Grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! These sweet, vibrant potatoes are marinated in zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro, then grilled to perfection.
They have that nice smoky flavor and a little tang that makes them super yummy! I love serving them at picnics; they always disappear fast! 🍠💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: I use large sweet potatoes for their creaminess and sweetness. Yukon gold potatoes can be a great substitute if you want something similar but not as sweet.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds amazing flavor! If you’re not a fan, parsley works as an alternative, though the taste will differ. Some just sprinkle on green onions, and that can be nice too.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor. You can replace it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer. Both options add their unique twist.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, bottled lime juice will work, but it’s not the same. Lemon juice can also be a good substitute for a different zing!
Spices: Garlic powder adds simplicity and depth. If you want fresh, use minced garlic instead. Chili powder is optional, but it gives a nice kick. You can replace it with paprika for a milder heat.
How Do I Get the Best Grill Marks and Texture on Sweet Potatoes?
The secret lies in cutting them uniformly and ensuring they are well-marinated. Here’s how to achieve great grill marks:
- Cut sweet potatoes into even pieces, about 1/2-inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high; a hot grill is key for those beautiful marks.
- Marinate the wedges well for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors seep in and help with tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give them space to avoid steaming and instead encourage proper charring.
- Check for tenderness with a fork; they should pierce easily when done. Enjoy that texture!
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
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes preparing your sweet potatoes and marinating them, plus an additional 10-12 minutes grilling them to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and peel them. Next, cut them into wedges or rounds that are about 1/2-inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook nicely on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, and chili powder if you’re using it. Add a little salt and pepper, then mix everything together until well combined to create a tasty marinade.
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Toss the sweet potato wedges in the marinade, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once marinated, place the sweet potatoes on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They are done when they have nice grill marks and are soft enough to pierce with a fork.
6. Add Cilantro and Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill. Sprinkle them with the chopped cilantro for added freshness. Serve them warm, alongside lemon wedges for a little extra zesty flavor when you bite into them.
Enjoy your grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes! They make a wonderful side dish or a tasty snack.
Can I Use Yams Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute yams for sweet potatoes in this recipe! Keep in mind that yams may have a drier texture and different flavor, so you might want to adjust the cooking time and check for tenderness a bit earlier than you would with sweet potatoes.
How Long Can I Marinate the Sweet Potatoes?
You can marinate the sweet potatoes for up to 2 hours! Just be sure to keep them in the refrigerator during that time. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-20 minute marinade works well, too!
Can I Grill These Sweet Potatoes Indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or an indoor electric grill. Just make sure to preheat the pan and keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from an outdoor grill.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or enjoy cold as a salad topping!
