Healthy & Flavorful Mexican Sweet Potato and Avocado Salad (Ensalada de Camote)

Experience the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and zesty flavors with this delightful Ensalada de Camote. Featuring tender roasted sweet potatoes, rich avocado, and a bright lime dressing, this Mexican-inspired salad is not only incredibly fresh and satisfying but also naturally gluten-free, vegan, and packed with nutrients. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a healthy addition to almost any occasion.

Growing up, sweet potatoes, or “camote” as they’re lovingly called in Spanish, were a staple in my home. My parents often prepared them soft and sweet, bathed in a rich piloncillo syrup – a truly comforting and cherished memory. While that traditional version remains a beloved classic, today’s recipe offers a lighter, healthier, and equally delicious take on this versatile root vegetable. This Ensalada de Camote celebrates the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes by pairing it with the refreshing zest of lime, the creamy texture of avocado, and the freshness of cilantro and cherry tomatoes.

The combination of lime and sweet potatoes might seem unexpected to some, but it’s a revelation! The citrusy tang beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the camote, creating a harmonious and invigorating flavor profile. Add in the buttery goodness of avocado, the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic pop of fresh cilantro, and you have a salad that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor and wholesome nutrients. This simple yet sophisticated dish is incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of fresh ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal.

If you’re as big a fan of sweet potatoes as I am, you might also enjoy exploring my Sweet Potato Taco Bowl, another fantastic way to incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Avocado Salad

• Incredibly Flavorful: The unique blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and zesty notes creates a truly unforgettable taste experience. The roasted sweet potatoes bring a caramelized depth that contrasts perfectly with the bright lime.
• Quick & Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cooking time, this salad comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for a healthy meal when you’re short on time.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, this salad is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and Whole30 compliant, catering to various dietary needs.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a standalone light lunch, a vibrant side dish for various entrees, or a crowd-pleasing addition to potlucks and picnics.
• Visually Appealing: The rich colors from the orange sweet potatoes, green avocado, and red cherry tomatoes make this salad a feast for the eyes.

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Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

Crafting this delicious salad requires only a few fresh, high-quality ingredients, each playing a vital role in its overall flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how you can customize it:

• Sweet Potatoes (Camote): The star of our salad! We recommend using medium-sized sweet potatoes, roasted until tender and slightly caramelized. Their natural sweetness is the perfect foundation. For variations, you could try Japanese sweet potatoes or even butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor profile.
• Avocado: Adds a wonderful creaminess and healthy fats. Choose ripe but firm avocados to ensure they hold their shape when diced. If preparing ahead, adding a little extra lime juice can help prevent browning.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These small, juicy tomatoes provide a burst of freshness and a touch of acidity. Grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes would also work well if cherry tomatoes aren’t available.
• Fresh Cilantro: Essential for that authentic Mexican flavor! Its bright, herbaceous notes perfectly complement the other ingredients. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or even a mix of mint and basil could offer a different, yet appealing, freshness.
• Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for the dressing, providing a vibrant tang that balances the sweetness of the potatoes and the richness of the avocado. Don’t use bottled lime juice – the fresh taste makes all the difference!
• Avocado Oil or Coconut Oil: Used for roasting the sweet potatoes, these oils are excellent for high-heat cooking and add a subtle flavor. Olive oil can also be used.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors. A pinch of chili flakes can add a subtle kick if desired.

Optional Additions to Elevate Your Salad:

• Black Beans: For an extra boost of plant-based protein and fiber, a can of rinsed and drained black beans is a fantastic addition, especially if you’re not adhering to a Whole30 diet.
• Queso Fresco (for non-vegan): Crumbled queso fresco adds a salty, tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes and avocado.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp (for non-vegan): If you’re looking to turn this side into a more substantial meal, lean grilled protein is an excellent choice.
• Red Onion: Finely diced red onion can add a sharp, pungent bite that some enjoy. Soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce its intensity.
• Jalapeño or Serrano: For those who love a bit of heat, finely minced fresh chilies can add a wonderful spice.

See the full recipe card below for precise quantities and detailed instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Perfect Ensalada de Camote

Making this vibrant sweet potato and avocado salad is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious and beautiful dish:

Expert Tips for a Perfect Ensalada de Camote

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: For truly crispy and caramelized sweet potatoes, ensure they are spread in a single layer on your baking sheet. If crowded, they will steam instead of roast. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Cool the Sweet Potatoes: Allow the roasted sweet potatoes to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before adding them to the other fresh ingredients. This prevents them from wilting the cilantro and getting too mushy when mixed. They don’t need to be completely cold, just warm.
• Choose Ripe Avocados: A perfectly ripe avocado is essential for creaminess. It should yield slightly when gently squeezed but not be too soft.
• Fresh Lime Juice is Key: Bottled lime juice simply doesn’t compare to the bright, zesty flavor of fresh limes. It also acts as a natural preservative for the avocado.
• Gentle Mixing: Avocados are delicate! Use a gentle hand or a wide spatula when tossing the salad to ensure the avocado pieces stay intact and creamy.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference. A little extra flaky sea salt can enhance the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Your Ensalada de Camote

This versatile sweet potato and avocado salad can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s fantastic slightly chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for any time of year. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Light Lunch: Enjoy a generous portion on its own for a satisfying and nutritious midday meal.
• Perfect Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with a variety of Mexican or Latin-inspired main courses, adding a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside:
  • Pan Seared Cilantro Lime Chicken for a lean and flavorful protein.
  • Chuck Roast Carne Asada as a fresh counterpoint to rich grilled meats.
  • Flautas de Pollo, offering a vibrant freshness to crispy rolled tacos.
  • Croquetas de Atún, complementing the savory tuna patties with its bright flavors.
• Taco Topping: Use it as a fresh and chunky topping for fish tacos, chicken tacos, or even vegetarian bean tacos.
• Grain Bowl Addition: Incorporate it into a wholesome grain bowl with quinoa, brown rice, or farro, adding a boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Potlucks and Picnics: Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a guaranteed hit at gatherings.

Storing Leftovers & Making Ahead

While this Ensalada de Camote is best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made, especially due to the avocado, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The lime juice helps significantly in preventing the avocado from browning too quickly, but its texture might soften slightly overnight.

If you wish to prepare components ahead of time, you can:

• Roast the sweet potatoes: Roast them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature or gently warm them before assembling the salad.
• Prep other vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the cilantro. Store them separately in the refrigerator.
• Assemble just before serving: To maintain optimal freshness and texture, dice the avocado and squeeze the lime juice, then combine all ingredients just before you plan to serve. This minimizes avocado browning and keeps the salad at its best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad spicy?

Absolutely! To add a kick, you can finely mince a jalapeño or serrano pepper and mix it into the salad. For a milder heat, a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can be added to the dressing.

What kind of sweet potatoes should I use?

Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (like Garnet or Jewel varieties) are common and work wonderfully, providing a classic sweet flavor and vibrant color. Japanese sweet potatoes, with their purple skin and creamy white flesh, offer a slightly nuttier flavor and denser texture if you want to experiment.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning in the salad?

The best way to prevent avocado browning is to add plenty of fresh lime juice and mix it in just before serving. If you must prepare it ahead, you can store the salad in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the salad to minimize air exposure. While it helps, for the best texture and color, fresh is always preferred.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

While the salad is best fresh, you can meal prep components. Roast the sweet potatoes and chop the cherry tomatoes and cilantro in advance. Store them separately. On the day you plan to eat, dice and add the avocado, squeeze the lime juice, season, and toss. This way, you get the freshest possible experience.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! This salad is very adaptable. Diced red bell peppers can add crunch and sweetness, thinly sliced red onion offers a sharp contrast, or even corn (fresh or roasted) would be a delicious addition for extra texture and color.

I truly hope you enjoy this delightful Ensalada de Camote as much as my family and I do! If you try this recipe, please leave me a comment with a star rating below. Your feedback means the world to me! Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest to stay in touch for more delicious Latin-inspired recipes, and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive content and updates.

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Looking for other fresh and flavorful side dish recipes to complement your meals? Be sure to explore these other fantastic options:

Recipe Card

Originally published November 6, 2018. Updated photos and post July 2022 and May 2025.