If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, then the Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe is your new go-to. This recipe brings together velvety mashed avocados brightened by zesty lime juice and aromatic cilantro, paired with golden, crispy plantain chips that add an irresistible crunch. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just want a wholesome treat, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, creating a texture and taste that feels fresh, colorful, and balanced. From the creamy avocados to the crispy plantains, you’ll appreciate how every element shines.
- 2 ripe avocados: Make sure they’re perfectly ripe for a creamy and smooth dip base.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Adds a lively citrus tang that brightens the avocado flavor.
- 1 small garlic clove, minced: Provides a subtle kick and depth without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion: Offers a crisp bite and slight sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh herbaceous note that complements the lime.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone for complexity.
- 2 green plantains, peeled and thinly sliced: The star of the chips, providing a sturdy, yet tender crunch.
- 2 cups neutral oil for frying: Ensures evenly cooked, crispy chips without added flavors.
- Additional salt for seasoning chips: A finishing touch to maximize the crisp chip experience.
How to Make Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Lime Dip
Start by placing the avocados in a medium-sized bowl and mashing them until you reach a mostly smooth yet slightly chunky texture. Stir in the fresh lime juice to prevent browning and add a zesty brightness. Mix in the minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, salt, and ground cumin until everything melds into a harmonious, creamy dip. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then cover and place the dip in the refrigerator to keep it fresh while you prepare the chips.
Step 2: Fry the Plantain Chips to Golden Perfection
Heat the neutral oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Fry the thinly sliced green plantains in batches, allowing 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and crisp up. As you take them out of the hot oil, transfer the chips to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle them immediately with additional salt. This ensures each chip is perfectly seasoned and delightfully crunchy.
Step 3: Cool and Serve
Allow the plantain chips to cool just enough so they hold their crispness but aren’t too hot to enjoy. Serve them alongside your chilled avocado lime dip for a match made in snack heaven. The creamy, tangy dip paired with crunchy chips makes every bite an exciting flavor and textural experience.
How to Serve Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor of your Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe by adding garnishes such as thin slices of fresh chili for a spicy touch or a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro to amplify that fresh herb aroma. A few toasted pumpkin seeds can add an unexpected nutty crunch, making your dip even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This dip-and-chip duo pairs perfectly with a light, crisp salad or grilled vegetables. A colorful corn salad or a fresh tomato salsa can complement the creamy dip without overpowering its refreshing flavors. For a fuller meal, serve alongside black bean salad or a sweet potato casserole to elevate your snack into a festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the avocado lime dip in small individual bowls or hollowed-out mini avocados for a charming touch at parties. Arrange the plantain chips upright in a tall glass or mason jar to keep them crunchy and easy to grab. You can also layer the dip and chips on a platter for an eye-catching appetizer display that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover avocado lime dip should be stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize exposure to air and prevent browning. It’s best consumed within one day for peak freshness and flavor, while plantain chips are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in a sealed container for up to two days before they lose their crispness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for the avocado lime dip as avocados tend to become watery and lose their creamy texture when thawed. The plantain chips also do not freeze well as they become soft. Enjoy this recipe fresh for the best experience.
Reheating
The plantain chips can be revivified by popping them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for a few minutes to regain some crispiness if they’ve softened. The dip, on the other hand, should be served cold and is not intended for reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ripe yellow plantains instead of green for the chips?
Ripe yellow plantains are sweeter and softer, so they won’t provide the same crispy texture as green plantains. For crispy chips, it’s best to stick with firm green plantains in this recipe.
How can I make this Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe vegan and gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, using only fresh produce and plant-based ingredients without any additives, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs.
What’s the best way to prevent the dip from browning?
The key is using fresh lime juice and storing the dip with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to limit air contact, which helps keep that beautiful green color longer.
Can I bake the plantain chips instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking at 400°F for about 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, gives you a lighter chip option that is still nicely crispy and delicious.
Is there a way to make the dip spicier?
Yes! Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the dip for a spicy kick that complements the lime and cilantro beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a flavorful snack any time you want a little taste of sunshine. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s become such a beloved favorite in my kitchen.
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Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Avocado Lime Dip with Plantain Chips is a creamy, zesty, and vibrant Latin American appetizer that pairs smooth avocado dip with crispy, golden plantain chips. The dip combines ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, garlic, red onion, cilantro, and aromatic spices for a refreshing and flavorful vegan and gluten-free snack, perfect for any gathering or light bite.
Ingredients
Avocado Lime Dip
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Plantain Chips
- 2 green plantains, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups neutral oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- Additional salt for seasoning chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Avocado Lime Dip: Place the peeled and pitted avocados into a medium bowl and mash them until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky. Stir in the fresh lime juice, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, salt, and ground cumin. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the texture is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip while you prepare the plantain chips.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in the neutral oil and heat over medium heat. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking, ensuring it is at the optimal temperature for frying the chips without burning.
- Fry the Plantain Chips: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the thinly sliced plantains to the hot oil. Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until the chips are golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chips to a paper towel-lined plate immediately after frying to drain excess oil.
- Season the Chips: While the chips are still warm, sprinkle them with additional salt to taste. Allow them to cool slightly to enhance their crunchiness before serving.
- Serve: Arrange the plantain chips on a serving platter alongside the chilled avocado lime dip. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect combination of creamy and crispy textures.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, bake the plantain chips in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.
- The avocado lime dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day if covered tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
- Use green plantains for the best chip texture; ripe plantains will be too soft and sweet for this recipe.
- Adjust the lime juice and salt according to your taste preferences to balance acidity and seasoning.
