Looking for a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing?
Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes, the crispiness of baked sweet potato fries, and the zesty freshness of avocado salsa.
This unique combination offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and nutrient-rich plant-based meal.
Why Sweet Potato Fries?
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to regular fries. They are naturally sweet, packed with fiber, and rich in beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A).
When baked, they become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a perfect complement to the creamy mashed potatoes.
The Freshness of Avocado Salsa
Avocado salsa adds a vibrant and refreshing element to this meal.
Made with creamy avocados, fresh tomatoes, red onion, and lime juice, it’s a zesty topping that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the mashed potatoes and the sweetness of the fries.
Plus, avocados are a great source of healthy fats and essential vitamins.
Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
For the Sweet Potato Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden on the edges.
- Cook the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the fries are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the plant-based milk and olive oil or vegan butter to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
- Prepare the Avocado Salsa:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Divide the mashed potatoes between plates. Arrange the crispy sweet potato fries alongside and top everything with a generous serving of avocado salsa.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, balanced, and colorful plant-based meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 3mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Combination of Flavors and Textures: The creamy mashed potatoes, crispy sweet potato fries, and refreshing avocado salsa create a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and zesty flavors.
- Nutrient-Rich and Wholesome: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, while avocados provide healthy fats and essential nutrients, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
- Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is easy to customize. Add more spices to the sweet potato fries, mix in different veggies for the salsa, or swap the mashed potatoes for a cauliflower mash for a lower-carb option.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a side dish, or a crowd-pleasing meal for a gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Sweet Potato Fries and Avocado Salsa is a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based meal that combines the best of creamy, crispy, and fresh elements.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this dish is a delicious and nutrient-dense option that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.
Serve this meal with a fresh side salad or a bowl of roasted vegetables for an even more complete and balanced plate. Enjoy!
