Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips
Have you ever found yourself craving something healthy yet indulgent? Enter Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips. This vibrant dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Featuring creamy avocado paired with the satisfying crunch of sweet potato chips, this recipe is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The magic of Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Using the creamy Haas avocados, this dish hits all the right notes: creamy, crunchy, spicy, and refreshing. The addition of red chili and lime gives it a zesty kick, while the sweet potato chips offer a wholesome alternative to traditional fried snacks. Plus, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience!
What You’ll Gather
To whip up Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 medium-sized Haas avocados
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust according to heat preference)
- Handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 3 limes, juiced
- 100 milliliters olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Equipment & Tools
Before you get started, gather these essential tools:
- Cutting board – for prepping your ingredients.
- Sharp knife – to make quick work of chopping and slicing.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the smashed avocados and other ingredients.
- Oven or air fryer – for baking the sweet potato chips.
- Baking sheet – to spread the sweet potato slices for even cooking.
- Spatula or fork – for smashing the avocados to your desired consistency.
Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to the appropriate temperature according to your model.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Chips
Slice your sweet potatoes thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform thickness. Place the slices in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing until they are well-coated. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
Step 3: Bake the Chips
Spread the sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 4: Smash the Avocados
While the chips are baking, cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Using a fork or spatula, smash the avocados to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the finely chopped red onion, red chili, diced red pepper, and chopped coriander leaves to the smashed avocados. Squeeze in the juice of all three limes and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sweet potato chips are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the smashed avocado mixture in a bowl alongside the sweet potato chips for dipping. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Customize for Your Needs
One of the best parts about making Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add a protein: Try including black beans, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a heartier dish.
- Jazz it up: Incorporate diced tomatoes, corn, or even feta cheese for added flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for a twist.
Troubles You Can Avoid
To ensure your Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Choose ripe avocados: They should yield slightly when pressed. Overripe or underripe avocados can affect the texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the lime juice: It not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the avocados from browning.
- Watch the sweet potatoes: Baking times can vary based on thickness, so check regularly to avoid burning.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: Always taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Save It for Later
If you have leftovers of your Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips, here’s how to store them:
For the smashed avocado mixture, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocado before sealing.
Sweet potato chips can be stored in a separate airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last for a day or two.
Popular Questions
Can I use other types of avocados?
While Haas avocados are preferred for their creamy texture, you can use other varieties if needed. Just ensure they are ripe for the best results.
What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
If sweet potatoes aren’t your thing, try using regular potatoes, zucchini, or even carrots. Each will offer a unique flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegan, as all the ingredients are plant-based.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
To reduce calories, use less olive oil for the chips and avocado mixture. You could also skip the chips altogether and serve the avocado on whole-grain toast or a salad instead.
What to Make After This
If you enjoyed Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips, you might want to try these delicious recipes:
- Guacamole with Pomegranate
- Crispy Chickpea Tacos
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
- Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Sauce
Next Steps
Now that you have all the knowledge and steps to create your own Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy this delightful dish. Remember, the best meals are the ones shared with loved ones, so don’t hesitate to share your creations on social media with #SmashedAvocados. Happy cooking!
Smashed Avocados with Sweet Potato Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to the appropriate temperature according to your model.
- Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Chips - Slice your sweet potatoes thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform thickness. Place the slices in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing until they are well-coated. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Bake the Chips - Spread the sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Step 4: Smash the Avocados - While the chips are baking, cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Using a fork or spatula, smash the avocados to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky!
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients - Add the finely chopped red onion, red chili, diced red pepper, and chopped coriander leaves to the smashed avocados. Squeeze in the juice of all three limes and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Once the sweet potato chips are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the smashed avocado mixture in a bowl alongside the sweet potato chips for dipping. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
- Choose ripe avocados for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the lime juice to prevent browning.
- Watch the sweet potatoes closely to avoid burning.
