Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet

Name: Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped; 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet when I want a filling yet nutritious meal. The combination of sweet potatoes and kale is not only delicious but packed with vitamins and minerals. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the kale adds a wonderful earthy tone. I'll often top it with some crispy chickpeas for added protein and texture, making it a balanced dish perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:10:20.019Z

One evening, I was craving something hearty yet wholesome, and that’s when I decided to combine sweet potatoes with kale in one skillet. I roasted the sweet potatoes until they were perfectly caramelized, which brought out their sweetness and slight nuttiness. The addition of sautéed garlic and kale completed the dish, elevating it with a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily modify it by adding in other vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Additionally, serving it with a squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch that enhances the overall experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly in every bite.
It’s a colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Very easy to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients of this dish are sweet potatoes and kale. Sweet potatoes are not only delicious, but they also bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture to the skillet. When roasted, they caramelize slightly, creating a golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with their tender flesh. Kale, on the other hand, adds a nutritious and earthy element to the meal. Choosing fresh, vibrant green kale ensures a more flavorful outcome, as older leaves may be tougher and less appealing.

When selecting chickpeas, you can opt for canned beans for convenience, but if you have the time, consider using dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and boil until tender for an even better texture. Roasting them in the skillet will yield a delightful crunch that enhances the entire dish, giving a satisfying bite that balances the softness of the sweet potatoes and the tenderness of the kale.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

Roasting sweet potatoes is all about timing and temperature. Following the recommended 400°F (200°C) ensures they cook evenly and develop that sought-after caramelization. Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer to facilitate even roasting. If your potatoes are cut too large, they may take longer to become tender, so aim for even cubes, roughly 1-inch in size.

When sautéing chickpeas, make sure your skillet is preheated adequately before adding the chickpeas to achieve that crispy texture. If they are too wet from rinsing, they may steam rather than sauté, failing to develop the golden crust that enhances the dish. No one enjoys a mushy chickpea, so a good pat dry before cooking can make a significant difference.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Make sure to wash your vegetables thoroughly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious skillet:

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, or until they are golden and tender.

Prepare the Chickpeas

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chickpeas along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 10 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.

Sauté the Kale

Once the sweet potatoes are done, add the chopped kale to the skillet with the chickpeas. Stir and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the kale has wilted and softened.

Combine and Serve

Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet, toss everything together, and drizzle with lemon juice if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your nutritious meal!

Feel free to add extras like nuts or seeds for a delightful crunch!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some feta cheese or nutritional yeast on top before serving. This adds a savory touch that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty meal, but it's also an excellent side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed dinner. I love to serve it alongside a simple yogurt dip, which complements the flavors nicely and adds a creamy element to the meal.

For a bit of crunch and extra flavor, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving. Pumpkin seeds or walnuts can add a delightful texture contrast, making each bite even more satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the kale vibrant and prevent it from becoming too soft, consider storing the sweet potatoes and chickpeas separately. This allows you to reheat each component without compromising texture.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to help retain the crispiness of the chickpeas. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to reintroduce moisture as needed, ensuring they don't dry out during the process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add broccoli, bell peppers, or any other favorite veggies.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, the Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet is completely vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños while sautéing the chickpeas for an extra kick!

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! This skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.