These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty combination of sweet and zesty flavors. They’re perfect for a cookout or a fun side dish for any meal!
Honestly, every bite is like a mini flavor party! I love how the lime freshens up the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Pair them with some tacos, and you’re in for a treat! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. If you can’t find them, yams can be a good alternative for a slightly different flavor and texture. I love the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes that pairs so well with lime.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil would work too. I prefer olive oil for its fruity flavor, but it’s great to know substitutes are available!
Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh is key here for that zesty punch! If fresh limes aren’t on hand, bottled lime juice can be used, but make sure it’s the pure kind without added preservatives. Both the juice and zest brighten up the potatoes.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a lovely freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions could work as substitutes, though the flavor will change slightly. I find cilantro adds a vibrant touch that complements the dish well!
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Grilling sweet potatoes takes some technique for achieving tender, flavorful wedges. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into wedges about 1/2 inch thick; thinner slices may burn, while thicker ones might not cook through.
- Marinate well! Let the sweet potato wedges soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes if time allows. This boosts flavor.
- Place the marinated wedges on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.
Tip: Look for nice grill marks; they add to the flavor! Let them rest for a minute before serving to enhance their taste further. Enjoy!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus around 10 minutes for grilling. In total, it will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick, tasty, and perfect for a summer BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat. This helps give your sweet potatoes nice grill marks and a perfect cook.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Then, slice them into wedges that are about 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to blend those delicious flavors!
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Take the sweet potato wedges and toss them in the marinade until they are all nicely coated. Make sure every piece gets that zesty goodness!
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the marinated sweet potatoes directly on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to develop nice grill marks and become tender. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they are done, take them off the grill. If you like, you can garnish them with a little extra cilantro for added freshness. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Olive Oil Substitutes?
Absolutely! If you don’t have olive oil, you can use canola oil, avocado oil, or melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor. Just use the same amount as specified in the recipe!
Are There Any Alternatives to Fresh Cilantro?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder taste. If you want to try something bolder, fresh mint can also add a refreshing twist.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Once cooled, store your leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or for extra crispiness, place them back on the grill for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Sure! You can slice and marinate the sweet potatoes a few hours ahead of grilling. Just cover them in the marinade and let them sit in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This can help enhance the flavors even more!
