Oh, sweet potato fries! They hold a special place in my heart, not just for their irresistible crunch and delightful sweetness, but for the memories they bring back of cozy evenings spent with friends. I remember the first time I made these for a gathering; I tossed them in the oven and couldn’t believe how they transformed into golden-brown perfection. The best part? Dipping them in that creamy garlic aioli made me wonder why I ever opted for regular fries!
These Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are a healthier twist on the classic fry, and they’re super easy to whip up. Every time I make them, I’m reminded of my adventures in the kitchen and how a simple dish like this can lead to laughter, sharing stories, and devouring every last fry.
What’s in Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli?
Sweet Potatoes: These vibrant tubers are the star of the show! Naturally sweet and oh-so-nutritious, they bring a wonderful flavor and beautiful color to the table.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of this heart-healthy oil gives the fries a nice crispy finish. I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste, but regular olive oil works too.
Spices: I like to keep it simple – a little salt, pepper, and paprika adds just the right kick. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite spices like cayenne for a zesty flair!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the key to my creamy aioli. It brings a punch of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the fries. Trust me; the fresher, the better!
Egg Yolk: For a traditional aioli, you’ll need this to create that rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a shortcut, you can use mayo instead, but I promise making it from scratch is totally worth it!
Lemon Juice: A splash of this fresh citrus not only brightens the flavor but also balances out the richness of the aioli. Freshly squeezed always makes a difference!
Is Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Good for You?
Absolutely! These fries are not just tasty; they are brimming with health benefits.
Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, they support your immune system and promote healthy skin. Plus, the fiber found in sweet potatoes can help with digestion.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat is known for its heart benefits and can lower cholesterol levels, making it a great choice for cooking.
On the flip side, while sweet potatoes are healthier than regular potatoes, it’s good to keep portion sizes in mind, especially if you’re trying to watch your carb intake. The garlic aioli, although delicious, has calories from the oil and the egg yolk, so moderation is key!
Ingredients
– 2 large sweet potatoes (serves about 4)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the garlic aioli:
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Get that oven nice and hot!
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin fries. Aim for about ¼ inch thick for that perfect crunch!
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
4. Spread the sweet potato fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded (this is key for crispiness!).
5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. While the fries are baking, let’s whip up that garlic aioli. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
7. Slowly add the olive oil while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
8. Stir in the minced garlic and season with salt to taste—if you love garlic like I do, feel free to add more!
9. Once the fries are done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving them with your delicious homemade aioli.
Sweet Tips & Serving Suggestions!
– For an added twist, try sprinkling nutritional yeast on your fries before baking for a cheesy flavor – it’s my guilty pleasure!
– Serve them alongside a fresh salad or as a side to your favorite protein. I love them with grilled chicken or veggie burgers!
– If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), they heat up beautifully in the oven for a quick snack the next day.
I can’t wait for you to give these Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli a try! They’re the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent, and I promise they’ll become a favorite in your household just like they are in mine. Don’t forget to share your experience with me—I love hearing about your food adventures! Happy cooking!