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Various appealing after school snacks neatly arranged on a table for kids.

Speedy Sweet Potato & Black Bean Bites

These quick and easy sweet potato and black bean bites are perfect as a healthy snack or appetizer. They are packed with flavor and simple to prepare.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large sweet potato peeled and cooked until very soft (mashed)
  • 1 can (15-ounce) black beans rinsed and drained, lightly mashed
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder optional, for a little kick
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Greek yogurt or a simple salsa Optional, for dipping

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the mashed sweet potato and lightly mashed black beans in a large bowl, ensuring they are well mixed.
  3. Add the chopped red bell pepper, red onion, breadcrumbs, olive oil, cumin, chili powder (if desired), salt, and pepper; mix thoroughly until the mixture is firm enough to form into balls. Adjust consistency by adding more breadcrumbs if too wet, or a splash of water/olive oil if too dry.
  4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  6. Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving; they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 1 month, and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  7. Serve warm, optionally with Greek yogurt or salsa for dipping.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime juice to the mixture. These bites are also delicious served with a spicy mayo or avocado crema.