These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! The mix of zesty lime and fresh cilantro makes these spuds bright and delightful. Perfect for a side dish or a healthy snack!
Whenever I make these sweet potatoes, my family can’t resist them! They always disappear quickly, and I can’t blame them. Just grill, season, and enjoy the yummy flavors together! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with lime. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps in grilling and adds richness. You can substitute it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or coconut oil for a hint of sweetness.
Lime Juice & Zest: They brighten up the dish! If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always best. For a different twist, you can use lemon juice.
Cilantro: This herb gives a fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute, or you can skip it altogether. Scallions also add a nice fresh touch.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve that perfect tenderness and those beautiful grill marks. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill well; medium-high heat is ideal to get a good sear.
- Make sure to coat the sweet potatoes evenly in the marinade. This helps them cook better and prevents sticking.
- Let the wedges marinate for at least 15 minutes; this boosts the flavor.
- Grill for 4-6 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary based on your grill.
- Use a grill basket if worried about pieces falling through. It helps keep everything contained and makes flipping easier!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 15 minutes to grill, making it a great option for a quick and tasty side dish or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to blend everything well until it’s beautifully combined.
3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure each wedge is coated evenly with the delightful mix. This is where the flavor begins!
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Let the sweet potatoes sit and marinate for at least 15 minutes. This will help them absorb all those wonderful flavors.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once marinated, carefully place the sweet potato wedges directly onto the grill. Grill them for about 4-6 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and have those lovely grill marks that make them look appetizing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, vibrant flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can use regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust the grilling time, as they may take a few extra minutes to become tender.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No worries! You can substitute chopped parsley or even mint for a different flavor profile. If you want to keep it simple, you can also skip the herbs altogether or use a sprinkle of dried herbs instead.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Let any leftovers cool down, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back on the grill for a few minutes or put them in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian and vegan-friendly as is! Just make sure to use a vegan-approved olive oil. These grilled sweet potatoes make a perfect side dish or even a main when paired with other veggies or grains.
