These grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that brings out their natural sweetness. They get nice grill marks and a smoky flavor, making them super inviting!
Honestly, who can resist that caramelized goodness? I love topping them with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of cinnamon for a sweet twist. They always disappear fast at my BBQs! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Use large, firm sweet potatoes for this recipe. If you can’t find them, yams can be a good alternative, but they have a different texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor. If you’re avoiding olive oil, avocado oil or melted coconut oil work well too.
Paprika: While paprika adds a nice smoky touch, you can skip it or substitute with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. If you want to keep it simple, just salt and pepper are fine!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro are great garnishes, but you can also use basil or chives depending on your preference. You can even try a sprinkle of mint for a unique twist!
How Do You Grill Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be an easy process, but attention to detail makes them shine. Here are key points to ensure your sweet potatoes turn out beautifully every time.
- Slice Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Aim for 1/4 inch thick slices for consistent cooking. Thicker slices may take longer and can be hard to cook through.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is at medium heat, around 400°F (200°C), to cook the potatoes thoroughly without burning.
- Keep an Eye on Them: Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, turning them once for those appealing grill marks. They should be fork-tender but not mushy.
- Use a Grilling Basket: If you’re worried about the slices falling through the grates, consider using a grilling basket. It makes flipping easier!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 8 minutes for grilling. That’s just 18 minutes in total to enjoy these delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and warm for grilling!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. It’s important to keep the slices the same thickness for even cooking.
3. Toss and Season:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Make sure each slice is well coated in the tasty mixture.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Carefully place the sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates or use a grilling basket to make it easier to flip them. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become tender and have nice grill marks.
5. Serve:
Once cooked, gently remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and arrange them nicely on a serving platter. If you want, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. If you choose waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes, slice them thinner to ensure they cook through in the same time as sweet potatoes.
Can I Prepare Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Absolutely! You can slice the sweet potatoes and toss them with the olive oil and seasonings a few hours beforehand. Just store them in the fridge in an airtight container until you’re ready to grill. This makes for a quick and easy grilling session!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
To store leftovers, let the sweet potatoes cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to warm them up again.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Grilled sweet potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes! Serve them alongside grilled meats, tacos, or even atop a salad. They also make a delicious addition to a veggie platter.
