Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! They’re soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, making them super fun to eat. Just slice them up, season, and grill until perfectly charred.
Whenever I make these, they disappear quickly! I love serving them with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of chili powder for a little kick. Perfect for summer barbecues! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star of the show with their natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use regular potatoes, but the flavor will differ. I love using garnet or purple sweet potatoes for a bit of color!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps achieve a nice crisp on the grill. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil is a great substitute, as it’s similar in fat content but has a milder taste.
Spices: Paprika and garlic powder bring warmth and flavor. You can switch out paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. If garlic powder isn’t available, fresh minced garlic works too; just be careful not to burn it on the grill!
Fresh Herbs: While optional, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have these, try green onions for a similar vibrancy.
How Do You Grill Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to it. The key is slicing them evenly and not rushing the cooking process. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Slice sweet potatoes into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch) for quick, even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill sears the outside and locks in moisture.
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, or use a grilling basket if you’re concerned about them falling through.
- Place slices on the grill in a single layer. Keep the lid closed while cooking for even heat distribution.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Check for tenderness and grill marks. Adjust cooking time based on your grill’s heat.
Let them cool slightly before serving. This helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to handle. Enjoy!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes of grilling time. So, you’ll be enjoying delicious grilled sweet potatoes in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by turning on your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to give it some time to heat up while you prep the sweet potatoes.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and peel them. Then, slice them into thin rounds, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and quickly on the grill.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss those sweet potato slices with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the slices are evenly coated with the delicious seasoning.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Lay the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on the grill. Close the lid and let them grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a tender texture with nice grill marks.
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, carefully remove the sweet potato slices from the grill. Let them cool for a couple of minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and extra flavor before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled sweet potatoes are now ready! Serve them warm as a tasty side dish or a healthy snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Baby Sweet Potatoes Instead of Large Ones?
Absolutely! Baby sweet potatoes will work just fine. Just adjust the cooking time as they may grill a bit faster. Cut them into even slices to ensure they cook uniformly, and start checking for doneness around the 4-minute mark on each side.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil as alternatives. Both will add a delicious flavor and help the spices stick to the sweet potatoes.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in the oven for best results. Just a few minutes on each side will get them warm and slightly crispy again!
Can I Add Other Spices or Seasonings?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different spices such as chili powder for a kick, or cinnamon for a sweet twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences.
