Irresistibly sweet and tangy, these grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes are a game-changer! The fresh cilantro and zesty lime perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
I love how easy they are to make—just slice, marinate, and grill! They add a pop of color and flavor to any barbecue. You might find yourself sneaking a few bites before serving! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the cilantro-lime flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use butternut squash or carrots as alternative veggies.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. You could substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different twist.
Lime: Fresh lime juice and zest brighten up the dish. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice can also work, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that herbal brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be used instead, or omit it altogether for a different take.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor. Garlic powder can be a quick substitute, using about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
How to Get the Best Flavor from Your Marinade?
Marinating the sweet potatoes helps them soak up all the delicious flavors. Make sure to properly coat them in the marinade before grilling. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix olive oil, lime juice, zest, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add sweet potato wedges, gently tossing them until well coated.
- Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for flavor!
Don’t rush this part—letting them sit allows the ingredients to meld and really enhances the taste when grilled.
How to Make Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for this recipe, including 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for marinating and grilling. It’s a quick and delicious way to make sweet potatoes shine on the grill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by turning your grill on to medium-high heat. This way, it will be hot and ready for your sweet potatoes once you’re done mixing the marinade.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine the flavors. This will give your sweet potatoes a tasty boost!
3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with marinade. Toss them around gently until they are all coated nicely in the flavorful mix. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to soak up all that deliciousness.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the grill is hot and your sweet potatoes have marinated, place the wedges on the grill. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Finish and Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill. You can garnish them with extra fresh cilantro if you like! Serve them warm with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
Enjoy your delicious grilled cilantro-lime sweet potatoes! They’re a perfect side dish for any meal.
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer grilling time to become tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the grilled sweet potato wedges in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a few hours ahead and toss the sweet potatoes in it. Let them marinate in the fridge for up to 2 hours before grilling. This will enhance the flavor even more!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potatoes?
These sweet potatoes pair beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken or shrimp, or you can enjoy them as a side dish with a fresh salad. They also make a tasty addition to a taco night!
