Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a smoky flavor from the grill. They’re soft on the inside and crispy on the outside!
Trust me, there’s something magical about those grill marks. I mean, who can resist a good sweet potato? I love them as a side dish or even as a snack with a little sprinkle of salt!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes. If you can’t find them, try butternut squash for a similar texture and sweetness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for grilling because of its flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well too!
Garlic Powder: This adds wonderful flavor. If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic instead—about 1-2 cloves should do. Just remember to use it sparingly, as it can burn on the grill.
Paprika: Regular paprika is good, but smoked paprika gives an added depth. If you don’t have paprika, cayenne is a great substitute for a kick.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro add freshness. You can use what you enjoy or have on hand, like basil or mint, for a unique twist.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes might seem tricky, but it’s straightforward! First, cutting them into even 1/4-inch rounds helps them cook uniformly. This way, they become tender without burning. Here’s how to grill them just right:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. This is crucial for even cooking.
- After tossing the sweet potatoes in oil and spices, let them sit for a few minutes. This helps absorb the flavors.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling. Each side needs about 4-5 minutes. Flip using tongs to avoid damaging them.
- Check for doneness by piercing a slice with a fork. If it goes in easily, they’re done!
Remember, letting them cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients and another 10-15 minutes to grill the sweet potatoes, giving you a total of around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium heat. This is important to ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and peel them. Next, slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to make the slices as uniform as possible so they cook evenly on the grill.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato slices with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently until all the slices are evenly coated with the oil and spices. This will add lots of flavor!
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Carefully place the sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, so they can get those lovely grill marks.
5. Flip and Finish Grilling:
After 4-5 minutes, flip the sweet potato slices over and grill for another 4-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are tender and have nice char marks on both sides.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a beautiful finish. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Oils for Grilling Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While olive oil adds great flavor, you can use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil. Just keep in mind that the smoke point of the oil matters; choose one that can withstand grilling temperatures without burning.
Can I Make Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice and season the sweet potatoes a few hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This works well for meal prep!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill for a few minutes to regain that grilled flavor, or pop them in the microwave for a quicker option.
What Are Some Suggested Seasoning Variations?
Feel free to get creative with the seasoning! You can add cumin and chili powder for a smoky kick, or try seasoning with cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweet twist. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
