Transform your snack or side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe for *Heart-Healthy Fried Plantains with Cheese*! Featuring naturally sweet ripe plantains, pan-fried to perfection in heart-smart extra virgin olive oil, and topped with creamy low-fat feta cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a drizzle of zesty lime juice, and a light seasoning of sea salt and black pepper elevate the flavors to new heights. With only 20 minutes of cook time, this quick and easy recipe makes a wholesome, crowd-pleasing option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether served on its own or alongside your favorite dishes, this guilt-free twist on fried plantains is loaded with bold flavors and mindful ingredients that every food lover will adore!
Peel the plantains by cutting off the ends and slicing through the peel length-wise, careful not to cut into the flesh. Then, remove the peel gently.
Slice the plantains at a diagonal angle into 1/2-inch thick pieces for optimal cooking and presentation.
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Ensure the oil coats the entire bottom of the skillet.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the plantain slices to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd them. You may need to fry in batches.
Fry the plantains for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spatula to flip them gently.
Transfer the fried plantains to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Sprinkle the plantains with the sea salt and black pepper while they are still hot.
Crumble the low-fat feta cheese over the warm plantains evenly.
Roughly chop the fresh cilantro and sprinkle it over the dish for added flavor and garnish.
Drizzle fresh lime juice over the plantains and cheese before serving.
Serve the dish warm as a heart-healthy alternative to traditional fried plantains. Enjoy!
Calories |
1284 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 51.3 g | 66% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.5 g | 88% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 128 mg | 43% | |
| Sodium | 4264 mg | 185% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 171.5 g | 62% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.9 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 83.7 g | ||
| Protein | 58.1 g | 116% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1223 mg | 94% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 2726 mg | 58% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.