Sweet potato salad with buttermilk dressing

This Sweet Potato Salad features roasted sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, and caramelized pecans, all tossed in a tangy buttermilk dressing. It's a delicious, nutritious option for a light lunch or side dish.

12 Jan 2026
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1.50 sweet potatos
2 tsp olive oil
1/2 cup pecans
1 tbsp honey
4 bacon strips
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp chives
2 tsp mustard
4 cups lettuce
Sweet potato salad with buttermilk dressing

Sweet potato salad with buttermilk dressing is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the rich, tangy flavors of a buttermilk dressing. The addition of crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, and fresh lettuce makes this salad both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for a light lunch or a delicious side dish, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a harmony of tastes and textures.

Instructions:

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the sweet potatoes with 2 tsp of olive oil, and toss to coat evenly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.
2. Caramelize the Pecans:
- While the potatoes are roasting, heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pecans and toast them lightly, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle 1 tbsp of honey over the pecans, and stir to coat them evenly.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pecans are caramelized. Transfer them to a piece of parchment paper to cool.
3. Cook the Bacon:
- In the same skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Once cooled, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
4. Prepare the Buttermilk Dressing:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of buttermilk, 1 tbsp of mayonnaise, 2 tbsp of finely chopped chives, and 2 tsp of mustard.
- Whisk together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
5. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized pecans, chopped bacon, and 4 cups of roughly chopped lettuce.
- Drizzle the buttermilk dressing over the salad.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
6. Serve:
- Serve the sweet potato salad immediately for the best flavors and textures.

This sweet potato salad with buttermilk dressing is more than just a side dish—it's a burst of flavors and textures that can easily stand alone as a satisfying meal. With the creamy buttermilk dressing, the crunch from the pecans and bacon, and the fresh crispness of the lettuce, every bite is a delight. Follow these steps and tips to create a salad that's not only delicious but also visually appealing and nutritious.

Sweet potato salad with buttermilk dressing FAQ:

How long should I roast the sweet potatoes?

Roast the sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Check for tenderness and slight caramelization, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Can I make the buttermilk dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the buttermilk dressing in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before using.

What can I substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1/3 cup milk and 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using to achieve a similar tangy flavor.

How do I store leftover sweet potato salad?

Store leftover sweet potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness of the lettuce, consider adding the dressing just before serving.

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this salad?

You can use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste and vibrant color. Yams can also work, but they are denser and have a different flavor profile.

Tips:

- When roasting the sweet potatoes, make sure they are evenly coated in olive oil for a uniform roast.

- Watch the pecans closely while toasting to avoid burning, as they can turn bitter if overdone.

- For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

- If you're preparing the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite greens or add-ins like crumbled feta cheese or sliced radishes for extra flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 15g
Fiber 3.31g
Sugar 4.36g
Fat 16g

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