I love avocados. As a matter of fact, I ate half of one today. Slices of the green, buttery goodness just found its way inside my turkey sandwich. When my 19-month old saw me cut open the avocado he ran over and started opening and closing his mouth like a little bird. Using a teaspoon I scooped some out for him. A few mouthfuls later and all that was left was the peel. He looked at me and said “More.” Roy has good taste. And if you’re wondering, avocado is a fruit because it has a pit. If only avocado trees could handle Wisconsin winter. Sigh. Here are 5 reasons why avocados are my favorite fruit:
1. Avocados are a powerhouse food. Nutritionally, they are loaded with monounsaturated fat (the good fat), high in dietary fiber and provide numerous vitamins and phyto-nutrients.
2. Avocados taste great! They are rich, creamy and have a unique flavor. And how else can I make guacamole?
3. They perfectly complement Mexican cuisine. Sizzling Chicken Fajitas, Chicken Enchilada Soup and Chili Pie are a few of my recipe posts where avocados make great condiments.
4. Avocados leave you satisfied. Unlike other foods that are high in simple carbohydrates, you’re not left craving more carbs. Remember my saying, “Carbs beget carbs”? Avocados have only 1 gram of sugar per serving and 10 grams of dietary fiber. They’re a great way to bulk out sandwiches, salads or to just have on the side.
5. Avocados travel well. They come in their very own package and don’t need to be refrigerated. You can take one with you to work for lunch, and if it needs to ripen you can just stick it in your desk drawer. Just a reminder, when you cut open an avocado, they will turn brown quickly. But don’t worry, the brown color doesn’t mean it’s gone bad. It’s just oxidation taking place . . . like when you cut an apple. Squirting some lemon juice on it (high in vitamin C) will help keep its bright green color.