These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that brings bright flavors to your table. Their smoky aroma pairs perfectly with the fresh cilantro and tangy lime!
I’ll let you in on a little secret: I love making these on sunny days. They’re so easy to grill, and they always impress family and friends. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash can be a tasty alternative. Just be aware that butternut squash may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for grilling, but you could swap it with canola oil or avocado oil if you want a different flavor or extra health benefits. I personally enjoy the richness that olive oil brings, but it’s good to have options!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice works nicely too. I sometimes mix in a bit of orange juice for a sweeter touch—it adds a fun twist!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives this dish its unique taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute, or you could use fresh mint for a different flavor profile. I am a cilantro lover, but I know it’s not for everyone!
Ground Cumin: Cumin adds warmth and depth. If you don’t have it, a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder can bring a nice touch. I often toss in a bit of both if I’m feeling adventurous!
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes for the Best Texture?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky if you want them tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Here’s how to make it work:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even wedges, about 1-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. A hot grill helps get those nice grill marks and keeps the potatoes from sticking.
- Marinate for at least 15 minutes. This not only infuses flavor but also helps soften the sweet potatoes a bit before grilling.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Use tongs to flip them gently to keep them intact. You want that golden-brown color!
Trust me, the grilling will create a delicious combination of smoky and sweet flavors. Enjoy your grilling adventure!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 25 minutes. You’ll spend a little time slicing the sweet potatoes and mixing the marinade, and then just grill them until they’re deliciously tender!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook the sweet potatoes.
2. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes carefully to remove any dirt and skin. Once done, slice them into wedges that are about 1-inch thick. The consistent thickness will help them cook evenly.
3. Mixing the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This marinade will give the sweet potatoes a delicious flavor!
4. Marinating the Sweet Potatoes:
Take your sweet potato wedges and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around until they are well coated with the mixture. Let them sit and marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all those yummy flavors.
5. Grilling the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the marinated sweet potato wedges on the grill. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they’re tender and have lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Serving Your Dish:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with some extra chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in while your grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are warm! Enjoy this flavorful dish as a perfect side or a light meal on their own!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a wonderful sweetness, you can substitute regular potatoes or even butternut squash if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may alter the cooking time slightly, so check for tenderness as you grill them.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the sweet potatoes and marinate them up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This also enhances the flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the microwave, or for extra crispiness, place them in a hot skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of This Recipe?
Yes! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. For a milder version, simply omit the garlic and herbs, or use less according to your taste.
