Crispy Smashed Plantains with Garlic Lime Mojo and Fresh Avocado

Ingredients

• •3 large green plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
• •1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
• •1 teaspoon sea salt
• •2 medium avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• •4 garlic cloves, minced
• •1/4 cup olive oil
• •1 lime, juiced
• •1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• •1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• •Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Peel the green plantains and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds. Set them aside on a plate.

2. 2

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.

3. 3

   Add the plantain slices to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden but not fully cooked. Remove the plantains and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

4. 4

   Using the bottom of a glass or a flat surface, gently smash each plantain slice to flatten it into a disk without breaking it apart.

5. 5

   Return the smashed plantains to the skillet and fry again for 1-2 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown. Remove and sprinkle with sea salt while still warm.

6. 6

   In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create the garlic lime mojo sauce.

7. 7

   To serve, arrange the fried plantains on a platter. Drizzle generously with the garlic lime mojo sauce and top with slices of fresh avocado. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

8. 8

   Enjoy immediately while the plantains are warm and crispy!