Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that’s easy to make! Just slice them up, toss with olive oil and spices, then grill until they’re nice and tender. Yum!
The sweet, smoky flavor of these potatoes is sure to win you over. I love having them next to burgers or chicken—somehow they make everything taste better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish! Choose firm, unbruised sweet potatoes for the best flavor. You can swap them with regular potatoes if you prefer, but the taste and texture will change.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a milder substitute. I’ve even used mint for a different twist; it’s refreshing!
Olive Oil: It enhances the dish’s richness. For a lighter option, avocado oil is a great alternative. Both add nice flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can do the trick, though it will taste slightly different.
Chili Powder: It’s optional, but if you enjoy a bit of heat, paprika or cayenne pepper can be used instead. Adjust to your spice tolerance!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Getting those sweet potatoes perfectly grilled involves a few key steps. Start by cutting them into even pieces, about 1/2 inch thick, so they cook uniformly. Marinating them is essential, as it infuses great flavors.
- Once they’re coated in your marinade, let them sit for at least 15 minutes. This step really boosts the taste.
- When grilling, preheat to medium-high. This ensures they cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give each piece space so they can crisp up nicely. Aim for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
Keep an eye on them, and you’ll have sweet potatoes that are tender inside with a smoky, grilled flavor on the outside!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes total, which includes around 15 minutes for marinating the sweet potatoes. The grilling itself takes just about 10 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help give your sweet potatoes those nice grill marks and ensure they’re cooked through.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into wedges or rounds that are about 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and quickly on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add a burst of flavor to your sweet potatoes.
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them well until they are evenly coated. This step is important for getting that delicious flavor throughout.
5. Marinate for Flavors:
Let the sweet potatoes sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in and really enhances the taste when grilled.
6. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Carefully place the marinated sweet potatoes onto the preheated grill in a single layer. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have those lovely grill marks.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can try using regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a fresh kick, consider including diced jalapeños in the marinade or sprinkling some red pepper flakes before serving!
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cut the sweet potatoes and toss them in the marinade a few hours before grilling. Just make sure to store them in the fridge in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and let them come back to room temperature before grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the microwave or briefly sauté them on the stovetop for a few minutes, ensuring they’re warmed through and slightly crispy again!
