These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! They are slightly sweet, zesty from the lime, and packed with fresh cilantro. Perfect for summer barbecues!
Whenever I make them, I can’t help but snack on the leftovers! Adding a sprinkle of feta on top just takes it to the next level. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: I love using large sweet potatoes for their creaminess and natural sweetness. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. If you prefer a lighter option, avocado oil works well. You could also use canola oil, but it has a milder flavor.
Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the best flavor. In a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but it won’t taste as bright. If you want a twist, lemon juice is a good substitute!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a unique flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a nice alternative that still adds freshness, though the taste will be different.
Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth, but if you want a different flavor, try smoked paprika for a smoky touch or coriander for a citrus note.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on My Sweet Potatoes?
Grill marks are all about technique. Here are some tips to get those beautiful charred lines and ensure cooking perfection:
- Make sure your grill is hot, around medium-high heat. This helps achieve good sear marks.
- Soak the sweet potato wedges in the marinade for 15-30 minutes. This enhances flavor and helps them cook more evenly.
- Place the wedges perpendicular to the grill grates. This positioning not only helps achieve those attractive grill marks but also prevents smaller pieces from falling through.
- After the first 3-5 minutes, don’t move the wedges around. Flip them only once so they can develop those classic grill marks.
Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and 10-15 minutes for grilling. Including marinating time, you can expect to spend around 30-45 minutes from start to finish making these delicious grilled sweet potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your sweet potatoes get a nice char while cooking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into wedges about 1/2 inch thick. The wedges should be thick enough to hold up on the grill and not fall apart.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This tasty marinade will give your sweet potatoes a burst of flavor!
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the marinade and toss them until they are evenly coated. Let them sit in the marinade for about 15-30 minutes. This step helps the flavors soak in beautifully.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once everything is prepped and the grill is hot, place the marinated sweet potato wedges on the grill. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the flavors to settle. Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped cilantro and lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes or even Yukon golds, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Regular potatoes will generally take a little longer to tenderize on the grill, so keep an eye on them.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! All the ingredients, including the olive oil and lime juice, are plant-based. Just make sure any additional toppings or sides you choose to serve alongside are also vegan.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to grill, simply add the sweet potato wedges to the marinade and let them sit to absorb those delicious flavors!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet to maintain their texture and warmth. You might need to add a little sprinkle of lime juice to refresh the flavor!
