BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

This BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30} is a delightful and colorful dish that brings the best flavors of summer to your table. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, fresh veggies, and a creamy, zesty dressing makes it suitable for any occasion, from barbecues to potlucks. This salad not only satisfies the taste buds but also keeps things healthy and compliant with both Paleo and Whole30 diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The sweet and smoky notes from the BBQ ranch dressing combined with roasted sweet potatoes create a delicious harmony.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
• Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love the taste, making it a great addition to family gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes and fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting sweet potatoes evenly. A good quality baking sheet promotes better browning.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining all the ingredients together, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly without lumps.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping veggies quick and safe.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}, you’ll need:

For the Dressing

• 1 medjool date (softened in hot water if necessary)
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp spicy brown mustard
• 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp homemade mayo (or store bought Paleo Mayo like Primal Kitchen)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp dried chives (optional)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Dash cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Salad

• 3 med sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2-1” chunks)
• 1 Tbsp reserved Turkey turkey bacon fat or other liquid cooking fat
• Generous pinch sea salt
• Generous pinch black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 6 slices nitrate-free Turkey turkey bacon (sugar free for Whole30 – cut into pieces)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (seeded and minced)
• 3 Tbsp thinly sliced scallions

How to Make BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your sweet potatoes roast perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Place the chopped sweet potatoes on a baking sheet.
• Drizzle with reserved turkey bacon fat or another liquid cooking fat.
• Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss until well-coated.

Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Roast in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through roasting for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Bacon

While the sweet potatoes are roasting:
* In a skillet over medium heat, cook the nitrate-free turkey bacon until crispy.
* Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine softened medjool date, water, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, spicy brown mustard, homemade mayo, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chives (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
* Whisk until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

In a large serving bowl:
* Add roasted sweet potatoes, cooked turkey bacon pieces, diced red bell pepper, finely diced onion, minced jalapeno pepper, and thinly sliced scallions.
* Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Serve this delicious BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad warm or chill it in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

This BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether at a summer barbecue or as a side for your weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it as a light lunch option, packed with nutrients and flavor.
• Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty main dish.
• It complements grilled lamb beautifully, adding a sweet and tangy contrast.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with the salad.
• These make for fun finger foods at parties and gatherings.

On Top of Greens

• Serve it over mixed greens for an added crunch and freshness.
• Drizzle with extra BBQ ranch dressing for heightened flavor.

As Meal Prep

• Pack into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious on day two.

How to Perfect BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

To make this BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad truly shine, consider these simple tips that enhance both its taste and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs can elevate the overall flavor profile of your salad.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your preference to achieve the perfect balance.
• Try Different Vegetables – Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or corn for variety and additional nutrients.
• Make Ahead – Prepare the sweet potatoes and dressing ahead of time for quick assembly when ready to serve.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
• Experiment with Toppings – Add sliced avocado or nuts for added creaminess or crunch.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

This tasty salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus charred on the grill add smokiness.
2. Cauliflower Rice – Light and fluffy riced cauliflower makes a low-carb complement that absorbs flavors well.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad – A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast that balances the savory salad nicely.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – This nutty grain dish adds texture and protein while keeping everything nutritious.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy salad elements.
6. Crispy Chickpeas – Roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices add protein and crunch, making them an excellent side dish choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Using undercooked sweet potatoes – Make sure to roast the sweet potatoes until they are tender for the best flavor and texture.
• Overdressing the salad – Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid sogginess.
• Forgetting to season – Always add salt and pepper to taste, as this enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
• Skipping cooling time – Let the roasted sweet potatoes cool down before mixing them with other ingredients to maintain their texture.
• Not adjusting spices – Feel free to modify the spice levels according to your preference, especially if you enjoy a bit more heat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the salad is completely cooled before sealing it.

Freezing BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30}

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad:

Can I make BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30} ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container and add dressing right before serving.

What can I substitute for turkey bacon in this recipe?

You can use crispy chicken bacon or skip it entirely for a vegetarian option. The salad will still be delicious!

How do I make this BBQ ranch dressing from scratch?

This dressing combines medjool dates, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and spices. Follow the recipe closely for a tasty result!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad is perfect for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and makes for a nutritious side or lunch option.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Ranch Sweet Potato Salad {Paleo, Whole30} is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy side dish any time of year. Try making it today!