These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that’s packed with flavor. The smoky grill adds a nice touch to the sweet and zesty vibe from the cilantro and lime!
It’s hard to resist that bright, fresh taste! I love serving these with barbecued chicken, and let’s be real, they’re perfect for sneaky snack raids straight from the grill! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for large, smooth sweet potatoes. If you don’t have them, butternut squash can be a nice alternative for a similar texture and sweetness.
Olive Oil: It adds great flavor and helps in grilling. If you want a different taste, avocado oil is a fantastic substitute due to its high smoke point.
Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. If limes are not available, lemon juice can work well, just keep in mind the taste will slightly change. I prefer using both juice and zest for layered flavor!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for a spicy kick. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can skip it or use smoked paprika for a different twist instead.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a wonderful finish. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute to keep things fresh.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes may seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, it becomes easy and enjoyable! The key is in the marinade and the grill technique.
- Make sure to cut your sweet potatoes into even-sized wedges or rounds; around 1/2 inch thick cooks best.
- Marinate them for at least 15 minutes. This not only helps flavor them but also softens them before grilling.
- Oil the grill grates before placing the sweet potatoes to avoid sticking.
- Grill each side for 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they feel tender to the touch.
Try to keep an eye on them as grilling times can vary based on your grill’s heat. It’s all about finding that sweet spot for perfect grilling!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
For The Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and another 15-20 minutes for marinating. Plus, you’ll spend around 10-15 minutes grilling. So, in total, you’re looking at around 35-45 minutes to prepare this delightful dish! Perfect for a summer barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your sweet potatoes will cook evenly and have nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes first and then cut them into wedges or rounds, aiming for about 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook through nicely and make them easy to eat.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, lime zest, cayenne pepper (if you want a little heat), salt, and black pepper. This marinade is what gives the sweet potatoes their delicious flavor!
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl. Toss them around to ensure they are all coated evenly in the marinade. Let them sit and soak up those flavors for about 15-20 minutes. If you have time, this step makes them even tastier!
5. Start Grilling:
Once your grill is hot, oil the grates a little to keep the sweet potatoes from sticking. Then, place your marinated sweet potatoes on the grill.
6. Grill Until Perfect:
Grill the sweet potatoes for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks, and they should be tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once grilled, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and sprinkle them with the chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh burst of flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled sweet potatoes warm and provide lemon wedges on the side for drizzling. Enjoy this zesty and flavorful dish! Great as a side or light meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular white or red potatoes for sweet potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of potato you use; test for tenderness with a fork while grilling.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No worries! If you’re not a fan of cilantro or don’t have any on hand, you can use fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of green onions for a different flavor. Dried herbs like cilantro or parsley will also work in a pinch, just adjust the quantity to about 1 tablespoon since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Store any leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheating option!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and spread the marinated sweet potato wedges on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and tender.
