These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are bursting with fresh flavor! The sweet potatoes are perfectly tender and lightly charred, making them the star of any meal.
Honestly, I can’t resist pairing them with tacos or just snacking on them straight off the grill. They’re like little bites of sunshine! ☀️
Making them is a breeze! Just slice, marinate, and grill. They’re a fun and tasty addition to any dinner table, and your friends will love them too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star here, bringing both sweetness and nutrition. If you can’t find them, butternut squash can be a good alternative, though cooking times may vary.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a milder substitute that still offers a fresh green touch.
Olive Oil: This helps to create a lovely, crisp texture when grilling. You can swap it for avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or a different flavor.
Lime Juice & Zest: The zing from lime juice makes these potatoes pop. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice works too, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor. Fresh minced garlic could also be used, but be careful as it can burn on the grill!
How do I Properly Marinate the Sweet Potatoes?
Marinating sweet potatoes helps them soak up all those tasty flavors. Start by mixing your marinade ingredients in a bowl before adding the wedges. Toss them to ensure every piece is coated well. Letting them sit for 15-20 minutes really makes a difference in flavor.
- Make sure the oil and seasoning mix well to create a flavorful coating.
- Use a zip-lock bag if you prefer; just seal it and shake until everything’s coated.
- Remember that the longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become, but even a short time works well.
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to grill. Altogether, you’ll need around 25-30 minutes to enjoy these delicious grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your grill to a medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. While the grill heats up, wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Then, cut them into wedges that are about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so everything is combined. Next, add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl and toss them gently in the marinade until they are evenly coated. For the best flavor, let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes have marinated, carefully place the wedges directly on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have those beautiful grill marks. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
4. Finish and Serve:
After grilling, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and sprinkle with the chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing. Enjoy your tasty grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a delicious sweetness and texture, you can substitute with regular potatoes like Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into similar-sized wedges and adjust the grilling time as they may cook faster. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t get too soft.
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
To store leftovers, allow the grilled sweet potatoes to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat them on the grill or in an oven to retain their crispiness.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Just mix the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a jar and store it in the fridge. It will last for about a week, so you can enjoy it with other veggies too!
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Sweet Potatoes?
These grilled sweet potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes! They make a great side for grilled meats or fish and can also be served as a tasty addition to salads or grain bowls. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze of tanginess right before serving!
