Sweet potatoes are easily distinguished by their pale purple skins and bright orange flesh. The biggest clue to their health benefits comes through their color. As with all produce, the pigmentation can offer clues about the properties of the food. In the case of sweet potatoes, the color is attributable to a high level of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to prevent oxidative damage, which can help prevent both cancer and cardiovascular disease. You can incorporate sweet potatoes simply by roasting them and adding them to any meal you choose.
Serves: 4 Serving Size: 1/2 a sweet potato
Ingredients
2 pounds sweet potatoes, washed
cooking oil spray
salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Slice potatoes into 1 -inch medallions. Be sure to leave the skin on to retain nutrients.
- Spray a 9 x 9 baking sheet with cooking oil spray. Place the sweet potatoes on the tray and spray a light layer of oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and bake for 20 minutes.
