Why enjoy avocados?!
First, they are delicious! Not everyone thinks so, and some cannot get over the texture, but even just adding a bit of s & p can really upgrade the flavor of this fruit.
Yes, avocados are a fruit. But, atypical to other fruits, they are high in heart healthy monounsaturated fats (the same type of fat in olive oil) and have fewer natural sugars. Avocados are also a great source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Avocado Nutrition
Based on the % daily value, 1/2 cup avocado provides approximately:
120 calories
10-15 grams fat
22% vitamin B5
18% fiber
17.5% vitamin K
15% copper
15% folate
11% vitamin B6
10% vitamin E
10% vitamin C
Avocado Versatility
I love avocados because they can be eaten as is, sliced over rice cakes, bread, on tacos, on salads, etc. But, they can also be used in a variety recipes, both savory and sweet! From dips and spreads to pudding and brownies, avocados make so many dishes both healthier and tasty.
RECIPE
Ingredients
3 avocados, quartered
1/3 cup (60 g) red onion, finely chopped
5 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped
1 Tbs garlic, minced
1 Tbs lime juice
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp cumin
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
Prepare avocados. I just recently learned a great tip for cutting up an avocado by slicing it into quarters! Slice an avocado lengthwise into the flesh and around the pit, but not through the pit. Do the same thing on the other side so that you end up with 4 quarters. Take the pit out and peel the skin off of the avocado slices and add them to a mixing bowl. Do this with the other 2 avocados.
Mash the avocado until it's a smooth, slightly chunky consistency.
Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until well combined.
Enjoy with chips, vegetables, on wraps/sandwiches, etc.!