These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty twist on a classic side dish! They’re tender, smoky, and full of fresh flavors from the cilantro and tangy lime juice.
Honestly, these sweet potatoes make any meal feel special. Plus, who can resist that beautiful char? I love serving them with tacos—they make a perfect match!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Aim for firm, vibrant sweet potatoes for the best texture. If you’re in a pinch, you could swap them for regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This oil adds richness to the sweet potatoes, but you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you’d like an alternative flavor. Both oils work well on the grill!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a zesty kick. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, or you can leave it out entirely for a milder taste.
Lime Juice & Zest: This duo brightens the dish. If limes aren’t handy, lemon juice and zest work just as well for a slightly different citrus flavor. Use about the same amount.
Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth. If you don’t have cumin, coriander or smoked paprika can add unique flavors as well.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Just Right on the Grill?
The grilling technique makes a big difference in how your sweet potatoes turn out. Make sure to cut them into even, thick wedges so they cook evenly. Here are some tips to nail it:
- Make sure the grill is preheated to medium heat to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning—flip them when you see nice marks.
- If you want extra smokiness, try soaking the sweet potato wedges in water for 30 minutes before grilling; it helps them steam and get tender sooner.
Enjoy your time on the grill, and don’t forget to let the sweet potatoes marinate for those fantastic flavors!
Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, which includes marinating the sweet potatoes. Altogether, you’re looking at around 30 minutes before you enjoy these delicious grilled treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This ensures the sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those nice grill marks on them.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes carefully. Then, slice them into wedges about 1/2-inch thick. This size will help them cook well on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This simple mix will give your sweet potatoes a burst of flavor.
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them until everything is well-coated. It’s best to let them sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes have marinated, place them on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they become tender and have lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Garnish and Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill. Sprinkle them with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness. Serve them warm alongside lemon wedges for an extra burst of tangy flavor. Enjoy your tasty grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes! While sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly until they are tender.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No problem! If fresh cilantro isn’t available, you can use dried cilantro or parsley as a substitute. For dried cilantro, use about one tablespoon, but remember that the flavor will be less intense. Fresh parsley can provide a nice touch, albeit with a different taste.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the grill briefly to regain their delicious texture. You can also enjoy them cold in salads!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Just mix the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, and store it in the fridge. This will enhance the flavors and save you time during meal prep!
