Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty twist on a classic veggie! They become tender and sweet when grilled, with a lovely smoky flavor that makes them a perfect side dish.
Just slice them, season with a bit of salt and your favorite spices, and pop them on the grill. I love how easy they are to make, and they always impress everyone at cookouts! 🍠🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes. If you can’t find them, you could use butternut squash for a similar taste and texture.
Olive Oil: A staple for grilling, it adds flavor while preventing sticking. You can replace it with avocado oil, which has a high smoke point, making it great for grilling.
Spices: The paprika is optional, but it gives a great flavor boost. If you want a kick, try adding cayenne pepper or chili powder instead. You can also use garlic powder for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro add freshness. If you prefer, try using basil or chives, or skip them altogether if you want a simpler dish.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky if you’re not careful with cutting and cooking times. Start by slicing potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high (about 400°F or 200°C) to get those grill marks.
- Seal in flavors with olive oil and spices before grilling. Toss well for even coating.
- Place slices directly on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Remember, the goal is tender sweet potatoes with those lovely grill lines, so don’t rush the process!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, e.g., parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to grill. So, in just around 20 minutes, you can enjoy delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (or 200°C). This will help get those sweet potatoes nice and grill-marked!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
While the grill is heating up, wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Then slice them into rounds that are about 1/4 inch thick. Slicing them evenly is key for even cooking.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you want that extra flavor). Make sure each slice is well-coated so they can grill perfectly.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and for them to be tender. yum!
5. Serve and Garnish:
When they’re cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and place them on a serving platter. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a lovely finish. Serve them warm as a tasty side dish or snack. Enjoy your grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are delicious, you can use regular potatoes, Yukon gold, or even butternut squash for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly until they’re fork-tender.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can cook these sweet potatoes in a grill pan on your stovetop or even bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just brush them lightly with olive oil before cooking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave them if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Add More Flavor to the Sweet Potatoes?
Definitely! You can experiment with different spices, such as garlic powder, cayenne pepper for heat, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. Feel free to get creative based on your flavor preferences!
