Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty treat that brings out their natural sweetness! They get a lovely smoky flavor and a nice char when cooked on the grill.
These sweet potatoes are as easy to make as they are delicious. Just slice them up, season, and let the grill work its magic. I love serving them with a sprinkle of salt—so good!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, evenly-sized sweet potatoes for consistent cooking. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash is a good alternative, giving a similar sweetness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well too! Both oils help to achieve a nice texture on the grill.
Garlic Powder: This brings great flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. If you prefer fresh, use about 1 clove of minced garlic instead, but be cautious of burning it on the grill.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice depth and smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro are lovely for garnish, but feel free to use basil or dill for a twist. They brighten up the dish and add a fresh touch.
How Do You Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes requires a little attention to detail, especially to ensure they cook evenly. The key is slicing them uniformly and keeping an eye on them while they grill.
- Start by preheating the grill to medium heat; this helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds of about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from burning while others are undercooked.
- Brush or toss the sweet potatoes in the marinade right before grilling to keep them flavorful and moist.
- Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, but check them frequently. If you notice they’re getting too dark, move them to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat slightly.
Following these steps will help you achieve tender, flavorful grilled sweet potatoes every time!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to grill. In total, you can have your delicious grilled sweet potatoes ready in about 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This helps to get those lovely grill marks and ensures even cooking!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel your sweet potatoes. After peeling, slice them into uniform rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly on the grill.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely mixed to create your marinade.
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Add your sliced sweet potatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss them until each slice is evenly coated. You want every piece to soak up that flavor!
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to place the sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for those beautiful grill marks and make sure they’re tender. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the top for extra flavor and a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your warm, delicious grilled sweet potatoes as a delightful side dish or snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular potatoes or even zucchini for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; regular potatoes might take a bit longer to become tender, while zucchini will cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can use other oils like avocado oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. Just make sure to use one that has a high smoke point for grilling, so your sweet potatoes don’t burn.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back on the grill for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave. Add a little drizzle of olive oil if they seem dry!
Can I Marinate the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can! Marinate the sweet potato slices in the mix for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling, so they cook evenly.
