black bean plantain avacado salsa (Mediterranean Twist)
Golden-crispy smashed plantain tostones topped with herby black beans, lemon, olive oil, and creamy yogurt-tahini drizzle. Crunchy outside, tender inside, and packed with plant protein and fiber.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Tostones
2 green plantains (firm, unripe)
Olive oil (for frying or baking)
Sea salt, to taste
For the Black Bean Topping
1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro
½ tsp ground cumin (optional, mild)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Yogurt-Tahini Drizzle (Optional but recommended)
¼ cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Water to thin
Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Plantains
1. Cut ends off plantains, slit the peel lengthwise, and remove skin.
2. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. Fry in olive oil over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
(For healthier option: bake at 220°C / 425°F for 15 minutes, flipping once.)
2️⃣ Smash & Crisp
1. Remove plantains and gently smash each with a glass.
2. Return to oil (or oven) and cook until crispy and golden.
3. Sprinkle with salt.
3️⃣ Make the Black Bean Topping
1. Warm olive oil in a pan.
2. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Stir in black beans, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove from heat and mix in herbs.
4️⃣ Yogurt-Tahini Drizzle
Whisk all ingredients until smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Assemble
Top each tostone with black beans
Drizzle with yogurt-tahini
Garnish with parsley, olives, or feta (optional)
💡 Tips
Use green plantains only for crisp texture
Air-fryer works great at 200°C / 390°F
Add chopped cucumber or tomato for freshness
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQs
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free yogurt or just tahini-lemon sauce.
Can I make ahead?
Beans can be made 2 days ahead. Tostones are best fresh.
Is it weight-loss friendly?
Yes—bake or air-fry and control oil.
🧮 Nutritional Information
Calories: 290
Protein: 11g
Fiber: 9g
Healthy Fats: 14g