Grilled sweet potatoes are a wonderful side dish that brings out their natural sweetness. Just slice them, toss with a bit of oil, and throw them on the grill!
These bright orange gems add a pop of color to your plate, and they smell amazing while cooking. I love enjoying them with a sprinkle of salt! 🍠😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, unblemished ones for the best flavor. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work as substitutes, though flavor profiles will change.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if preferred. Just note that coconut oil may impart some sweetness.
Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: Both are optional but elevate the flavor! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a different kick. Don’t like garlic? Try onion powder instead!
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or cilantro for garnish. If you’re not a fan of those, consider using chives or even a sprinkle of green onions for a fresh touch.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with the right prep and technique, you’ll get tender, flavorful results. Here’s how to make it successful:
- Slice Evenly: Ensure sweet potatoes are cut into 1/4 inch rounds. This helps them cook evenly on the grill.
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). This helps with getting nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Coat Well: Toss the slices well with olive oil and seasonings to prevent drying out and to enhance flavor.
- Watch the Timing: Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on your grill’s heat.
Grilling is about practice, so don’t be discouraged if it’s not perfect the first time! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and cooking methods. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled sweet potato recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes on the grill. In total, you can have them ready and served in about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and healthy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat—about 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Carefully wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Once they’re clean, slice them into even rounds that are about ¼ inch thick. This thickness will help them cook properly without burning.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder and smoked paprika. Make sure each slice is nicely coated with the mix for the best flavor!
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potato slices directly on the hot grill grates. Close the lid and let them grill for about 5-7 minutes. This will create a nice sear. After that time, flip the slices using tongs and grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and have those beautiful grill marks.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once done, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. They’ll be hot, so give them a moment!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the sweet potatoes for a lovely touch. Serve them warm and enjoy your tasty grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use regular potatoes or even purple potatoes for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you grill.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes Without a Grill?
No grill? No problem! You can roast your sweet potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until tender. Just toss the slices with olive oil and seasonings, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave, and consider adding a drizzle of olive oil to revive their flavor!
Can I Add Different Seasonings?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different spices according to your taste. Cumin, chili powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can make for delicious variations. Just keep the ratios similar to ensure they’re well-coated!
