Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

One taste of these grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette will convince you to make this your go-to summer or fall side dish recipe. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a weeknight dinner, these grilled sweet potatoes are sure to impress. With a delightful blend of spices and the fresh kick of cilantro vinaigrette, this recipe stands out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of grilled sweet potatoes and cilantro vinaigrette creates a unique and vibrant taste.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be ready in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for summer BBQs or cozy fall dinners, it complements a variety of main dishes.
• Healthy Choice: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this recipe a wholesome addition to your meals.
• Vegan-Friendly: This dish is perfect for vegans and vegetarians looking for flavorful side options.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the heat necessary to achieve those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Large pot: Ensures even cooking when boiling the sweet potatoes before grilling.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly coat the potato slices with olive oil for enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Sweet Potatoes

• 2 medium, unpeeled sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

For the Cilantro Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon agave nectar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

Step 1: Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water.
* Boil the potatoes until they are just cooked through, about 20 minutes.
* Transfer the potatoes to a cutting board and let them rest until they are cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to HIGH heat.
* Lightly grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Slice and Season

When the potatoes are cool enough to handle:
* Slice them into ¼-inch rounds.
* Brush each round with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Sweet Potatoes

Place the sweet potato slices on the grill.
* Cook for about 2 ½ minutes per side until they have browned grill marks.

Step 5: Serve with Vinaigrette

Transfer the grilled potatoes to a serving platter.
* Drizzle with cilantro vinaigrette before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes!

How to Serve Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

Grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette make a vibrant and flavorful side dish. They can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve them warm on their own, drizzled with extra cilantro vinaigrette for an added burst of flavor.

Pairing with Grilled Meats

• These sweet potatoes complement grilled chicken, steak, or fish beautifully, providing a sweet contrast to savory flavors.

On a Salad

• Chop the grilled sweet potatoes and toss them into a fresh salad for added texture and nutrition. They pair well with greens like arugula or spinach.

In Tacos

• Use sliced grilled sweet potatoes as a filling in tacos topped with avocado and salsa for a delicious vegetarian option.

With Dips

• Serve them alongside dips such as hummus or guacamole for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Adding Nuts or Seeds

• Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top for extra crunch and nutrition, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.

How to Perfect Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

For the best results when making grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Pre-Cook for Tenderness: Boil the sweet potatoes until just cooked through; this ensures they grill evenly without burning.
• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to high heat before placing the sweet potatoes on it. This creates perfect grill marks and enhances flavor.
• Brush Generously with Oil: Coating the slices in olive oil not only prevents sticking but also promotes even browning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each slice enough space on the grill to cook properly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the vinaigrette for an exciting twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

When planning your meal, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully with grilled sweet potatoes.

1. Grilled Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of grilled corn, tomatoes, and onions tossed in lime dressing adds brightness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa combined with herbs and vegetables offers a hearty yet healthy contrast.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide crunch and flavor balance.
4. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a tangy crunch that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and bitterness, offsetting sweetness perfectly.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A light salad of cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in vinegar is refreshing next to rich flavors.
7. Chickpea Salad: This protein-packed salad features chickpeas mixed with cucumbers and feta cheese for added texture.
8. Baked Avocado Frittata: A savory frittata featuring baked avocado pairs well as a filling side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette, there are some common pitfalls you might encounter. Here are a few mistakes to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Boiling them for too long can lead to mushy potatoes. Aim for about 20 minutes until they’re just tender.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not letting the sweet potatoes soak in olive oil and seasonings can result in bland flavors. Always brush them well before grilling.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can cause uneven cooking. Ensure your grill is hot before placing the sweet potatoes on it.
• Cutting Them Too Thick: Slicing the sweet potatoes thicker than ¼-inch may prevent them from cooking evenly. Stick to the recommended thickness for best results.
• Using Old Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for a vibrant vinaigrette. Always choose fresh herbs for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

• Allow the sweet potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They’ll maintain quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Warm the sweet potatoes for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead. Just store them properly as mentioned above.

What can I serve with grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette?

These grilled sweet potatoes pair well with grilled vegetables, salads, or any protein like chicken or tofu.

Are grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.

How do I customize the cilantro vinaigrette?

Feel free to add ingredients like jalapeño for heat or honey instead of agave nectar for sweetness!

Final Thoughts

Grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette are not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement various meals. This dish shines as a summer or fall side dish and offers ample room for customization based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its vibrant flavors and delightful textures!

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Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Vinaigrette

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Grilled sweet potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette offer a delightful and vibrant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy fall dinner. With their smoky flavor and the refreshing zing of cilantro vinaigrette, these sweet potatoes are not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The dish is versatile enough to complement grilled meats, salads, or even stand alone as a healthy snack. Plus, it caters to vegan diets, making it an excellent choice for everyone at the table.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon agave nectar

Instructions

1. Boil: Place sweet potatoes in a large pot of water. Boil for about 20 minutes until just tender. Cool before handling.
2. Preheat: Heat your grill to high and lightly grease the grates.
3. Slice: Cut cooled sweet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds.
4. Season: Brush slices with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Grill: Cook potato rounds for approximately 2½ minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
6. Serve: Transfer to a platter, drizzle with cilantro vinaigrette, and enjoy.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for best results. Experiment by adding different herbs to the vinaigrette for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.