This BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is a flavorful and vibrant side dish that’s sure to impress! The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables makes it a delicious option for any occasion. The BBQ ranch dressing adds a creamy and smoky touch, tying all the ingredients together.
Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or BBQs, this salad is not only healthy but also full of bold flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy sweet potatoes in a new and exciting way, with a satisfying balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh tastes. Plus, it’s Paleo and Whole30-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 large sweet potatoes
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1/4 cup olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
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1/4 cup red onion, diced
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1/4 cup green onion, chopped
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
BBQ Ranch Dressing:
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1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or mayo)
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2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (Paleo-friendly)
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
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Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
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Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through cooking.
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While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the BBQ ranch dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, bacon, red onion, green onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
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Drizzle with BBQ ranch dressing and toss to coat. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Why BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad Is So Popular
The appeal of BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while the BBQ ranch dressing adds a smoky, tangy kick. The crispy bacon introduces a savory crunch, complementing the softness of the sweet potatoes. The addition of fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and cilantro gives the salad a refreshing burst of flavor, making it a satisfying side or even a stand-alone meal.
BBQ and ranch are two flavors that naturally complement each other, and when combined with roasted sweet potatoes, they create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and bold. This salad is not only a hit at summer BBQs but also works beautifully for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.
Health Benefits of BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene, which can help improve vision and boost immunity. They also provide a significant amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Furthermore, sweet potatoes are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle function.
The addition of bacon may seem indulgent, but when used in moderation, it can be a flavorful way to add protein and healthy fats to the dish. For those following Paleo or Whole30, choosing nitrate-free bacon ensures the salad remains in line with these eating plans while still providing that irresistible savory crunch.
The BBQ ranch dressing in this recipe, especially when made with coconut milk or mayo, is a great way to enjoy creamy flavors without relying on dairy. The apple cider vinegar in the dressing also has several health benefits, including improving digestion and supporting healthy skin.
How to Customize BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad
One of the best things about this BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is its versatility. The base of sweet potatoes, bacon, and BBQ ranch dressing provides a great foundation, but you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon and add some roasted chickpeas or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken or pulled pork to the salad. The smoky, tender meat pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes and BBQ ranch dressing, making this dish even more satisfying. If you love a bit of heat, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to give the salad a spicy kick.
The vegetables in this recipe are also flexible. You can swap the red onion for shallots or green onions, and you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even corn for more variety. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can be used in place of cilantro, or you can use a combination of different herbs to change up the flavor profile.
BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad for Different Occasions
This BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is perfect for any gathering. Its bold and creamy flavors make it a great side dish for BBQs, cookouts, or picnics. It’s also hearty enough to serve as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. Because the salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, it’s ideal for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the salad a day or two before your event, and it will still taste delicious and fresh.
The salad is also a fantastic addition to holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. Its warm, comforting flavors can complement a variety of main dishes, from turkey to ham to grilled meats. The bright colors of the salad make it visually appealing, making it a showstopper on your holiday spread.
In addition to its versatility, BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is a great option for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it a convenient and healthy option for lunches throughout the week. You can even pack it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Making BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad Ahead of Time
One of the most convenient things about BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is how well it holds up over time. The roasted sweet potatoes will stay fresh in the salad for several days in the fridge, and the flavors of the dressing will meld together, making the dish even more flavorful the next day. If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, consider dressing it right before serving to avoid it becoming soggy.
For optimal storage, keep the bacon and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve the salad. This will help maintain the crispiness of the bacon and prevent the salad from becoming too soggy. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to three days.
The Perfect Side to Pair With BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad
This sweet potato salad pairs wonderfully with a wide range of main dishes. It’s an excellent complement to grilled meats, such as chicken, steak, or ribs. The smoky flavor of the BBQ ranch dressing enhances the grilled flavors of the meat, making it a perfect side dish for your next cookout or BBQ.
If you’re serving this salad at a picnic, it goes great with sandwiches, burgers, or even veggie wraps. Its creamy and tangy flavor contrasts beautifully with savory, smoky grilled foods, making it a crowd-pleasing addition to any outdoor meal.
Conclusion
BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the bold flavors of BBQ ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish for a BBQ or a make-ahead option for a busy week, this salad fits the bill. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Plus, it’s Paleo and Whole30-friendly, so it caters to various dietary preferences while still delivering on taste.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs, making it a go-to option for any occasion. So next time you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious side dish, give this BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad a try – you won’t be disappointed!