Introduction
Avocado Mojo Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dressing that elevates any dish, particularly roasted vegetables and proteins. This zesty sauce combines creamy avocado with tangy orange juice and garlic, creating a delicious complement to your meals. When paired with roasted sweet potatoes, red onions, and your favorite protein, this dish transforms into a nutritional powerhouse.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Avocado oil: 1/3 cup
Avocado: 1/2
Orange juice: 1/4 cup
White vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Garlic: 1 clove
Cilantro (leaves and stems): 1/4 cup packed
Coarse kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess): 1/4 cup
Bowls:
Sweet potatoes: 2
Red onion: 1
Avocado oil: 2 tablespoons
Taco seasoning: 2 tablespoons
Smoked paprika (optional): pinch
Protein of choice (e.g., chicken meatballs or rotisserie chicken)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 2-4 servings
Instructions
1. Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into wedges or desired shape. Place them on a large baking sheet, toss with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Onions: Peel the red onion and cut it into thin wedges. Arrange the onion wedges around the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet.
3. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for a total of 35 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the sheet, flip the sweet potatoes and onions, and add the protein (e.g., pre-cooked chicken meatballs or rotisserie chicken) to the sheet. Return to the oven for the remaining 15 minutes.
4. Sauce: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine all the Avocado Mojo Sauce ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve: Pour a portion of the Avocado Mojo Sauce onto each plate or bowl. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and protein. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into wedges or your desired shape. Place them on a large baking sheet, tossing them with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning until they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Prepare Onions
Peel the red onion and cut it into thin wedges. Arrange the onion wedges around the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for a total of 35 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the sheet from the oven, flip the sweet potatoes and onions, and add your protein (such as pre-cooked chicken meatballs or rotisserie chicken) to the sheet. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for the remaining 15 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Avocado Mojo Sauce
While the sweet potatoes and onions are roasting, combine all the Avocado Mojo Sauce ingredients (avocado oil, avocado, orange juice, vinegar, garlic, cilantro, kosher salt, and mayonnaise) in a blender or food processor. Blend the mixture until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Pour a portion of the Avocado Mojo Sauce onto each plate or bowl. Top with a generous serving of roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and your chosen protein. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
Note 1: Sweet Potato Variations
You can cut the sweet potatoes into different shapes such as cubes or rounds for varied texture and appearance.
Note 2: Protein Options
Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like grilled shrimp, tofu, or beans to suit dietary preferences.
Note 3: Adjusting Seasoning
When blending the sauce, you can add more salt or citrus to enhance flavor according to your taste preferences.
Note 4: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat roasted vegetables in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Cook techniques
Roasting Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cut sweet potatoes into desired shapes. Toss with oil and seasoning, then roast until tender and slightly crispy.
Preparing Onions
Peel and slice red onions into thin wedges. Arrange around other ingredients on the baking sheet for roasting.
Combining Ingredients for Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine avocado oil, avocado, orange juice, white vinegar, garlic, cilantro, salt, and mayonnaise (if using). Blend until smooth.
Timing for Roasting
Roast sweet potatoes for a total of 35 minutes, flipping halfway through and adding the protein during the last 15 minutes.
Adjusting Sauce Seasoning
After blending the sauce, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary to achieve the desired flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use other types of oil for the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute avocado oil with olive oil or another mild oil of your choice.
Is the mayonnaise necessary for the sauce?
No, the mayonnaise is optional and is used only for added creaminess. You can omit it for a lighter sauce.
What proteins work well with this dish?
Chicken, turkey, or any pre-cooked protein such as rotisserie chicken work well. Vegetarian options like beans or tofu can be used too.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Avocado Mojo Sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cilantro?
You can use parsley or omit it entirely, though it won’t have the same unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Avocado Mojo Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful addition to your meals, elevating simple roasted vegetables and proteins with its creamy and zesty notes. The combination of avocado oil, fresh cilantro, and citrus creates a delightful balance that enhances any dish. This sauce is versatile, nutritious, and can transform a regular meal into something special.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grain Bowls
Use quinoa or brown rice as a base and top with roasted vegetables and your choice of protein, drizzled generously with Avocado Mojo Sauce.
Fish Tacos
Grill or pan-sear fish fillets, layer them in soft tortillas, and add a refreshing slaw. Finish with a drizzle of Avocado Mojo Sauce for a zesty touch.
Charcuterie Board
Incorporate the Avocado Mojo Sauce into a charcuterie board with cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, nuts, and rustic bread for an unexpected dip.
Salad Dressing
Thin the Avocado Mojo Sauce with additional orange juice or water to create a vibrant salad dressing that can enhance mixed greens or grain salads.
Vegetable Wraps
Spread Avocado Mojo Sauce on whole-grain wraps, fill with grilled or roasted vegetables, and add protein like hummus or chicken for a hearty meal.
