Guacamole With Charred Jalapeno and Scallions

Ingredients

• 3 medium scallions, white and tender green parts only
• 2 medium garlic cloves, unpeeled
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and quartered lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 avocados, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons lime juice, fresh
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (to taste)

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat a grill pan.

2. 2

   In small bowl, toss scallions, garlic and jalapeno with the vegetable oil.

3. 3

   Grill over moderately high heat, turning occasionally, until charred all over, 5-6 minutes.

4. 4

   Transfer to a work surface and let cool.

5. 5

   Finely chop scallions and jalapeno and transfer to a medium bowl.

6. 6

   Peel the garlic cloves, mash them to a paste and add to the bowl.

7. 7

   Scoop the avocado into the bowl and coarsely mash with a fork.

8. 8

   Fold the cilantro and lime juice into the guacamole, season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.

9. 9

   Variation.

10. 10

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