Introduction
There’s something about a well-made toast that’s both satisfying and versatile—it’s the kind of meal that you can easily customize to match your cravings. Whether it’s a savory breakfast, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, toast has you covered. But what if we took it to the next level? Enter: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Toast.
This recipe is everything I love about simple, hearty food: it’s packed with nutrients, full of flavor, and comes together in less than 40 minutes. The roasted sweet potatoes bring a touch of natural sweetness, which perfectly balances the savory richness of black beans, topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of feta cheese for that extra oomph.
The best part? You can enjoy this dish no matter the time of day. It’s a wholesome breakfast that will fuel your day, a quick lunch that doesn’t skimp on flavor, or even a light dinner when you’re craving something comforting yet healthy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which is always a win in my book!
This recipe first came into my life when I was experimenting with plant-based meals. I wanted something that felt filling but still light, and after a bit of trial and error, I stumbled upon this combination. It was a hit from the first bite, and now it’s a regular in my meal rotation. Trust me, you’ll love it too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons this Sweet Potato and Black Bean Toast is a must-try! Here are just a few:
- Quick and easy: This recipe is all about minimal effort and maximum flavor. The sweet potatoes roast in the oven while you prep the rest, making it the perfect “hands-off” meal.
- Packed with nutrients: Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of vitamins and fiber, while black beans provide protein and healthy fats. Add avocado and feta, and you’ve got a complete meal.
- Endlessly customizable: While this recipe is delicious as-is, feel free to make it your own! Swap out the feta for goat cheese, add a spicy kick with jalapeños, or top with a poached egg for extra richness.
- Perfect for all diets: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to eat more plant-based meals, this toast fits the bill. It’s also naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free bread!
- Great for meal prep: You can easily make these toasts in advance and store them for a quick snack or meal later in the week.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 slices of toast (2 servings for a hearty meal)
Nutrition Facts (per serving, 2 slices of toast):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 9g
Ingredients
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this toast the star of the show:
- 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Sweet potatoes bring a delicious natural sweetness and a ton of health benefits. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium—making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Black beans are packed with protein and fiber, giving this toast a hearty, satisfying base. They also add a savory richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes.
- 4 slices whole grain or gluten-free bread
- Choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the toppings! Whole grain bread adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free bread.
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Creamy avocado is the perfect topping for this toast, balancing out the sweet potatoes and black beans with its rich, smooth texture.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Feta adds a salty, tangy punch that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes. If you’re vegan, feel free to skip this or substitute with vegan cheese.
- Olive oil
- A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps the sweet potatoes roast beautifully.
- Salt and pepper
- These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Optional toppings: Red pepper flakes, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, peel and dice your sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes.- Tip: Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking!
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the sweet potato cubes out in a single layer on the sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. The roasted edges are key to the flavor!
- Tip: Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking!
- Toast the Bread
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, toast your bread in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown and crispy.- Tip: I love using a thick, hearty bread that has a good chew to it. This helps it hold up against all those delicious toppings!
- Warm the Black Beans
In a small pot, heat the black beans over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can add a little bit of water or broth to loosen them up, but I like to keep them nice and thick. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir in any extra spices you like (cumin or chili powder work wonderfully here!). - Assemble the Toast
Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting and the bread is toasted, it’s time to build the toast!- Spread a generous layer of black beans on each slice of toast.
- Top with a handful of roasted sweet potatoes.
- Add a few slices of creamy avocado.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
- Optional Garnishes
If you’re feeling fancy, top your toast with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spice, a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness, or a handful of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. - Serve and Enjoy
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Slice up your toast and dig in. The warm, roasted sweet potatoes combined with the creamy black beans, rich avocado, and tangy feta are simply irresistible.
How to Serve
Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Pair with a crisp side salad: Serve alongside a simple salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh and vibrant contrast.
- Serve with a protein: If you want to turn this into a more filling meal, top it with a fried or poached egg for extra protein.
- Make it a snack: Have a smaller portion with a handful of baby carrots or an apple on the side for a light afternoon snack.
- Serve with a beverage: A refreshing iced tea or a light citrusy mocktail pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Additional Tips
- Make sure to season the beans: Black beans on their own can be a little bland, so be sure to add some seasoning. A little garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder elevate the flavor.
- Use ripe avocados: For the best creamy texture, use avocados that are perfectly ripe—soft, but not mushy.
- Roast sweet potatoes for extra flavor: Let the sweet potatoes caramelize in the oven! The crispy edges are where all the flavor happens.
- Customize your toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, or even some sautéed spinach.
- Toast the bread until crispy: Make sure your bread is well-toasted so it holds up to all the toppings without getting soggy.
Recipe Variations
- Vegan Option: Omit the feta and replace it with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a bit of heat.
- Swap the Sweet Potatoes: Try using roasted butternut squash or even cauliflower if you want a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a completely gluten-free meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Toast is great for:
- Brunch: Serve it as part of a brunch spread, alongside other dishes like scrambled eggs or a fruit salad.
- Lunch or Dinner: It’s a great standalone meal for lunch or dinner, but you can also pair it with roasted veggies or a side of quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Meal Prep: Make a batch of roasted sweet potatoes and beans in advance for easy, grab-and-go lunches throughout the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! You can roast the sweet potatoes and heat the black beans ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply toast the bread and reheat the sweet potatoes and black beans before assembling your toast. This makes for an easy, quick meal during the week!
2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever bread you prefer. Whole grain, sourdough, or rye are all excellent choices. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap the bread for a gluten-free variety, just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all the toppings.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add spicy toppings like sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You could also add a drizzle of hot sauce or sprinkle chili powder on the black beans while heating them for an extra kick.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of feta, you can easily swap it out. Goat cheese, cotija, or even shredded cheddar would work well. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cheese or simply skip it altogether for a lighter version.
5. How do I know if my sweet potatoes are cooked through?
You’ll know the sweet potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender and slightly crispy around the edges. You can test one by poking it with a fork—if it easily goes through, they’re ready! Don’t forget to toss them halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Toast
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this toast the star of the show:
- 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Sweet potatoes bring a delicious natural sweetness and a ton of health benefits. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium—making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Black beans are packed with protein and fiber, giving this toast a hearty, satisfying base. They also add a savory richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes.
- 4 slices whole grain or gluten-free bread
- Choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the toppings! Whole grain bread adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free bread.
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Creamy avocado is the perfect topping for this toast, balancing out the sweet potatoes and black beans with its rich, smooth texture.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Feta adds a salty, tangy punch that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes. If you’re vegan, feel free to skip this or substitute with vegan cheese.
- Olive oil
- A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps the sweet potatoes roast beautifully.
- Salt and pepper
- These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Optional toppings: Red pepper flakes, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Instructions
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, peel and dice your sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes.- Tip: Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking!
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the sweet potato cubes out in a single layer on the sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. The roasted edges are key to the flavor!
- Tip: Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking!
- Toast the Bread
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, toast your bread in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown and crispy.- Tip: I love using a thick, hearty bread that has a good chew to it. This helps it hold up against all those delicious toppings!
- Warm the Black Beans
In a small pot, heat the black beans over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can add a little bit of water or broth to loosen them up, but I like to keep them nice and thick. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir in any extra spices you like (cumin or chili powder work wonderfully here!). - Assemble the Toast
Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting and the bread is toasted, it’s time to build the toast!- Spread a generous layer of black beans on each slice of toast.
- Top with a handful of roasted sweet potatoes.
- Add a few slices of creamy avocado.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
- Optional Garnishes
If you’re feeling fancy, top your toast with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spice, a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness, or a handful of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. - Serve and Enjoy
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Slice up your toast and dig in. The warm, roasted sweet potatoes combined with the creamy black beans, rich avocado, and tangy feta are simply irresistible.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Toast is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and packed with all the good stuff your body craves. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked after the first bite!