Grilled sweet potatoes are a treat! They get soft and sweet on the inside while the outside gets a nice, crispy char. Simply slice them, season, and toss them on the grill!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist munching on these while they cook. They make a fantastic side dish or a fun snack. I love them with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a bit of honey—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: They are sweet and nutritious. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can try butternut squash or regular potatoes, but the flavor will change. I love how the sweetness intensifies when grilled!
Olive Oil: A staple for flavor and moisture. For a different taste, consider avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Don’t skip the oil, as it helps in getting that lovely grill char.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the flavors. Feel free to change it up by using garlic powder or onion powder for a unique taste. I sometimes add a pinch of cumin for an earthy flavor.
Paprika: This is optional but recommended for a smoky touch. You can swap it with smoked paprika for extra depth, or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs like parsley or cilantro brightens the dish. If you want something different, try chives or basil. Fresh herbs truly elevate the dish!
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Sweet Potatoes?
Achieving those beautiful grill marks is all about preparation and timing. Here’s how you can do it:
- First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. A hot grill is key!
- Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook them undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side. Resist the urge to move them too soon—patience will reward you with nice grill marks!
- Check for tenderness with a fork; your sweet potatoes should be soft in the center but maintain their shape.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8-10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy the deliciousness in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly and peeling off the skins. After that, slice them into round discs about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures that they grill evenly and cook perfectly!
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, take those lovely sweet potato slices and toss them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Make sure each slice gets a nice even coating so they become flavorful as they grill.
3. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully arrange your seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and tenderness in the center!
4. Check for Doneness:
To be sure they are cooked just right, use a fork to pierce a slice. It should be soft but not mushy—a perfect tender bite!
5. Serve:
Once they are done, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and place them on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a lovely finish. Serve warm and enjoy this sweet and smoky side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are recommended for this recipe because of their natural sweetness, you can use regular potatoes or even zucchini as a substitute. Just keep in mind that regular potatoes may need slightly more oil and time to cook through due to their density.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can easily prepare sweet potatoes in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and lightly browned.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, cinnamon, or garlic powder for different flavor profiles. You can also top them with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra kick. Just be creative!
