Avocado aficionado

Avocados: they’re mean, green, taste bud-pleasing machines. Avocados are the Superman of fruit—high in vitamins and potassium, and good for your cholesterol. And it doesn’t hurt that they taste amazing. Used in entrées, dips, desserts and even cosmetic products, there’s no denying that avocados are the best, no matter how you slice, dice or scoop them. Here’s a perfect way to enjoy your fav superfruit.

Avocado Toast
Simple, easy avocado toast. This dish is easy to make, and perfect for a quick, healthy snack after school or a sports practice. Plus, the smell of the garlic bread paired with the zest of fresh lime and avocado is sure to attract a crowd—if you’re into sharing. Recipe courtesy of twopeasandtheirpod.com.

What you’ll need:

  • 1 loaf of French or Italian bread, sliced
  • Spreadable butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2-3 ripe avocados (depending on how much toast you’re making)
  • 1 lime

Directions:
-Heat oven to 375°F. Slice the bread and drizzle olive oil over the slices. If desired, spread a mixture of minced garlic and butter over each, then put them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until they’re nicely toasted
-Remove the pits and scoop the avocado into a bowl. Mash the avocado using a fork until it has a smooth consistency. Mix in a little bit of salt, a lot of pepper, and squeeze about a tablespoon of lime juice into the mixture.
-Spread the avocado mixture onto the slices of toast and serve right away. Enjoy!

Chocolate Avocado Icing
Want a healthy way to enjoy dessert? Try chocolate avocado icing! This frosting tastes kind of like a light mousse, with an interesting combination of different sweet flavors and heavy undertones of avocado. The icing would go well on cupcakes or brownies, could top off an ice cream dish, or you can just eat it with a spoon! Recipe courtesy ofloveandlemons.com

What you’ll need:

  • 2 ripe avocados
  • ¼ cup chopped baking chocolate
  • ¼ unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup agave
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup almond milk
  • A pinch of salt

Directions:
Use the microwave or a double boiler to melt the chocolate. Let it cool a little bit, then pour it in a food processor and mix in the rest of the ingredients. Allow the icing to chill in the fridge for at least 15-20 minutes before using.

Avocado Pasta
Creamy, delicious avocado pasta. This dish puts a whole new spin on pesto, with the sweetness of the avocado combining with garlic and fresh basil for a thick, unique flavor that will make your mouth water. Top this dish off with parmesan cheese to add some sharp flavor. It tastes delicious served both cold or hot. Recipe courtesy ofohsheglows.com

What you’ll need:

  • Half a box of pasta (any kind you want)
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic (you can add more or less depending on your taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 tablespoon of water
  • ¼-½ teaspoon salt and pepper
  • Lemon zest to drizzle over top upon serving
    Directions:
    Cook the pasta based on the package directions. While the pasta cooks, use a food processor to combine the garlic and basil (pulse to mince). Add lemon juice, olive oil, avocado and water. Process until smooth, and add a bit more olive oil if the sauce is too thick. Add salt and pepper. Once cooked, drain the pasta and place it back in the pot. Add the avocado sauce and stir until combined fully. For serving, the pasta can be reheated gently. Add salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, fresh basil and sliced cherry tomatoes if you like. Enjoy!