Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and healthy side dish. They get a nice smoky flavor from the grill and become wonderfully soft and sweet!
Honestly, the crispy edges make these sweet potatoes hard to resist. I sometimes munch on them as a snack—who can blame me? 😄 They’re super easy to prepare too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. If you’re in a pinch, you can use regular potatoes, but they won’t have the same sweetness.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor and helps in grilling. You can replace it with avocado oil or coconut oil if needed. Both are great for high-heat cooking!
Spices: Paprika and garlic powder give extra flavor. If you prefer a little heat, cayenne pepper works well instead of paprika! No garlic powder? Fresh minced garlic is a lovely substitute.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or cilantro for a fresh burst. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs like thyme or oregano can be a good choice.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Grilled Just Right?
Getting your sweet potatoes perfectly grilled can be tricky, but with a little care, you’ll achieve delicious results. Keeping the slices even is key for consistent cooking.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into even rounds, around 1/4-inch thick. This helps them cook through uniformly.
- Preheating the grill is crucial. You want a medium-high heat for a nice sear and to cook them properly without burning.
- Don’t forget to oil the grill grates! This helps prevent sticking and makes flipping them easier.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 15 minutes of grilling, making a total of about 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious grilled sweet potatoes. Perfect for a quick side dish or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Slice them into even rounds that are about ¼-inch thick. This thickness helps them cook through evenly on the grill.
3. Season the Slices:
In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Toss everything together until the sweet potato slices are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
4. Prepare the Grill:
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the sweet potato slices from sticking while they cook. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil or a grill spray for this.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potato slices on the grill in a single layer. Let them grill for about 5-7 minutes on one side, or until you see nice grill marks starting to form.
6. Flip and Finish Grilling:
Carefully flip the sweet potato slices over and grill for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side. They should be tender and cooked through by the end.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the grilled sweet potatoes from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving. This helps bring out their natural sweetness!
8. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for a lovely finishing touch. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique flavor, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different varieties may require slightly more or less grilling time.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though they might lose a bit of their crispness.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a different flavor or need an oil substitute, avocado oil or canola oil works just as well. For a twist, try melted coconut oil for a slightly sweet touch. Just keep in mind that each oil may impart a unique flavor to the sweet potatoes.
Can I Prep the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes ahead of time! Slice them and toss with oil and seasonings, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
