20 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do With An Avocado
Avocado has been a staple in my diet for quite some time now. I put it in my smoothies and my salads and use it at just about every meal opportunity that will allow. Forget guacamole or on tacos — I'm talking full-on meals consisting of just avocado, or as I like to think of it, nature's butter. Avocado is considered a superfood in the health community and it's not surprising considering all the vital nutrients it contains like magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, phosphorous, and vitamins A, B1, B2 and B3. Interestingly enough, avocados even contain more potassium that bananas! [related]
It really is a miracle food. Avocados contain oleic acid — an extremely beneficial chemical for fighting inflammation, which has been linked to many serious illnesses like heart disease and cancer. Though the monosaturated oleic acid is considered a "heart healthy" fatty acid, it is also very high in fat. So yes, avocado is an incredible healthy food, but you don't want to be eating two to three of these a day — that might be overdoing it a bit.
The Haas avocado is the most popular avocado sold in the United States, although there are hundreds of different types of avocados. Most originate from West India, Guatamala, or Mexico; however, over the years, as the demand increased, many hybrids have been cultivated in the U.S. I prefer the Haas avocado above others, as it has a strong rich flavor and contains 18 to 22 percent oil, while also delivering maximum nutritional value.
Another huge advantage of avocados is their massive amount of protein. These things just keep getting better and better. The protein will help keep your energy levels up through-out the day so lunchtime is a great time to eat them. Get creative and don't be afraid to adjust these 2o recipes you didn't know you could do with your favorite fruit!
Avocado and Apple Chicken Salad
Chicken salad gets a pretty bad rap — we all think we know what to expect with it. But this recipe brings something fresh to the old favorite, and the pop of apple just makes the texture irresistible.
Avocado Egg Salad
Now this sounds like something I'd ordinarily run a mile from, but if you can get your head around the weirdness of this one, it's well worth it.
Click here for the Avocado Egg Salad Recipe
Creamy Avocado Tomato Soup
I love this recipe. I think it's a really clever way to add extra nutrients into your soup, while also being vegan friendly. Vegan recipes are often underwhelming, but this tomato soup is an exception.
Avocado and Mint Dressing
If you're anything like me, you make the same dressing every time you make a salad. Never fear, though — your prayers have been answered, and I am bringing you the answer to your never-ending weeks of boring salad.
Click here for the Avocado and Mint Dressing Recipe
Vegan Avocado Ceviche
Many people seem to think ceviche is difficult to make, but actually it's relatively easy. You don't even need to fillet your fish, the butcher can do that for you. This is a great, energy-filled meal.
Jalapeno and Avocado Margarita
Who doesn't love a margarita? Now you can kill two birds with one stone and get a healthy dose of nutrients with that buzz!
Avocado Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs have been longing for a makeover for quite some time now. These little gems will have you popping them like candy! It's a nice appetizer before dinner and an opportunity to give your guests something a little different.
Broiled Avocado and Eggs
This is a little bit of a strange one to get your head around, but once you've tried the delightfulness of this dish you won't look back. The bacon just gives it that extra oomph, and it's a great option if you're looking to cut the carbs.
Ayesha Curry’s Mango Crab Avocado Salad
There's nothing like the combination of crab and avocado, and with an extra kick of curry it just sends it to another level. I could eat this salad every day!
Click here for the Ayesha Curry's Mango Crab Avocado Salad Recipe
Bacon Wrapped Avocado Fries
Although this recipe might be a little heavy on the calories, it's well worth every bite! If you're a fan of spice, add a little dollop of chili to the bacon before you fry it for an extra kick.
Avocado Ice-Pops
These are a fantastic option for kids. They are healthy, delicious, and easy to make! I like to add a little bit of cinnamon to mine for some warmth, but feel free to experiment with different spices or flavors.
Click here for the Avocado Ice-Pops Recipe
Avocado Cheesecake
If you've been dreaming of a healthy way to eat cheesecake without the guilt, we've got you covered. This recipe is surprisingly light and the avocado adds a wonderful texture.
Grilled Avocado Pizza
I mean, these are essentially two of the most delicious things on Earth combined. How could it not be good? Making pizza is a really fun activity to do with your kids, and if you can get them to add some healthy avocado on top of theirs, all the better!
Tropical Avocado Smoothie
Many people drink a smoothie every morning before work, so there's been a lot of experimentation with different ingredients. Smoothie fans say that adding avocado or vegetables like kale to a smoothie can significantly curb appetite for the next couple of hours. This recipe is one of the best ways to do that!
Chocolate Habanero Cake With Chocolate Avocado Buttercream
Ah chocolate and chili powder! What a delicacy! This cake has a little bit of a kick, but what's interesting here is the buttercream icing that has avocado in it! It's outstanding.
Click here for the Chocolate Habanero Cake With Chocolate Avocado Buttercream Recipe
Avocado Ice Cream
This recipe is awesome as it doesn't require a complicated custard base. You can just blend everything together and voila!
Avocado Hair Mask
Avocado is a rich source of proteins, amino acids, and vitamins that help protect your scalp and promote strong, healthy hair growth. Now you can save some money on those expensive products and just make your own!
Click here for the Avocado Hair Mask Recipe
Grilled Avocado With Stuffed Tomato and Feta
Stuffed peppers are a classic dish, but this recipe might make you abandon your love for the pepper and commit fully to the stuffed avocado! You don't need to follow this recipe word for word — just work with what you have in your fridge and listen to your body.
Click here for the Grilled Avocado With Stuffed Tomato and Feta Recipe
Cucumber Avocado Face Mask
If you've had a long day at the office and need to give yourself some much needed "me time," this avocado face mask will help soothe your soul as well as your skin. Just remember to be careful around the eyes, and you'll see the hydrating effects immediately.
Avocado Hummus
It seems a bit odd to combine these two classic dips into a hybrid, but you will thoroughly enjoy this idea — and so will your guests! You may want to add a little extra chili for some spice or make some avocado inspired snacks for the big game!