These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty addition to any meal! With a bright flavor from lime and a hint of fresh cilantro, they’re both healthy and delicious.
I love how easy they are to make on the grill! Pair them with your favorite dish for a yummy side, or enjoy them as a snack. You’ll want to make extra—trust me, they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! They give a sweet and creamy texture. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work in a pinch, but will change the flavor slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or basil can substitute, though it won’t be quite the same. Some people also like to use dried cilantro, but fresh is always better!
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice gives a tangy kick and pairs wonderfully with sweet potatoes. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice is a great substitute. Zest adds extra flavor, so try to include it if possible. Grate the outer skin lightly to avoid the bitter white pith.
Olive Oil: Use good-quality olive oil for a rich flavor. You could also use avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different taste. However, I recommend sticking to it if you can, as it complements the other flavors nicely.
How Do You Grill Sweet Potatoes for the Best Flavor?
Grilling sweet potatoes can seem tricky, but with the right technique, it’s super simple! The key is marinating and cooking them just the right way. Here’s how to nail this step:
- Start by cutting the sweet potatoes into wedges. Keeping them uniform in size helps them cook evenly.
- Mix the marinade well and coat the wedges thoroughly. Letting them sit for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor.
- Grill at medium-high heat, flipping halfway to get those perfect grill marks. Pay attention to them—they can cook quickly!
After grilling, let them rest for a minute before serving to help keep them moist. Enjoying them with lemon wedges adds a tasty touch!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Additional fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation, including marinating the sweet potatoes, and then another 10-14 minutes for grilling. Easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will make sure it’s hot enough to give your sweet potatoes those delicious grill marks.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined. This will be the tasty marinade for your sweet potatoes!
3. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Now, add the sweet potato wedges into the marinade. Toss them gently until they are nicely coated with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes so they absorb all those wonderful flavors.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes have marinated, place them directly on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for them to be tender and to have some beautiful grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Top with some additional chopped cilantro for a fresh look, and don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges on the side.
6. Delight in Your Creation:
Now it’s time to enjoy your Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes as a scrumptious side dish! Perfect for any meal—you’re going to love them!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; regular potatoes might take a bit longer to become tender, while squash will cook faster.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before adding your sweet potatoes to ensure everything is well combined.
How 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 back on the grill for a few minutes or sauté them in a pan until warmed through. They also taste great cold in salads!
Can I Bake These Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can definitely bake the sweet potatoes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the marinated wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and tender.
