Grilled sweet potatoes are a wonderful side dish that brings out their natural sweetness. With a hint of smoky flavor from the grill, they’re both tasty and colorful!
These sweet potatoes are super easy to make. I love tossing them witholive oil and spices, then letting the grill do its magic. They’re perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! You can use any variety, but the orange-fleshed ones tend to be sweeter and creamier. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, try using regular potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve that nice char on the grill. If you want a different taste, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can work as substitutes here.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to adjust based on your taste. Garlic powder and paprika are optional, but they enhance the flavor beautifully. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh minced garlic works too, or try onion powder for a unique twist.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or thyme for garnish because they add a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have these, consider using basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with a few pointers, you can get them just right!
- Make sure the sweet potato slices are even in thickness (1/4 inch) so they cook uniformly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high, which helps create those lovely grill marks and avoids sticking.
- Oil your grill grates if not using a grilling basket to prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking.
- Pay close attention to the grilling time—flip them halfway through, and adjust as needed. They should be tender and have a slight char for the best flavor.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for grilling. All in all, you can have delicious grilled sweet potatoes ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and warm, which is perfect for grilling the sweet potatoes!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Once they’re clean, slice them into even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly on the grill.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if you’re using it). Mix well until all the slices are nicely coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the seasoned sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates or use a grilling basket if you have one. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be tender and have those lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time if necessary, especially if your slices are a bit thicker!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once they’re done grilling, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a beautiful touch. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or a delightful snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While sweet potatoes are the star here, you can also use regular potatoes, Yukon golds, or even purple potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the potato type and thickness of the slices. Always ensure they are tender before removing from the grill!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, or reheat them in the microwave for quick convenience.
Can I Make These Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the sweet potatoes by cutting and tossing them in olive oil and seasonings a few hours before grilling. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. This way, they’ll absorb the flavors, and it’ll save you some time!
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
The sky’s the limit on seasonings! Feel free to experiment with cumin, chili powder, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy flavor. Just be mindful of the quantities, so they don’t overpower the natural sweetness of the potatoes!
