Grilled sweet potatoes are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine biting into a perfectly charred slice, where the sweet, caramelized edges meet a creamy interior. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone flocking to the grill, eagerly awaiting their turn. creamy corn chowder If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a sweet potato, wondering how to elevate it from mundane to magnificent, then you’re in for a treat.
Now, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. Picture this: it’s summer, and your friends are gathered for your annual backyard barbecue. You glance over to see the grill sizzling with meats and veggies, but it’s those grilled sweet potatoes that steal the show. sage brown butter gnocchi They’re not just tasty; they create connections, laughter, and memories around the table. Trust me; you’ll want these flavorful gems at every gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled sweet potatoes are easy to prepare and pack a flavor punch that will wow your taste buds
- Their vibrant colors make them visually appealing and perfect for celebrations
- They are versatile enough to be served as a side or even as a main dish
- Enjoy them hot off the grill or chilled in salads for an added twist!
There was that one time I brought these grilled sweet potatoes to a potluck, and they vanished faster than I could say “sweet potato fever.” Friends were raving about them all night long! For more inspiration, check out this hamburger potato casserole recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm ones without blemishes; they should feel heavy for their size.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds flavor while helping achieve that perfect char.
- Salt: Sea salt enhances all flavors; don’t skimp on this crucial element!
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper contributes a delightful kick to balance sweetness.
- Optional Spices: Smoked paprika or cinnamon can add exciting layers of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First things first: let’s get our grill ready.
Preheat Your Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). This ensures those beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Cut them into ¾-inch thick rounds or wedges for even cooking.
Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the sliced sweet potatoes. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper; toss until beautifully coated.
Add Optional Spices: If you’re feeling bold, sprinkle some smoked paprika or cinnamon now for an extra flavor boost. Mix it up again!
Grill Away!: Place the seasoned sweet potato slices on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until tender and grill marks appear.
Serve Hot!: Once cooked through and crispy around the edges, remove them from the grill. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or as is!
Enjoy these delicious grilled sweet potatoes as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic! They’re sure to become a family favorite like they did in my home—who knew vegetables could be this popular! For more inspiration, check out this perfectly crispy roasted potatoes recipe.
You Must Know
- Grilled sweet potatoes are packed with flavor and nutrition; they make a delightful side or snack
- The smoky char enhances their natural sweetness, making them a hit at every barbecue
- Get ready for a dish that’s both healthy and irresistibly tasty!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your grill, then slice the sweet potatoes into even rounds for consistent cooking. Grill each side until tender and lightly charred, achieving that perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with seasonings! Try adding cumin or chili powder for a kick, or drizzle with honey and lime for a refreshing twist. sweet potato chili recipe Personalize these grilled sweet potatoes to match your cravings.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When grilling sweet potatoes, ensure they’re evenly sliced for uniform cooking
- Marinating them beforehand enhances flavor—try olive oil and spices!
- Flip them gently to avoid breaking apart on the grill
Sometimes I think my friends come over just for my grilled sweet potatoes—they rave about them! I once paired them with a spicy dipping sauce, and it was an instant favorite.
FAQ
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, but they will have a different flavor and texture when grilled.
How do I know when grilled sweet potatoes are done?
They should be fork-tender with nice grill marks showing their smoky goodness. smoky maple glazed Brussels sprouts.
What can I serve with grilled sweet potatoes?
They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a fresh salad!
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 (as a side dish) 1x
Description
Grilled sweet potatoes are the ultimate side dish that combines a smoky char with natural sweetness, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy evenings, these vibrant gems are easy to prepare and deliciously versatile. Enjoy them hot off the grill or chilled in salads for a delightful twist.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 lb)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Wash and slice sweet potatoes into ¾-inch thick rounds.
- In a mixing bowl, toss sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Add optional spices if desired, and mix well.
- Grill sweet potato slices for about 5-7 minutes per side or until tender and charred.
- Serve immediately, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 medium grilled sweet potato (200g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate sweet potatoes in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Experiment with seasonings like cumin or chili powder for a spicy kick.