Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty side that brings out their natural sweetness. You just slice them up, toss with some oil and spices, and let the grill do its magic!
These little gems have a slight caramelization that makes them extra yummy. Plus, grilling is a great way to enjoy them without much fuss. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! You can use medium-sized sweet potatoes or even the smaller ones for a quicker cooking time. If you need a change, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes, though they have different flavors.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re out of it, avocado oil is a wonderful substitute since it has a high smoke point and a mild taste. Feel free to use melted coconut oil for a different twist!
Garlic Powder: This optional ingredient gives a nice garlic kick. If you don’t have it, you can use fresh minced garlic, but reduce the amount since it’s stronger. A sprinkle of onion powder also works well.
Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smokiness. If you’re looking for something with more heat, use cayenne pepper instead. For a sweeter spice, try cinnamon for a new flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro brightens the dish. If you don’t have these on hand, consider using green onions or even a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness!
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Grill Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with some careful steps, you can get it just right. Follow these tips for perfectly grilled sweet potatoes!
- Slice evenly: Cut your sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This ensures even cooking and helps them get those beautiful grill marks.
- Toss well: Don’t skimp on mixing the slices with olive oil and seasonings. This helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor.
- Watch the heat: Make sure your grill is preheated. If it’s too hot, they might burn outside but be raw inside. A steady medium-high heat is best.
- Check for tenderness: After grilling, poke a slice with a fork. If it goes in easily, they’re ready! Don’t rush—letting them rest helps with the texture.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 10 to 12 minutes for grilling. You’ll have delicious grilled sweet potatoes ready to serve in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (or 200°C). This will ensure your sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
2. Slice the Sweet Potatoes:
While the grill is heating, wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. If you like, you can peel them, but the skin is nutritious and tasty! Next, slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This thickness helps them cook evenly on the grill.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the sweet potato slices. Pour in the olive oil, and sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if you’re using them). Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are well coated in the oil and seasonings.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the sweet potato rounds onto the grill grates in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them so they cook nicely. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side until you see beautiful grill marks. Then, flip them over and grill for another 4-5 minutes, or until they are nice and tender all the way through.
5. Rest and Garnish:
After grilling, take the sweet potatoes off the grill and let them rest for about a minute. This allows the flavors to settle. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color before serving.
Enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes as a tasty side dish or snack! They’re sure to please everyone!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular potatoes, though they may require different cooking times. They tend to cook faster than sweet potatoes, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from getting overly soft or burnt. Cut them into similar 1/4-inch thick rounds for uniform cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a minute or two or place them back on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through, which helps retain their delicious smoky flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Olive Oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with another oil such as avocado or canola oil, or even use a spray oil for less fat. If you’re avoiding oil altogether, try wrapping the sweet potatoes in foil with a splash of water to create steam while grilling. This will keep them moist!
What Other Seasonings Can I Add to Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Feel free to get creative! You can add spices like cumin, chili powder, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet twist. For a kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combination!
