Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

It’s funny how some of the best meals come from those moments when you’re staring into the fridge, wondering what to throw together with the odds and ends you have on hand. That’s exactly how this Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet was born in my kitchen one chilly weeknight. I had a few sweet potatoes begging to be used, a perfectly ripe avocado, and a desire for something warm and comforting but still packed with goodness. The result? Pure magic in a pan! Honestly, my family devoured it. Even my picky eater, who usually eyes anything green with suspicion, couldn’t get enough of the creamy avocado and the slightly sweet, spiced sweet potatoes. It’s become a regular in our rotation now, and I’m so excited to share this incredibly versatile and delicious recipe with you. Get ready to fall in love with a skillet meal that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying!

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

• Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes. These form the hearty base of our skillet, providing sweetness and vibrant color.
• Avocado: 2 ripe avocados, diced. Adds creamy richness and healthy fats to the dish.
• Red Onion: 1 medium, diced. Offers a pungent flavor that mellows as it cooks, adding depth to the skillet.
• Bell Pepper (any color): 1 large, diced. Contributes sweetness and crunch, and boosts the vitamin content. Red or orange bell peppers are particularly sweet.
• Black Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained. Provides plant-based protein and fiber, making the skillet more substantial.
• Corn Kernels: 1 cup, fresh or frozen (thawed). Adds sweetness and texture, complementing the other vegetables.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding healthy fats and preventing sticking.
• Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the avocado.
• Spices:
  • Chili Powder: 2 teaspoons. Provides a mild heat and smoky flavor.
  • Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and earthy notes.
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the smoky flavor and adds depth.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Provides a savory garlic flavor.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. Complements the fresh red onion and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances all the flavors.
  • Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a touch of spice.
• Fresh Cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped. For garnish, adding freshness and a vibrant aroma.
• Optional Toppings: Crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese (for non-vegan option), sour cream or Greek yogurt, hot sauce, extra lime wedges. These allow for customization and added flavor layers.

Instructions for Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Vegetables: Begin by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into ½-inch cubes. Uniformly sized pieces will ensure even cooking. Dice the red onion and bell pepper into similar-sized pieces. Rinse and drain the black beans and thaw the corn kernels if using frozen. Chopping all vegetables to a similar size ensures they cook uniformly in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced red onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the bell peppers soften slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Sautéing the onions and peppers first softens them and releases their flavors, creating a flavorful base for the skillet.
3. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine them with the onions and peppers. In a small bowl, whisk together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour the spice mixture over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir to coat all the vegetables evenly with the spices. Cooking the spices with the vegetables blooms their flavors, making the dish more aromatic and flavorful.
4. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Covering the skillet helps to steam the sweet potatoes and cook them through while keeping them moist.
5. Incorporate Black Beans and Corn: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, add the rinsed and drained black beans and corn kernels to the skillet. Stir to combine them with the sweet potatoes and other vegetables. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the black beans and corn are heated through. This adds protein and additional vegetables, making the dish more nutritionally complete and flavorful.
6. Add Lime Juice and Avocado: Remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the vegetables and stir to combine. Gently fold in the diced avocado. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the avocado to remain in chunks and not become mushy. The lime juice brightens the flavors and prevents the avocado from browning, while the avocado adds creamy richness at the end.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while warm. Offer optional toppings such as crumbled feta or cotija cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, hot sauce, and extra lime wedges on the side for customization. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note and visual appeal to the finished dish.

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet (per serving, approximate)

(Based on a recipe divided into 4 servings. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 ½ cups
• Calories: 350-400 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying and moderately calorie-dense meal, suitable for a balanced diet.
• Fiber: 10-12 grams per serving. Excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, satiety, and blood sugar control. Fiber is crucial for gut health and can help in weight management.
• Healthy Fats: 18-22 grams per serving. Primarily from avocado and olive oil, providing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. These healthy fats are essential for nutrient absorption and overall well-being.
• Vitamin A: Rich in Vitamin A, primarily from sweet potatoes and bell peppers. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. Sweet potatoes are an exceptional source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A.
• Potassium: Good source of potassium, mainly from sweet potatoes and black beans. Potassium is an important electrolyte that helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function. Maintaining adequate potassium levels is vital for overall health.

Preparation Time for Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

• Prep Time: 20 minutes. This includes peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, rinsing the black beans, and chopping cilantro. Efficient prep work makes the cooking process smooth and quick.
• Cook Time: 30 minutes. This includes sautéing the vegetables, cooking the sweet potatoes until tender, and heating through the beans and corn. The majority of the cooking time is dedicated to softening the sweet potatoes.
• Total Time: 50 minutes. From start to finish, this skillet meal is ready in under an hour, making it a great option for weeknight dinners. Relatively quick for a wholesome and flavorful meal.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

This Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways. Here are some ideas:

• As a Hearty Vegetarian Main Course: Serve it directly from the skillet as a satisfying and complete vegetarian meal. Its combination of vegetables, beans, and healthy fats makes it filling and nutritious.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Spoon the skillet mixture over cooked brown rice, quinoa, or other grains for a more substantial and balanced meal. The grains absorb the flavorful juices from the skillet.
• In Tacos or Burrito Bowls: Use it as a flavorful filling for tacos or burrito bowls. Pair it with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, sour cream, and shredded lettuce. This adds a fun and customizable element to the meal.
• With Eggs for Brunch: Top the skillet with fried or poached eggs for a protein-rich brunch option. The runny yolk adds extra richness and flavor.
• As a Side Dish: Serve it as a vibrant and flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It complements a variety of main courses.
• Stuffed in Bell Peppers: Stuff hollowed bell peppers with the skillet mixture and bake for a flavorful and visually appealing dish. This is a great way to add even more vegetables and create a complete meal.
• On Toast or Sweet Potato Toast: Spoon the skillet mixture over toasted bread or slices of roasted sweet potato for a delicious open-faced sandwich or appetizer. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors in a different format.
• With a Dollop of Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a cool and creamy contrast to the warm skillet. This enhances the texture and flavor profile.

Additional Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

1. Spice it Up (or Down): Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level. For a spicier skillet, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the onions and bell peppers. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes for Extra Flavor: For a deeper, caramelized flavor, roast the diced sweet potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender before adding them to the skillet. Toss them with a little olive oil and salt before roasting. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
3. Add Protein for a More Robust Meal: If you want to add more protein, consider incorporating cooked chicken, sausage, or chorizo to the skillet. You can also add crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost. Add cooked protein towards the end of the cooking process to heat through.
4. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, kale, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions. Add leafy greens towards the end of cooking so they wilt but don’t become mushy.
5. Don’t Overcook the Avocado: Add the diced avocado at the very end, after removing the skillet from the heat. Gently fold it in just until combined. Overmixing or cooking the avocado will make it mushy and lose its vibrant green color.
6. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the vegetable and sweet potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a skillet and add the avocado and lime juice just before serving. This is great for meal prepping.
7. Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a significant difference in flavor compared to bottled lime juice. It adds a brighter and more vibrant citrusy note that really enhances the dish.
8. Garnish Generously: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh garnishes. Chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the flavor and presentation of the skillet. Fresh herbs and toppings add layers of flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet

Q1: Can I make this Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet vegan?
A: Yes, absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as written. Just ensure you are using plant-based oil and omit any non-vegan toppings like feta cheese or sour cream. There are plenty of delicious vegan toppings like vegan sour cream or cashew cream that you can use instead.

Q2: How long does Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet last in the refrigerator?
A: The cooked skillet mixture (without the avocado) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to add the fresh avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning and becoming mushy. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before adding fresh avocado.

Q3: Can I freeze Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet?
A: While you can technically freeze the cooked vegetable and sweet potato mixture, it’s not recommended to freeze it with the avocado. Freezing and thawing can change the texture of the sweet potatoes and other vegetables slightly. If you want to freeze it, do so before adding the avocado and lime juice. Thaw completely and reheat before adding fresh avocado and lime juice.

Q4: Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
A: Yes, feel free to substitute black beans with other types of beans such as pinto beans, kidney beans, or white beans. Each type of bean will bring a slightly different flavor and texture profile to the dish. Experiment to find your favorite combination!

Q5: I don’t have smoked paprika. Can I use regular paprika?
A: Yes, you can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika. However, smoked paprika adds a distinct smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the skillet. If you have it, it’s definitely recommended. If not, regular paprika will still provide color and a mild pepper flavor.

Q6: Can I make this recipe without onion?
A: Yes, if you are not a fan of onions or have an allergy, you can omit the red onion. You might want to consider adding a bit more garlic powder to compensate for the flavor depth that onions provide. You can also try using shallots or leeks for a milder onion flavor.

Q7: Is Sweet Potato Avocado Skillet gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all your ingredients (especially spices and any toppings) are certified gluten-free if you have a severe gluten sensitivity. The base ingredients are all naturally gluten-free.

Q8: Can I add cheese to this skillet?
A: Absolutely! For a non-vegan option, crumbled feta cheese, cotija cheese, or shredded cheddar cheese would be delicious additions. Sprinkle cheese over the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking or as a topping when serving. Cheese adds a salty and savory element that complements the sweet potatoes and avocado beautifully.

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