Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and healthy side dish! They get a lovely smoky flavor from the grill and a natural sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, I can’t get enough of those crispy edges! They pair perfectly with burgers or just about anything. Plus, they’re super easy to make—just slice, season, and grill!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. You can use purple or Japanese sweet potatoes for a different flavor and color. If you need a substitute, regular potatoes can work, but they won’t have the same sweetness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely richness. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or grapeseed oil can also be used, offering a high smoke point for grilling.
Sea Salt & Black Pepper: These are basics, but happy to mix it up! If you’re watching your sodium intake, try using a sprinkle of garlic salt instead for flavor. You might also enjoy using smoked salt for a deeper taste.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: Both are optional but add great flavor! Instead of garlic powder, fresh garlic can provide a punch. For paprika, smoked paprika can enhance the overall taste and aroma of your sweet potatoes.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or cilantro for freshness. If those aren’t on hand, green onions or even dill can be tasty alternatives.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Grilled Just Right?
Grilling sweet potatoes is all about achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Start by slicing them evenly into 1/4-inch thick rounds; this ensures they cook at the same rate. A mandolin works wonders for uniformity!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat – this gives the slices those delightful grill marks.
- Don’t forget to lightly oil the grill grates. This helps prevent sticking and makes flipping easier.
- Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes. If necessary, adjust the time based on how thick your slices are. Check for tenderness by poking them with a fork.
Doing this will give you sweet, flavorful potatoes with a charming charred finish!
How to Grill Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro) – optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This grilled sweet potatoes recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. Overall, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious side or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First things first, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This is important so your sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel your sweet potatoes. Using a sharp knife or a mandolin, slice them evenly into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Keeping them uniform helps ensure they all cook at the same rate.
3. Season the Slices:
Take a large bowl and add the sweet potato slices. Pour in the olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. If you want to add some extra flavor, toss in the garlic powder and paprika too! Gently toss everything together to coat each slice evenly.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Before grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Lay the sweet potato slices on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks. Keep an eye on them, as cooking time may vary based on the heat and thickness of your slices.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sweet potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the grill and place them on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for extra color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy as a delicious side dish or snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are delicious, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even zucchini. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may require slight adjustments in grilling time due to their varying densities.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat or warm them in the microwave until hot, adding a splash of olive oil to refresh their flavor.
Can I Prepare Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice and coat the sweet potatoes with olive oil and seasonings a few hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
What is the Best Way to Check if the Sweet Potatoes are Done?
The best way to check is to use a fork or knife to pierce the thickest part of a slice. If it goes in easily and the sweet potato feels tender, they’re done! Look for nice grill marks and a slight caramelization for extra flavor.
