These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are juicy and full of flavor! The fresh cilantro and zesty lime make them a true crowd-pleaser.
Whenever I make them, my family can’t resist coming back for seconds. They’re the perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, grilling gives them a yummy char that everyone loves!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, providing a naturally sweet base. If you can’t find them, butternut squash or regular potatoes could work, though they will change the flavor and texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try swapping it for parsley or basils, though the taste will be different. I’ve learned that fresh herbs really boost the dish’s freshness!
Lime: The lime zest and juice provide acidity. If you’re out, lemon can serve as a great substitute. It’s slightly different, but still delicious. I always keep some on hand for a flavor lift.
Olive Oil: This helps with grilling and adds richness. You can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil for a similar effect. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its flavor!
Garlic Powder & Cumin: These spices offer depth to the dish. If needed, feel free to swap garlic powder with fresh minced garlic and, if you don’t have cumin, try chili powder or smoked paprika for a different profile.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Getting sweet potatoes just right on the grill is important for the best texture and flavor. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat the grill well before adding the sweet potatoes. Medium-high heat helps them cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into consistent wedges for even cooking. This helps them soften at the same rate.
- Once marinated, let the excess marinade drip off before grilling. This prevents flare-ups and gets those lovely grill marks.
- Monitor the cooking time closely. They usually take 5-7 minutes per side. You can check for tenderness with a fork; they should be soft inside.
Grilling is a fantastic way to bring out the natural sweetness and smoky flavor in the sweet potatoes. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping and marinating the sweet potatoes, and then about 10-14 minutes grilling them. It’s a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help achieve those perfect grill marks and ensure your sweet potatoes cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes well to get rid of any dirt. Then, slice them into wedges that are about 1/2 inch thick. This size will help them cook quickly and evenly on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This marinade is what will give your sweet potatoes that awesome flavor!
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around gently until they are all evenly coated. Make sure every wedge is covered in that tasty mixture!
5. Let Them Marinate:
Let your sweet potatoes marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those great flavors. If you have time, letting them sit in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour will really enhance the taste.
6. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the marinated sweet potato wedges on the grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once the wedges are cooked, take them off the grill and sprinkle the chopped cilantro over them for a fresh burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes immediately, with optional lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness and flavor, you can substitute them with other varieties like Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly, so check for tenderness before removing them from the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh parsley for a milder flavor, or even fresh mint for a refreshing twist. Each herb will bring a unique taste to the dish, so feel free to experiment!
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Absolutely! You can slice the sweet potatoes and prepare the marinade ahead of time. Just keep the wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, so they’re ready to grill when you are.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a grill, or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also add a splash of lime juice to freshen up the flavors!
