bowl to make the dressing. To give the salad a little sweetness, measure a quarter cup of maple syrup.
  • Squeeze and use the juice of one lemon. Mix thoroughly. Set aside for later.

Make the Salad

  • Right before serving, mix the ingredients.
  • Toss the cold sweet potatoes with the dressing, arugula, and dried cranberries in a large bowl.
  • Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the salad and give everything a final stir. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 469kcal | Carbohydrates: 84g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 645mg | Potassium: 728mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 50g | Vitamin A: 25895IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @happyhappynester or tag #happyhappynester!
how to roast vegetables
Photo: MyPhotography.com

Still, have questions about sweet potato salad? Check out the following FAQs.,

FAQs

Do sweet potatoes have a different texture than regular potatoes when used in a salad?

Yes, sweet potatoes have a creamier texture and a slightly sweeter taste than regular potatoes, which makes them a delicious and healthier alternative to salads.

Can I use other mayonnaise-based dressings for sweet potato salad instead of the Dijon mustard one?

Absolutely! You can use any dressing you prefer in your sweet potato salad. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find your perfect mix.

Can I add other vegetables to my sweet potato salad?

Of course! Sweet potato salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Add any vegetables you like, such as avocados, spinach leaves, and red cabbage, to give your salad more crunch and color.

Is sweet potato salad healthy?

Yes, sweet potato salad is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, remember that salad dressing can add extra calories and fat, so it’s essential to use it in moderation.


Roasted sweet potato salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion. I love how the sweet and nutty flavor of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing in this recipe. Plus, roasting the potatoes adds a crispy texture to the dish, making your guests return for seconds.

Cheers,

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Blogger’s Best Spring Salad Recipes

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Janine Waite
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I named my blog Happy Happy Nester because I love everything related to the home. I’ve always enjoyed decorating my surroundings. Get cozy and stay for a bit, thanks for visiting!
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    Comments

    1. ASHLEY

      April 13, 2023 at 4:09 pm

      5 stars
      Looks delish!

      Reply
    2. Jennifer Hadfield

      April 16, 2023 at 5:01 am

      5 stars
      I can’t wait to make this, Janine! Pinned!

      xoxo

      Reply
    3. Annie Diamond

      April 16, 2023 at 7:35 pm

      5 stars
      Janine! I love sweet potato anything…and a salad…how divine! It’s so pretty and colorful!

      Reply

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