Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Lightly dressed with olive oil and salt, Grilled Sweet Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion. Their natural sweetness and smoky flavor make them a hit at barbecues, picnics, or casual weeknight dinners. This easy recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to pair well with various main dishes. With a delightful yogurt dressing, these grilled sweet potatoes stand out as a wholesome and satisfying option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of grill marks and seasoning brings out the sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness.
• Health-Friendly: Grilled sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C, making them a healthy choice.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with grilled meats, salads, or enjoy them alone; they fit into any meal.
• Gluten-Free & Vegetarian: Suitable for all diets, these sweet potatoes can be enjoyed by everyone at your table.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect grilled sweet potatoes, having the right tools is essential. Gather the following equipment before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large rimmed sheet pan
• Blender or food processor
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the ideal cooking method for achieving that smoky flavor while creating beautiful grill marks.
• Blender or food processor: Ensures a smooth and creamy yogurt dressing that elevates the dish.
• Tongs: Make it easy to turn the sweet potatoes on the grill without damaging them.

Ingredients

Lightly dressed with olive oil and salt, this easy grilled sweet potato recipe is the super-easy side dish you didn’t know you needed.

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1½-inch thick wedges
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt

For the Dressing

• ¾ cup Greek yogurt
• 4 green onions, ends trimmed, roughly chopped
• ¼ cup fresh dill, plus more for serving
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 10 large fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)

How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes for Grilling

1. Place the sweet potatoes on a large rimmed sheet pan.
2. Drizzle them with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of kosher salt over them.
4. Toss everything to coat completely.
5. Arrange the sweet potatoes on the grill cut side down.

Step 3: Grill Sweet Potatoes

Grill the sweet potatoes, turning every 2-3 minutes until fork-tender, about 15 minutes total.

Step 4: Make the Yogurt Dressing

1. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, green onions, dill, garlic, basil, lemon juice, and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.
2. Blend until smooth for about 1-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer grilled sweet potatoes to a serving platter. Drizzle with yogurt dressing and top with fresh dill before serving family style.

How to Serve Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Grilled sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy this easy side dish.

As a Flavorful Appetizer

• Dipping Sauce: Pair grilled sweet potatoes with a spicy aioli or herbed yogurt dip for an added kick.
• Skewers: Thread wedges onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for an attractive presentation.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss warm grilled sweet potatoes into a salad with mixed greens, nuts, and feta cheese for a satisfying meal.
• Quinoa Bowl: Add grilled sweet potatoes to a quinoa bowl with black beans, avocado, and lime dressing.

With Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal that balances flavors.
• Vegetarian Tacos: Use grilled sweet potatoes as a filling in soft tortillas topped with salsa and avocado.

How to Perfect Grilled Sweet Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your grilled sweet potatoes, consider these helpful tips. They will help ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Bold Cut Uniformly: Slice the sweet potatoes into even wedges to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Bold Preheat Grill: Always preheat your grill for a few minutes before adding the sweet potatoes to get those nice grill marks.
• Bold Oil Generously: Use enough olive oil to coat the wedges evenly; this prevents sticking and adds flavor.
• Bold Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while grilling, turning every 2-3 minutes until fork-tender.
• Bold Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to add spices like paprika or cumin for extra taste.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Grilled sweet potatoes pair well with many sides. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and crunch; serve it brushed with butter and herbs.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast; try using apple cider vinegar for an extra zing.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread brings texture; it’s perfect for soaking up any juices from the sweet potatoes.
4. Roasted Broccoli: The charred flavor of roasted broccoli makes it a great match; season it lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Chickpea Salad: A chickpea salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds protein and fiber, enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.
6. Cucumber and Tomato Salad: This light salad adds freshness; toss in some dill to echo the flavors of the sweet potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling sweet potatoes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to ensure perfect grilled sweet potatoes every time.

• Overcrowding the Grill: When you place too many sweet potatoes on the grill at once, they can steam instead of grill. Make sure to give them space for even cooking.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Skipping the preheating step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the sweet potatoes for best results.
• Cutting Uneven Wedges: If the wedges are not cut evenly, some pieces will cook faster than others. Aim for uniform 1½-inch thick wedges for consistent results.
• Skipping the Oil: Not drizzling olive oil on the sweet potatoes can result in sticking and dryness. Always coat them lightly with oil for flavor and to prevent sticking.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Grilling for too long or not long enough can make your sweet potatoes too tough or mushy. Keep an eye on them and turn every 2-3 minutes until fork-tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Grilled Sweet Potatoes

• Place grilled sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will maintain quality for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Grilled Sweet Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, usually about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of olive oil. Reheat slices for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes for grilled sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can experiment with other varieties, but cooking times may vary. Sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor that pairs well with grilling.

How do I know when my grilled sweet potatoes are done?

The best way to check is by using a fork; they should be fork-tender but not falling apart.

What goes well with grilled sweet potatoes?

Grilled sweet potatoes pair beautifully with proteins like chicken or fish, as well as salads and dips like yogurt dressing.

Can I customize the seasoning for grilled sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Grilled sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal occasion. Their natural sweetness complements various flavors, making them an excellent side dish or appetizer. Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe by experimenting with different herbs and spices. Enjoy grilling!