Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Maple, Feta & Crunchy Walnuts (WW-Friendly)

This Weight Watchers-friendly side dish combines naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes with a touch of maple syrup, tangy feta, and crunchy walnuts. It’s perfect for holiday meals, meal prep, or as a flavorful side for chicken, fish, or pork.

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes

Estimated WW Points

5–7 Points per serving (varies by WW plan and specific brands used)

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 8g

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Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 2 lbs (900 g) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tsp olive oil
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Maple Glaze

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp apple cider vinegar
• Pinch of cinnamon

For the Topping

• ⅓ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• ⅓ cup reduced-fat feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Equipment

• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Small whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

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Step 2: Season the Sweet Potatoes

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large bowl.

Add:

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cinnamon

Toss until evenly coated.

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Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Avoid overcrowding the pan so the potatoes caramelize instead of steam.

Roast for 20 minutes.

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Step 4: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While the potatoes roast, whisk together:

• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Pinch of cinnamon

Mix until smooth.

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Step 5: Add the Glaze

After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven.

Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes.

Toss gently to coat.

Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10–15 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

The potatoes should be:

• Tender inside
• Golden brown on the edges
• Lightly caramelized

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Step 6: Toast the Walnuts

While the potatoes finish cooking:

1. Heat a small dry skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the chopped walnuts.
3. Toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Remove immediately once fragrant to prevent burning.

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Step 7: Assemble the Dish

Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes to a serving bowl or platter.

Sprinkle evenly with:

• Crumbled feta
• Toasted walnuts
• Fresh parsley (if using)

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Step 8: Serve

Serve warm.

The combination of warm sweet potatoes, creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and maple glaze creates a balanced mix of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy flavors.

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WW-Friendly Variations

Lower-Point Version

• Reduce walnuts to ¼ cup.
• Use fat-free feta.
• Reduce maple syrup to 1 tablespoon.

Mediterranean Style

Add:

• Fresh mint
• Lemon zest
• A few chopped green onions

Holiday Version

Add:

• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
• Extra cinnamon
• A pinch of nutmeg

Spicy-Sweet Version

Add:

• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• A dash of smoked paprika

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Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Microwave: 1–2 minutes.
• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Freezing

Not recommended, as the texture of the sweet potatoes and feta may change after thawing.

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Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with:

• Grilled chicken breast
• Salmon
• Roasted turkey
• Pork tenderloin
• Mixed green salad

WW Success Tip

For maximum flavor with minimal Points, roast the sweet potatoes until deeply caramelized. The natural sugars intensify during roasting, allowing you to use less maple syrup while still achieving a rich, sweet flavor.