Lightly dressed with olive oil and salt, grilled sweet potatoes are a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a cozy fall dinner, or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is your go-to. With their smoky flavor and creamy yogurt dressing, these sweet potatoes stand out as a versatile option that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Grilled sweet potatoes come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of olive oil, salt, and a zesty yogurt dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Versatile Side Dish: These grilled sweet potatoes pair well with various proteins and are suitable for any season or gathering.
- Healthy Choice: Rich in vitamins and fiber, sweet potatoes are a nutritious addition to your meal.
- Gluten-Free and Vegetarian: This recipe caters to diverse dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started, gather your tools to make the grilling process smooth.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Large rimmed sheet pan
- Blender or food processor
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that delicious smoky flavor while perfectly cooking the sweet potatoes.
- Blender or food processor: Helps create a smooth and creamy dressing quickly, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
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.
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1½-inch thick wedges
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step ensures that your sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop that lovely charred exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Place the sweet potatoes on a large rimmed sheet pan.
- Drizzle them with olive oil.
- Sprinkle all over with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Toss to coat completely.
- Arrange the sweet potatoes on the grill with the cut side down.
Step 3: Grill Until Tender
Grill the sweet potatoes, turning every 2-3 minutes until they are fork-tender — this should take about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
While the sweet potatoes are grilling:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, green onions, dill, garlic, basil, lemon juice, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt.
2. Blend until smooth for about 1-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve Your Dish
Transfer the grilled sweet potatoes to a serving platter. Drizzle them with the yogurt dressing and top with fresh dill. Serve family style for everyone to enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes are versatile and can complement various dishes. They can be served in many ways to enhance your meal experience.
As a Healthy Appetizer
- Dipped in Yogurt Sauce: Serve the grilled sweet potatoes with a side of the yogurt dressing for a refreshing dip.
- With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with additional fresh dill or basil for an aromatic touch.
In a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss grilled sweet potatoes with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a hearty salad.
- Quinoa Salad: Add them to a quinoa salad with feta cheese, cucumbers, and lemon dressing for extra flavor.
As a Side Dish
- With Grilled Meats: Pair them with grilled chicken or steak for a balanced meal.
- Alongside Fish: Their sweetness complements grilled fish nicely, especially salmon or tilapia.
How to Perfect Grilled Sweet Potatoes
To achieve beautifully grilled sweet potatoes, consider these essential tips.
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best texture and taste.
- Cut Evenly: Ensure all wedges are cut to the same thickness for even cooking on the grill.
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Use Olive Oil Generously: Coat the sweet potatoes well with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Grill until fork-tender, turning every 2-3 minutes to avoid burning.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes that elevate any meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add crunch and flavor that complements sweet potatoes.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nutty contrast that balances sweetness.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn is a classic summer side that works well with the smoky flavor of grilled sweet potatoes.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and texture to your plate, creating a satisfying meal.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs offers a delightful mix of flavors.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans can be a filling companion alongside grilled sweet potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling sweet potatoes can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:
Skipping the soaking: Not soaking the sweet potato wedges in water for 30 minutes can lead to uneven cooking. Soaking helps them cook more evenly on the grill.
Not preheating the grill: Forgetting to preheat your grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always ensure your grill is hot before placing the sweet potatoes on it.
Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many wedges at once makes it hard for them to cook properly. Give each piece enough space to allow for even heat circulation.
Using low-quality oil: Not using extra-virgin olive oil may affect flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality oil for better results.
Ignoring seasoning: Skimping on salt or other seasonings leads to bland sweet potatoes. Make sure to season well before grilling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Grilled sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep them fresh and prevent moisture loss.
Freezing Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Duration: They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Store in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place the sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, usually taking about 1-2 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sauté the wedges for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my grilled sweet potatoes are done?
You can tell they are ready when they are fork-tender and have nice grill marks. This typically takes about 15 minutes on medium-high heat.
Can I use other spices with grilled sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! You can customize by adding spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for added flavor.
What should I serve with grilled sweet potatoes?
Grilled sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a vegetarian platter.
Are grilled sweet potatoes healthy?
Yes! They are nutritious, low in fat, and provide a great source of vitamins A and C while being gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Grilled sweet potatoes make for a delightful side dish that adds color and flavor to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various seasonings and dips, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly grilled sweet potatoes!
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes are a vibrant and delicious side dish that will elevate any meal. With their caramelized exterior and tender interior, they bring a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory proteins or fresh salads. This recipe features a zesty Greek yogurt dressing that adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the smoky grilled flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, these sweet potatoes can be ready in just 25 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or summer barbecues. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, grilled sweet potatoes are sure to impress.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt
- 4 green onions
- ¼ cup fresh dill
- 2 garlic cloves
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut sweet potatoes into wedges. In a large bowl, toss with olive oil and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Place wedges cut side down on the grill. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until fork-tender.
- While grilling, blend yogurt, green onions, dill, garlic, basil, lemon juice, and remaining salt until smooth.
- Serve grilled sweet potatoes drizzled with yogurt dressing and garnish with fresh dill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wedge (75g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Ensure sweet potatoes are cut evenly for consistent cooking. Experiment with additional spices like paprika or cumin for added flavor. For a heartier dish, serve alongside grilled meats or in salads.