Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and colorful side dish! They get a nice smoky flavor from the grill and are super easy to make. Just slice them up, toss with a little oil, and grill until soft!
I love how the natural sweetness comes out when they’re grilled. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ll have a hit at any barbecue. Plus, they’re good for you—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes. If you can’t find them, yams can be a good substitute, though they might differ slightly in taste and texture.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. You can replace it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor. If you’re avoiding oils, try steaming instead!
Seasonings: The sea salt and black pepper are essential for flavor. For a twist, use cumin instead of garlic powder, or toss in cayenne for some heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro add a nice finish, but you can skip them if you prefer.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
The key to grilling sweet potatoes is preparation and cooking technique. First, cut them into even slices about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly. Remember, the grill should be preheated for best results.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each piece enough space to get those beautiful grill marks.
- Check for tenderness using a fork. If they’re soft but hold their shape, they’re ready!
Patience is key; flipping too early can lead to sticking. Enjoy the grilling process! It’s well worth the wait.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking time on the grill. So in total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to have these delicious grilled sweet potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by scrubbing the sweet potatoes under running water to clean them. If you prefer, you can peel the sweet potatoes; it’s all up to your taste! Next, slice the sweet potatoes into even rounds about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly on the grill.
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and any other seasonings you’d like to add, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika. Make sure every slice is nicely coated with the oil and seasonings for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, preheat it over medium heat. This will ensure that your sweet potatoes cook properly and get those lovely grill marks!
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to grill! Arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. When they have beautiful grill marks, flip them over and grill the other side for another 4-5 minutes. They should become tender while maintaining that nice texture.
5. Check for Doneness:
To make sure your sweet potatoes are perfectly cooked, use a fork to check if they’re tender inside but not mushy. If they need a little more time, feel free to grill them for an additional minute or two.
6. Serve:
Once grilled, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and place them on a serving platter. If you want to jazz them up, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro!
7. Enjoy:
These grilled sweet potatoes are best served warm. Enjoy them as a tasty side dish or a healthy snack! Yum!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes if you prefer! However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Russets or Yukon golds are great alternatives, but they’ll require a bit more grilling time until they become tender.
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 toss them back on the grill for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave. If you’re grilling again, consider brushing them with a little olive oil to refresh their flavor.
Can I Prep the Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can slice and season the sweet potatoes a few hours in advance. Just place them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What Are Some Good Seasoning Alternatives?
If you want to mix things up, consider trying different spices like cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of cayenne for heat. You can also add a sprinkle of brown sugar before grilling for a sweet caramelized finish!
