These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are your new favorite side! They’re sweet, zesty, and have a fresh burst of flavor from the cilantro and lime.
Trust me, they steal the spotlight at any meal! I love serving them with burgers or at barbecues. You won’t believe how easy they are to make—just grill, season, and enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the heart of the dish! Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes. If unavailable, you can swap in butternut squash or regular potatoes; they will change the flavor slightly but still taste great.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a substitute, although it won’t have the same zing. You can also try basil for a different twist!
Lime: Fresh lime juice is key here for freshness. If limes are hard to find, lemon juice can be a good stand-in. The flavor will differ, but it’ll still be delicious!
Olive Oil: This oil enhances grilling. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil can be a fantastic option. It has a nice flavor and a high smoke point, perfect for grilling!
Ground Cumin & Garlic Powder: These spices add depth. If you’re out of cumin, smoked paprika or chili powder can add a nice warmth. For garlic powder, fresh minced garlic works, too—just adjust the amount to taste.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with the right steps, you will have tasty results! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by slicing the sweet potatoes into 1/2 inch thick wedges or rounds. This size helps them cook evenly on the grill.
- The marinade is essential! Make sure to coat them well so they can absorb those lovely flavors.
- Let them marinate for 20 minutes — this step is crucial for flavor. You can even marinate them longer in the fridge if you wish.
- For grilling, preheat to medium-high heat, and don’t overcrowd the grill; give them space for even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Watch the cooking time! Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side; check for tenderness with a fork).
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for marinating. Grilling will take another 10 minutes. In total, plan for around 40 minutes from start to finish before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill and Sweet Potatoes:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly. While the grill is heating up, peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into wedges or rounds that are about 1/2 inch thick. Keeping them uniform helps them cook at the same rate!
2. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade is what will give your sweet potatoes a burst of flavor. Make sure it’s mixed well!
3. Marinating the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to make sure all the pieces are coated evenly. Let them sit and soak up the flavors for at least 20 minutes. This step makes a big difference!
4. Grilling the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes are marinated, place them on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be tender and have beautiful grill marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Final Touches and Serving:
When the sweet potatoes are done grilling, take them off the heat. Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star here, you can also use regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary; regular potatoes might take a bit longer to become tender on the grill.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you need a substitute for olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil work great as alternatives. You can also use melted coconut oil, but keep in mind it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before you add the sweet potatoes to ensure everything is well mixed!
