These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are colorful, tasty, and super easy to make! The combination of the smoky grill with bright cilantro and zesty lime brings out the best flavors.
Whenever I make these, my guests rave about how delicious they are. They’re perfect for any barbecue or as a fun side dish during the week. Who knew sweet potatoes could be so exciting? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I love their natural sweetness and creamy texture once grilled. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work, but adjust grilling time as sweet potatoes cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil or melted coconut oil are great alternatives. They can also add a unique taste to the dish.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a wonderful brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be used instead for a fresh touch—just chop them finely!
Lime Juice & Zest: The lime juice gives the sweet potatoes a zesty kick. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice works fine, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika: These spices add depth to the flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika mixed with a pinch of cumin can give a nice touch. Fresh garlic can be used for a stronger flavor—just adjust the amount to avoid overpowering the dish!
How Can I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Get Perfectly Grilled?
Getting those sweet potatoes just right on the grill can be tricky, but some tips make it easier! Start by cutting the sweet potatoes into evenly-sized wedges to ensure they cook evenly. The marinade is key here. Give them some time to soak up the flavor for at least 15 minutes—it makes a big difference.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat so the sweet potatoes cook through without burning.
- Place the wedges on the grill and keep an eye on them. Turn them every few minutes to develop those beautiful grill marks.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, testing for tenderness with a fork. They’re ready when you can easily pierce through them.
Let them rest a minute after grilling, and then finish with fresh cilantro for that burst of color and flavor!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes for grilling. You’ll want to allow at least 15 minutes for the sweet potatoes to marinate in the flavorful mixture, making it a total of around 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before you add the sweet potatoes. This will help them grill perfectly!
2. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is combined well. This mixture is where all the flavor comes from!
3. Coating the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to your bowl of marinade. Gently toss them until every wedge is well-coated. This will ensure they soak up all the delicious flavors.
4. Marinating Time:
Let the sweet potatoes sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. This waiting period helps the flavors meld and really enhances the taste.
5. Grilling the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the grill is ready, place the marinated sweet potato wedges directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re tender and you can see nice grill marks on them. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Finishing Touches:
When the sweet potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of freshness.
7. Serving:
Serve the grilled sweet potatoes immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges on the side. These add an extra zing that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly. Dig in and enjoy your tasty grilled treat!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor, you can substitute regular potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just note that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness at the 10-15 minute mark when grilling.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro or don’t have it on hand, fresh parsley or green onions make great alternatives. They won’t offer the same flavor profile, but they’ll still add a nice touch. You can also skip the herbs altogether for a simpler dish!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to bring back some crispiness. Just be careful not to overcook them during reheating!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle. This is a great time-saver for busy days!
