Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty side that brings a sweet and smoky flavor to any meal. Their bright orange color is sure to brighten your plate, too!
There’s something fun about making these: you just slice, season, and grill! They’re great on their own or tossed in a salad for extra yumminess. I love the crispy edges! 🥔🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! They should be firm and not too large for even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you could swap them with regular potatoes or butternut squash. However, sweet potatoes bring a unique sweetness.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps to crisp up the potatoes on the grill. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil is a fantastic option due to its high smoke point. You could also use melted coconut oil for a different twist.
Garlic Powder: This enhances the taste without the fuss of fresh garlic. For a fresh alternative, you could use minced garlic (1 clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of powder). If you need a garlic-free version, try onion powder instead!
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, or you can even use chili powder for a bit of heat. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Fresh Herbs: They add a fresh finish. I love using parsley or cilantro, but you could also use dill or chives based on your preference. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs like thyme or basil can work well too.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling sweet potatoes can sometimes be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! The key steps are as follows:
- Preparation: Ensure your sweet potato rounds are evenly sliced at 1/4-inch thick. This helps them cook through at the same time.
- Coat Properly: Don’t skimp on the olive oil. It prevents sticking and promotes even browning. Make sure all slices are well-coated with the spice mix.
- Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat is essential. If it’s too low, they’ll turn mushy; too high might burn them. Aim for about 400°F!
- Turn Carefully: Use tongs to flip them gently so they don’t fall apart. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, until tender.
With these steps, you’ll have beautifully grilled sweet potatoes every time!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to grill, depending on your grill and how many batches you need. So, in about 20-25 minutes, you can have delicious grilled sweet potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by getting your grill nice and hot! Preheat it to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F. This will help give your sweet potatoes those beautiful grill marks and a delicious smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a little mix with a spoon to combine everything. Now add the sliced sweet potatoes. Toss them gently until they are all coated evenly in the oil and spices. This makes them flavorful and helps them grill perfectly!
3. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Time to hit the grill! Place the coated sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the grill grate. Make sure they’re not overlapping so they cook evenly. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to become tender and have those lovely grill marks. If your grill is small, you may need to do this in batches.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Once the sweet potatoes are grilled to perfection, take them off the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy your tasty grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a wonderful flavor, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even zucchini. Just keep in mind that regular potatoes may take a bit longer to cook, and zucchini will grill faster, so adjust your cooking times accordingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the sweet potatoes by slicing and coating them in olive oil and spices ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to grill, just take them out and grill as directed, adding a minute or two to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a hot grill or in a skillet for a few minutes to warm through and regain some crispness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them a bit soggy!
Can I Modify the Seasoning?
Of course! Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey before grilling can enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes!
