In California, avocados are a year round treat. And we avail ourselves of them regularly as the basis for some of the best quick fix, high health value meals we make.
The avocado is a fruit, native to South and Central America. The first avocados came to the United States in 1871, when trees were planted in Santa Barbara, California. (Incidentally, there are now over 7,000 avocado groves here in our home state – we knew we loved this place for good reason!)
On average, one avocado contains 300 calories, has more potassium than a banana, is high in the nutrient lutein (great for the eyes!), as well as Vitamins B, A, C, E and K, has the more protein than any other fruit, and is made of a high percentage of fiber. And while their high fat content has scared more than a few people away (20 to 25% fat) this is good (monounsaturated) fat. In fact, avocados can actually help when you are working to improve cholesterol. They are the perfect all around food, and not to be topped as a simple, complete snack. So, put down that cookie and grab an avocado today.
And if you can’t quite figure out how to work the avocado into your daily routine, here are a few ways we make sure to get our dose if this fabulous green fruit:
Slice some avocado on rice cakes, drizzle with lemon juice, add a little salt and pepper to taste, and you have a terrific mid-morning snack. Spread a little avocado on toast – seasoned with some lemon juice and a little salt – along with some fresh goat cheese (chevre is great) for a healthy lunch. Or serve half an avocado with salad dressing or pesto….
Fennel, Avocado and Orange Salad
Guacamole
Marinated Chicken, Avocado and Spinach Pasta Salad
Share this:
Come and Cook with Us 