Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we’ve always got an eye toward health and wellness, sometimes self-care and wellness looks a little different. As our needs shift, self-care might look like an over-the-top carpet picnic in the living room, or sweet treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the status quo, and that’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!

If you’re like most people, you have two things going on in your kitchen all the time: bananas that are about to expire, and that bagged salad in the back of your fridge, the one you always buy but never actually open, which is also about to expire. Today you’re on your own with the salad; we’re here to talk about the bananas. Things you can do with them that don’t involve banana bread… the banana bread you often have big ideas for baking but that you never get around to. Well I suppose that’s three things we all have going on. But I digress. 

One idea for bananas that are slightly overripe, about to become banana bread bananas, is to pan-fry them. It’s such a simple idea, and yet so wonderful. Warm and sweet, the flavors blend perfectly together. Given how simple the recipe is, this is about to become your go-to for all those bananas that don’t quite get eaten in time. Do be mindful that your bananas aren’t too ripe, you want them to stand up to cooking so they can’t be too mushy or they’ll just turn mushier in the pan. Your perfect bananas are ones that would no longer survive well in your bag or in your kiddo’s lunch box, but not so ripe that they fall apart if you handle them too strongly. 

Ingredients:

• 2 bananas Slightly Overripe
• 2 tablespoons sugar (you can substitute granulated Splenda, if you like)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Slice the bananas into rounds, approximately 1/3 inch thick.
2. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if desired). Set aside.
3. Lightly spray a large skillet with nonstick oil spray. Warm over medium heat.
4. Add the banana rounds and sprinkle 1/2 of the cinnamon mixture on top. 
5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip the rounds, sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon mixture
7. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the bananas are soft and warmed through.