These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a fun and tasty side dish. They’re perfectly sweet, with a zesty kick from lime and fresh cilantro that brightens up your meal.
I love making these for BBQs; they always make my friends smile! Just throw them on the grill, and voilà—healthy and delicious! Plus, who can resist that smoky flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! You can use any variety, but I prefer the orange-fleshed ones for their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, regular potatoes could work, just note they will change the flavor profile!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes on the grill. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is a great substitute since it’s also high in healthy fats and has a mild flavor.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh is best for this recipe! If limes aren’t available, try using lemon juice and zest. It will give a different taste but still a refreshing kick!
Cilantro: This herb really brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil can be tasty alternatives, though they change the overall flavor.
Cumin: This spice adds warm, earthy notes. If you need a change, smoked paprika or chili powder can add a fun twist!
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with the right technique, they come out perfectly tender and flavorful!
- Preheat your grill to medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into even wedges or rounds, about 1/2 inch thick to help them cook through quickly.
- Marinating the sweet potatoes for at least 15 minutes helps infuse flavor; longer is even better, but don’t go overboard, or they may get too soft.
- While grilling, flip them halfway through for nice grill marks and to prevent burning.
- Check for tenderness by using a fork; they’re done when easily pierced!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (approximately 2 limes)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-30 minutes to cook, including marinating time. You’ll have a tasty side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will make sure your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to clean them well. Then, slice them into wedges or rounds, about 1/2 inch thick. This size works great for grilling!
3. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mix is fragrant and full of flavor!
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Place your sweet potato wedges into the marinade and toss them around until they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes. This step really helps enhance the flavor!
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once your potatoes are marinated, place them on the hot grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be tender and have nice grill marks when done.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some additional chopped cilantro on top for a fresh touch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Can I Use Another Type of Potato for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While sweet potatoes add a unique flavor, you can use regular potatoes or even Yukon Golds. Just keep in mind that cooking times may differ, so make sure to check for tenderness while grilling.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle or separate.
What Else Can I Add to the Marinade for Extra Flavor?
For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder or a bit of honey for sweetness. You could also throw in some diced jalapeños if you like it spicy!
