These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are bright and full of flavor. The zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro make them a tasty side dish that everyone will enjoy!
Cooking them on the grill gives them a smoky touch. I love how easy they are to make! Just season, grill, and serve—perfect for summer barbecues or any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, offering a naturally sweet and creamy texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with other root vegetables like butternut squash or carrots, but adjust cooking times as needed since they may grill differently.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the sweet potatoes get crispy on the grill. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil or even coconut oil works well. Just remember, each oil brings a slightly different flavor!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for that zesty kick. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice can be used as a substitute, though it has a different flavor profile. I also love using a splash of orange juice for a sweet twist!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro really brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great alternative, or you can skip the herbs entirely if that suits your taste.
How Do I Get the Best Grill Marks on My Sweet Potatoes?
Achieving those beautiful grill marks is all about technique. Here are some tips:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This will help sear the sweet potatoes quickly.
- Placing the wedges perpendicular to the grill grates allows for better contact.
- Don’t move them around too much while they cook. Let them sit for about 4-5 minutes on one side before flipping so they can develop those marks.
Also, keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking. Sweet potatoes can go from perfectly grilled to mushy quickly, so check for tenderness to ensure they’re delicious!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 15-20 minutes for marinating. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes grilling. Altogether, you’ll have delicious grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your sweet potatoes get those lovely grill marks and cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into wedges or even rounds, about 1/2-inch thick. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended, creating a flavorful marinade.
4. Marinate the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl and toss them gently until they are fully coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the sweet potatoes absorb all that zesty flavor.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the marinated sweet potato wedges on the grill grates. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they feel tender and have nice grill marks. Use tongs to flip them over gently.
6. Serve and Garnish:
When the sweet potatoes are perfectly grilled, remove them from the grill and place them on a serving platter. For a pop of freshness, garnish with additional chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy every bite of your grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness when grilling.
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, simply pop them in the microwave or heat them on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of lime juice for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! All of the ingredients are plant-based, so you can enjoy the grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes without any adjustments.
What Can I Pair with Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes?
These sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, salads, or as a side to your favorite grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu. They also make a great filling for tacos or burritos!
