Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at your barbecue asking for the recipe! These Smoky Grilled Sweet Potatoes are not just a side dish; they're a flavor explosion that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a tantalizing smoky char and bright, zesty cilantro-lime finish. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a casual home cook, this Mexican-inspired recipe will elevate your summer cookouts from boring to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch thick rounds. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even cooking on the grill.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform marinade.
- Add the sweet potato slices to the bowl and gently toss, ensuring each slice is evenly coated with the oil and spice mixture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the sweet potato slices directly on the grill grates. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, rotating 45 degrees halfway through each side to create attractive crosshatch grill marks.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork. The potatoes should be tender and have a slight char on the exterior.
- Remove the grilled sweet potatoes and transfer to a serving platter.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the hot potatoes and sprinkle generously with chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Tips
- Slice Uniformity is Key: Ensure all sweet potato rounds are cut to the same 1/2-inch thickness to guarantee even cooking and prevent some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
- Preheat and Prepare: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F) and clean the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Oil Your Grates: A light brush of oil on the grill grates before cooking will help prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking and make flipping easier.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: Patience is crucial. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side and rotate 45 degrees midway to create those Instagram-worthy crosshatch grill marks.
- Test for Doneness: Use a fork to check tenderness. The potatoes should be soft but not mushy, with a slight char on the exterior for that perfect smoky flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
