I get really excited in the grocery store this time of year because avocado prices are at their lowest. Harris Teeter has had two-packs for $0.88 and I buy several on every visit! Avocados are amazing for you and deliciously satisfying as well.
Avocados are nutrient-rich containing folate and potassium as well as vitamins C, E and K. They are high in fiber and also rich in monounsaturated fats like olive oil. Avocados are heart-healthy, great for blood pressure and wonderful as part of a low-carb, high fiber diabetic diet. Avocados are even rich in carotenes which are powerful antioxidants. Lutein is included which is excellent for your eyesight.
Choose avocados that are just beginning to be tender to the touch. If you buy them hard, leave them on the counter for a few days to finish ripening. When storing cut avocados, leave the pit intact and wrap to minimize exposure to air. Lemon or lime juice work well to prevent browning.
My favorite ways to eat avocados are:
- Salted with Celtic salt and scooped out of the flesh
- Diced with grapefruit sections (and of course the Celtic salt)
- On sprouted toast with guess what…Celtic salt and even a drizzle of olive oil
- Guacamole!
By the way, Celtic salt is a very pure unrefined sea salt which is very rich in trace minerals and natural iodine, but low in sodium chloride. It s wonderful for the thyroid and easy on the blood pressure!
Avocado spread is a much healthier alternative to mayonnaise on your favorite sandwiches or wraps; and avocados make the cut during any meal or snack time. In fact, my best pudding and cake icing are made with avocados!
Talk about guilt-free pleasures! I have included some recipes to show you how versatile avocados can be. Be it brunch, a game-day party or dessert, amazing avocados are a menu must!
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/chocolate-avocado-pudding-2355927
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/avocado-and-grapefruit-salad-recipe-1917687
