I made this meal on New Years Eve and have been meaning to upload it to share with the world because it’s delicious! This combination of ingredients provides so many different flavors. So so good!

Being in private practice for {almost} 8 years now, it is a continuous theme that people fear carbohydrates. The belief system around carbohydrates makes me sad honestly. Diet culture has ruined the truth and reputation of carbohydrates. Here is your friendly reminder that there are many nutrient-dense carbohydrates that nature provides us. One of them is sweet potatoes! A food I cannot live without.

Here are some fun facts about sweet potatoes:

1. Complex Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in sweet potatoes primarily come from complex carbohydrates, which are digested more slowly than simple carbohydrates. This slower digestion helps prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making sweet potatoes suitable for people looking to manage blood sugar levels or control their carbohydrate intake.
   
2. Fiber Content: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, with both soluble and insoluble fibers. Fiber helps slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, promoting a feeling of fullness and preventing overeating. It also supports digestive health and regular bowel movements.
   
3. Glycemic Index: Despite their carbohydrate content, sweet potatoes have a relatively low glycemic index (GI), especially compared to white potatoes and other starchy foods. Foods with a lower GI are less likely to cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making them a preferable choice for those monitoring their blood sugar.
   
4. Nutrient Density: While sweet potatoes do contain carbohydrates, they are also rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They provide significant amounts of vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vitamin C, potassium, and other nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being.
   

There are many ways we can consume sweet potatoes. I have uploaded many sweet potato recipes so here is a new one to add to the mix! I paired this with grass-fed ground beef, delicious! However, this meal will go with just about any protein of choice. Enjoy ya’ll!

INGREDIENTS: 2 SERVINGS

• 2 Medium Sweet Potatoes
• 2 Cups Arugula
• 1/2 Cup Raw Pecans
• 5 Dates, chopped
• 2 oz Feta Cheese (you can dice avocado instead if you’re dairy-free)
• Zest of 1/2 Lemon
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
• Olive Oil
• Sea Salt/Pepper, as desired

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
2. Wash your sweet potatoes well under cold-warm water. Cut them in half and place them face down on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes (this will depend on the strength of your oven and the thickness of the potato).
4. As the potatoes are cooking mix together in a large bowl, of arugula, dates, pecans, feta cheese, salt, and pepper (as desired). Mix well together. Drizzle olive oil and add lemon zest. Add fresh lemon juice. Mix well together.
5. When the sweet potatoes are finished baking, let them cool for about 8-10 minutes.
6. Using a fork, push down the sweet potato to create a “boat”. Add the salad on top and enjoy!
7. Pair this with your protein of choice!