Artificial Food Coloring Free Whole30 Smoky Paprika Sautéed Plantains
Ripe plantains with black-spotted skins are nature's candy, and when you coat them in smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder before hitting a hot skillet, something genuinely magical happens. The natural sugars caramelize against the avocado oil, building deep golden edges and a smoky-sweet flavor that tastes far more complex than the short ingredient list suggests. Every component here is whole, recognizable, and completely free of synthetic dyes or artificial additives — no label-scanning required. A squeeze of fresh lime and a handful of cilantro at the end brighten the whole dish and make it feel like something you'd order at a really good restaurant. This works equally well as a bold side dish alongside grilled proteins or as a snack you eat straight from the pan while nobody's watching. The technique is straightforward — a single skillet, two batches if needed, and a little patience while those edges go golden — and the payoff is absolutely worth it.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 large ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For serving
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne, if using. Add the sliced plantains to a large bowl and toss with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
- 2
Heat the avocado oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
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