Guacamole with Charred Jalapeño and Scallions

• Recipe by Grace Parisi

F&W’s Grace Parisi invented this smoky guacamole.

Ingredients

1. 3 medium scallions, white and tender green parts only
2. 2 medium garlic cloves, unpeeled
3. 1 jalapeño, seeded and quartered lengthwise
4. 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
5. 3 Hass avocados, halved and pitted
6. 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves
7. 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
8. Salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions

1. Preheat a grill pan. In a small bowl, toss the scallions, garlic and jalapeño with the vegetable oil. Grill over moderately high heat, turning occasionally, until charred all over, 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a work surface and let cool.
2. Finely chop the scallions and jalapeño and transfer to a medium bowl. Peel the garlic cloves, mash them to a paste and add them to the bowl. Scoop the avocado flesh into the bowl and coarsely mash with a fork. Fold the cilantro and lime juice into the guacamole, season with salt and pepper and serve.

Make Ahead

Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate overnight.

Notes

Variation: For a brighter, crunchier guacamole, finely chop the scallions, garlic and jalapeño and stir them in raw.