These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! The sweet potatoes are tender and sweet, with a zesty kick from the lime and fresh cilantro. Yum!
I’ve made these for BBQs, and they always get gobbled up quickly. They’re a fun way to enjoy sweet potatoes—and who doesn’t love a little extra zing in their side dish? 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Large sweet potatoes provide a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or even regular potatoes, though the taste will change slightly.
Olive Oil: Olive oil works great for grilling due to its flavor. For a different taste, you could substitute it with avocado oil, which has a high smoke point, making it perfect for grilling.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice can be a good substitute. It will give you that zing you’re looking for.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using parsley or even basil for a different twist. Both will still taste great!
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Are Grilled Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky. The key is ensuring they’re tender without burning. Start by cutting them into evenly sized wedges or slices, about 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.
- After cutting, soak the wedges in water for about 10 minutes to help them cook through more easily on the grill.
- Don’t skip marinating—they benefit hugely from the olive oil and spices, enhancing their flavor.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling. Flip them halfway through and watch for grill marks to know when to turn them!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for marinating. You’ll also spend about 15 minutes grilling, making the total time around 40 minutes. It’s a tasty and healthy side that you can enjoy with your summer meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will help your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Then, cut them into wedges or slices that are about 1/2 inch thick. Making them uniform in size helps them cook evenly on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so it’s combined into a lovely marinade.
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the marinade and toss them gently until they are well coated. Let the sweet potatoes marinate for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes have marinated, carefully place them on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and you see nice grill marks. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the grilled sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, you can garnish them with some extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing. Enjoy your flavorful grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness, you can use regular potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness when grilling.
How Do I 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, pop them in the microwave or give them a quick toss on the grill again for a couple of minutes to warm through and get those grill marks back!
Can I Marinate the Sweet Potatoes Overnight?
Yes! Marinating overnight is a great way to intensify the flavors. Just be sure to keep them in the fridge to keep them fresh. When ready to grill, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil, as both will give a nice flavor and high smoke point for grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, just use vegetable oil! Just remember, olive oil does add a specific taste that you might miss if you switch it out.
