These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are bursting with flavor! The smoky grill adds a lovely char, while the zesty lime and fresh cilantro make each bite refreshing.
Honestly, who knew sweet potatoes could be this fun? I love serving them at barbecues—everyone goes back for seconds, and I can’t blame them! They’re a colorful side that brightens up any plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness complements the lime and cilantro perfectly. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes, but the flavor will be different!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could use parsley or basil as substitutes. I personally love cilantro, but I know it can be divisive!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is best for a zesty kick. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work as a substitute, giving a different but still refreshing taste.
Olive Oil: This keeps the sweet potatoes moist while grilling. If you want a different flavor, consider using avocado oil or melted coconut oil instead.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Grilling sweet potatoes may seem tricky at first, but with the right techniques, you’ll get those perfect char marks! Here’s how:
- **Slice Evenly:** Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform wedges or thick rounds for even cooking.
- **Marinate Well:** Ensure you coat the sweet potatoes evenly with the marinade, allowing them to soak in flavors for at least 15 minutes.
- **Preheat the Grill:** Get your grill nice and hot before placing the sweet potatoes on it. Medium heat works best to ensure they cook through without burning.
- **Monitor Cooking Time:** Grill the wedges for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning and check for tenderness by piercing with a fork.
- **Garnish Freshly:** Sprinkle with chopped cilantro right before serving to keep it vibrant and fragrant.
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Marinade:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and marinating, then about 15 minutes grilling. It’s a quick and tasty side dish or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This usually takes about 10 minutes, so get that going first!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes well, then peel them. Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges or thick rounds, whichever shape you prefer for grilling. This makes them easier to handle on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, squeeze the juice of the two limes. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to make sure all the pieces are evenly coated. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once marinated, carefully place the sweet potato wedges on the grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be tender and have nice grill marks on them. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once they’re cooked to perfection, take the sweet potatoes off the grill. Sprinkle them with the freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side for added zest. Enjoy your Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Regular potatoes might take a bit longer to cook, depending on their size. Just ensure they’re tender and have nice grill marks before removing them from the grill.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can use fresh parsley as an alternative. While the flavor will differ slightly, it will still add a fresh herbaceous note to the dish. If using dried herbs, use about one-third of the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can slice and marinate the sweet potatoes a few hours in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This will enhance the flavors as they soak in the marinade.
How Do I Store Leftover 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 warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil to revive their flavor and texture.
