I can’t get enough of this extremely versatile fruit! Often called “alligator pear,” because it tends to be shaped like a pear and have green, bumpy skin… like an alligator.
So what, exactly, makes this pear-shaped berry so popular for a healthy diet? Avocados are packed with beneficial nutrients, minerals, and plant compounds. Loaded with fiber, they are rich are rich in monounsaturated fat (the good fat) that is easily burned for energy. They contain less than 1 gram of sugar, zero cholesterol, no sodium, and have lots of potassium (move over bananas).
Avocados have more of the carotenoid lutein than any other commonly consumed fruit. Lutein protects against macular degeneration and cataracts, two disabling age-related eye diseases. They are a good source of several vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, and may have benefits for heart health and arthritis.
Whether eaten alone, added to meals or included as an ingredient in a variety of recipes, avocados are a great way to add flavor, produce, and nutrients to your plate.
Try avocados in the following ways:
– Add them to salads, soups, omelets, or sandwiches
– Whip up a batch of guacamole and serve with vegetables
– Blend them into smoothies
– Use as a fat replacement when baking (think avocado brownies)
One of my favorite quick lunch or breakfast recipes is Avo-Toast.
Here’s how to make it.
Avo – Toast is one of the simplest things to make and is a great go-to breakfast or lunch. Simply toast two slices of good-quality bread (whole or sprouted grain bread packs the best nutrition), smash half an avocado on top of each slice. Cut a lime in half and squeeze the juice over the avocado. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and any other seasonings that tickle your fancy such as red pepper flakes. Enjoy.
Tip: An avocado should feel slightly soft when ripe. The nutrients in avocado can oxidize soon after fleshing it that causes it to turn brownish (like an apple), so be sure to add lemon or lime juice to slow down the process.
Click HERE for recipes, nutrition facts and prep and store tips.
Avocados are very filling, incredibly nutritious and taste really good making them and excellent addition to a healthy, low glycemic lifestyle.
Enjoy……
