These grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish! They’re sweet, zesty, and filled with fresh flavors. A little char helps bring out that delicious sweetness.
I love how easy they are to make! Just toss the cubes in olive oil, lime juice, and cilantro, then grill until they’re golden. Perfect with any meal and a big hit at cookouts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness works wonderfully with lime. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using regular potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: A staple for grilling, it helps achieve that nice crispy exterior. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a great alternative. It has a higher smoke point and a mild flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley can work as a substitute, though the taste will be different. I personally love cilantro, so I often add a bit more for extra flavor!
Limes: They provide a bright tangy flavor that makes this dish pop. If limes are unavailable, fresh lemon juice can be used instead. It will give a similar zestiness!
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
The key to juicy, tender sweet potatoes is proper grilling technique. Here are some tips to ensure they cook evenly and don’t stick to the grill:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and ensure it’s clean to prevent sticking.
- Slice sweet potatoes into even wedges—about 1/2 inch thick—so they grill uniformly.
- Let them marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. This not only infuses flavor but helps in tenderizing them.
- Don’t move them too soon on the grill. Allow them to cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until grill marks show.
Resting them for a moment after grilling before serving helps keep them tender as well. Follow these steps and you’ll have deliciously grilled sweet potatoes every time!
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 limes (juiced and zested)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-30 minutes of prep time for marinating the sweet potatoes, plus about 15 minutes for grilling. So, in total, plan for around 30-45 minutes to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill and Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into wedges that are about 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly on the grill, making them deliciously tender.
2. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, juice and zest of the two limes, minced garlic, ground cumin, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together thoroughly—this will create a zesty marinade that’s packed with flavor!
3. Marinating the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently but thoroughly so that every piece is coated. To really soak in the flavors, let the sweet potatoes marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. This step is super important for making them extra tasty!
4. Grilling the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes are ready, carefully place them on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and make sure they’re tender when you poke them with a fork.
5. Serving and Enjoying:
After grilling, take the sweet potatoes off the grill and garnish with a bit more chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can use regular potatoes such as red or Yukon gold. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness and adjust as necessary.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No problem! You can substitute with fresh parsley, which will give a different but still delicious flavor. If using dried herbs, about 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro will suffice, but note that the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Simply preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the marinated sweet potato wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat for a quick serving.
