Grilled sweet potatoes are a delightful twist on a familiar favorite. When the natural sweetness of the potato meets the smokiness of the grill, a culinary masterpiece is born. This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes with its charred stripes and golden hues.
As summer days beckon us outside, why not transform the simple sweet potato into something extraordinary on the grill? Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a quiet meal, grilled sweet potatoes can elevate any occasion.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor Fusion: The grilling process imparts a smoky flavor to the sweet potatoes, creating a beautiful balance between the natural sweetness of the potatoes and the earthy notes from the grill. This combination of sweet and smoky is both unique and tantalizing. It's a taste you don’t often find in regular oven-baked or boiled sweet potatoes. This method unlocks a different dimension of the vegetable’s potential.
Simple Yet Impressive: Grilling sweet potatoes is a surprisingly simple process, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Yet, the result is a gourmet-level side dish that can impress your guests. Not only are they delicious, but they also retain many of their nutrients, making them a healthier choice. The charred grill marks add a visual appeal, making them look as mouth-watering as they taste. If you’re seeking an easy way to elevate your menu, this is the dish to introduce.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes - They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They have a naturally sweet flavor which enhances when grilled. Substitute:Regular potatoes, though they have a different taste and texture.
Olive Oil- Used to coat the potatoes before grilling. It provides a nice flavor and ensures the potatoes don’t stick to the grill. Substitute: Avocado oil or melted butter.
Salt- Enhances the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes. Substitute: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
Black Pepper- Adds a touch of heat and complements the sweetness of the potatoes. Substitute: Crushed red pepper for a spicier kick.
Fresh Rosemary (optional)- Adds a fragrant, earthy touch to the grilled sweet potatoes. Substitute: Dried rosemary or fresh thyme.
Tips
- Choose firm and evenly shaped sweet potatoes for uniform cooking.
- Pre-cooking the sweet potatoes slightly in the microwave or boiling them can speed up the grilling process.
- Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part with a fork. It should slide in easily.
- Allow the grilled sweet potatoes to rest for a few minutes after taking them off the grill to let the flavors meld.
How to Serve
Grilled sweet potatoes can be a delightful addition to any meal, providing a wonderful balance of sweetness and smoky char. They can stand alone as a star side dish or complement other grilled delicacies.
- With Herb Butter: Melt some butter and mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro. Drizzle over the hot grilled sweet potatoes.
- As a Salad: Slice the grilled sweet potatoes and toss them in a salad with feta cheese, roasted nuts, and a light vinaigrette.
- In a Wrap: Use grilled sweet potato slices in a wrap or tortilla with some grilled chicken, lettuce, and a tangy sauce.
Similar Recipes
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary optional
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Wash and slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds.
- In a large bowl, toss sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- Place the slices on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they have nice grill marks and are tender.
- Remove from the grill, let them rest for a couple of minutes, and serve as desired.
Nutrition
Notes
- Choose firm and evenly shaped sweet potatoes for uniform cooking.
- Pre-cooking the sweet potatoes slightly in the microwave or boiling them can speed up the grilling process.
- Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part with a fork. It should slide in easily.
- Allow the grilled sweet potatoes to rest for a few minutes after taking them off the grill to let the flavors meld.