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Protein Loaded Sweet Potato Boats

Protein Loaded Sweet Potato Boats
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Protein Loaded Sweet Potato Boats are a hearty and nutritious meal combining the natural sweetness and creamy texture of baked sweet potatoes with protein-rich fillings and vibrant vegetables. Perfect as a balanced meal for lunch, dinner, or post-workout refuel, this recipe offers balanced nutrition, vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and customizable options to suit vegetarian, vegan, or meat-lover preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2–4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 to 1.5 cups cooked lean protein (shredded chicken, black beans, chickpeas, or lentils)
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar, optional)
  • Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly, pierce several times with a fork, and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes or until tender when pierced with a knife. The skin should be slightly crisp, and the inside soft and fluffy.
  2. Cook the Protein and Veggies: While sweet potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers and chopped spinach or kale, sautéing until wilted. Stir in your choice of cooked protein along with smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through and flavorful.
  3. Assemble the Boats: Once sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice each in half lengthwise and scoop out some flesh, leaving a border to keep the skins intact. Mix the scooped potato flesh into the protein and vegetable mixture, then spoon it back into each sweet potato skin.
  4. Add Toppings and Bake Again: Top each filled sweet potato boat with a dollop of Greek yogurt (or chosen creamy topping) and sprinkle with cheese if using. Return to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes to meld flavors and melt cheese.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, and serve warm for a nourishing meal.

Notes

  • Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking and fitting on trays or plates.
  • Do not over-scoop the potato flesh; leaving enough around edges helps maintain sturdy skins.
  • Use pre-cooked protein or leftovers to reduce prep time.
  • Adjust spices according to your flavor preference.
  • Prep toppings ahead to speed up assembly during mealtime.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easyfoodflash.com/protein-loaded-sweet-potato-boats/