Traditionally, sweet potatoes are served at the holidays, but why not enjoy them all winter long?

Not only do they taste like dessert, but they provide some surprising health benefits. Sweet potatoes are bursting with more beta-carotene than carrots.

They are filled with greater amounts of vitamins and minerals than a typical white potato, and provide a unique combination of being low-fat and rich in heart-healthy vitamin E.

Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and do not have any cracks, bruises or soft spots. They should be stored in a cool, dark and well-ventilated space — like a pantry — where they will keep fresh for up to 10 days.

Try these five simple methods for cooking sweet potatoes:

Boil

Simply peel the sweet potato and cut into chunks. Boil until tender – about 25 to 30 minutes.

Roast

Cut unpeeled sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil and herbs and roast at 375 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes, until tender.

Bake

Pierce the skin of each sweet potato in several places with a fork, and then bake for 15 minutes at 400 degrees F, followed by 45 to 60 minutes more at 375 degrees F. They should be placed on a baking tray since sticky syrup is often produced while baking.

Microwave

To cook, pierce the skin in several places and bake the whole potato on high for 5 to 9 minutes.

Grill

Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Grill until browned, about 4 minutes on each side.

Quick Serving Ideas

Sweet potatoes can be substituted for regular potatoes in many delicious side dishes, such as potato salad, or served as French fries or roasted, boiled, mashed and baked potatoes. Good flavors for seasoning sweet potatoes include orange, pineapple, apples, pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar and maple syrup. Here are some other ideas:

• Top Your Salad. Sweet potatoes make sweet salad toppings. Combine diced sweet potatoes, pineapple tidbits, apples, celery, and cashews. Serve over salad greens.

• Add a Twist to Your Sandwiches. Cut thin slices of cooked sweet potatoes and add to your favorite sandwich or wrap instead of tomatoes.

• A Crispy, Healthy Snack. Try munching on sweet potato chips. Thinly slice a large sweet potato and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until lightly browned and crisp.