Grilled sweet potatoes are a fun and tasty side dish! They turn sweet and smoky on the grill, making them irresistible. Just slice them, toss with a little oil, and grill until tender.
These sweet potatoes are not just delicious, they also add a lovely color to the plate. I love having them with my burgers, but really, they are good with anything. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes. If you can’t find them, butternut squash makes a great substitute and adds a similar sweetness and texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich flavor, but feel free to swap it out for avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you’re aiming for a different taste.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can work, but be cautious with the heat level.
Fresh Herbs: I like using parsley for a fresh lift, but cilantro or chives also work well. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can serve in a pinch, just use less.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Without Them Sticking?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky, but with the right steps, you’ll avoid any sticking issues. For perfectly grilled slices, make sure to slice them evenly and keep the grill hot.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F) before placing your sweet potatoes on it.
- Brush both sides of the sweet potato slices with oil. A well-oiled potato will slide off easier.
- Use a grill mat if you’re unsure about sticking, as it helps retain the grill marks without the risk.
- Flip the slices carefully with tongs, waiting until they’re nice and golden before turning.
Delicious Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to grill. So, in just around 30-35 minutes, you’ll have deliciously grilled sweet potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is around 350°F. This is important for even cooking and getting those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly, and then peel them. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This thickness will help them cook evenly and quickly on the grill.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potato slices, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you want that extra smoky flavor). Toss everything well so that the sweet potatoes are nicely coated.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the seasoned sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates or use a grill mat to make sure they don’t stick. Grill each side for about 7-10 minutes, until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks. Keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn!
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once grilled, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and let them cool slightly. Transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle with fresh herbs if you’d like for a lovely touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These grilled sweet potatoes make a fantastic side dish or a healthy snack. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For example, regular potatoes or Yukon Gold may take a bit longer to cook than sweet potatoes, so check for tenderness frequently while grilling!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a grill or in the oven. You can also add a splash of olive oil to refresh their flavor while reheating.
Can I Prep Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can slice the sweet potatoes up to a day in advance. Just soak the slices in water to prevent browning, then drain and dry them before adding oil and seasoning when you’re ready to grill.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other cooking oils like avocado oil or canola oil. Each will add a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for grilling. Just make sure the oil has a high smoke point!