Move over, apples and oranges. There’s a new fruit in town, and it’s called the avocado. This delicious fruit is becoming increasingly popular each year, and for a good reason – they are packed with nutrients that are good for your body. This guide will discuss everything you need to know.
We’ll cover topics such as nutrition, health benefits, how to select, how to store, and how to prepare them. So if you’re ready to learn about this fantastic fruit, keep reading!
Nutrition Facts
There’s no denying that avocados are delicious. But beyond their taste, they offer a host of health benefits. Here are just a few nutrition facts to help you make the most of this superfood:
Fiber is essential for keeping your digestive system healthy and regular. It contains 7 grams of fiber. That’s about 25% of the recommended daily intake for women and 17% for men. They are a good source of fiber.
Avocados are also an excellent source of antioxidants. These nutrients help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Not only do they provide essential nutrients, but they also contain healthy fats. They are one of the few fruits that contain monounsaturated fats, which are considered to be “good” fats. These healthy fats can help improve cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease.
Salads
I’m obsessed with salads. I love how they make me feel – light, healthy, and refreshed. And I particularly love salads with avocado.
The creaminess complements the greens’ crunch and the dressing’s acidity. It’s a heavenly combination.
Also, they contain nutrients like fiber, potassium, and vitamins A, E, and C. They taste great and are suitable for you too. So indulge in a delicious salad – your body will thank you for it!
Is Avocado a Fruit or a Vegetable?
Most people think of it as a vegetable, but it’s a fruit. Botanically, a fruit is the mature ovary of a flowering plant and the fruit of a tree. The word “avocado” comes from the Spanish word “aguacate,” which,” turn comes from the Nahuatl word “ahuacatl.”
How To Ripe
Here are a few tips on how to ripe avocado:
- First, buy one that’s already starting to soft. If it’s too hard, it won’t ripen properly.
- Leave it out on the counter at room temperature. If you need to speed up the process, put it in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana (both release ethylene gas, which will help it ripen faster).
- Check every day or two once it feels soft when you gently squeeze, ready to eat!
- To store a ripe avocado, keep it in the fridge. It should last for 3-4 days.
How to Cut
Cutting an avocado can be tricky. If you cut it commissary, it will be hard and unripe. If you cut it too late, it will be mushy and overripe. So how do you know when to cut?
The best time to cut is when it’s soft but not too mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by cutting the avocado in half lengthwise.
- Next, twist the two halves apart.
- Remove the pit from one of the halves (you can do this by gently hitting it with a knife and turning it or scooping it out with a spoon).
- Now you’re ready to start slicing, dicing, or mashing your fruit!
How to Store
One of the most common questions people have about avocados is how to store them. After all, they can be tricky to keep fresh. Here are a few tips on how to store:
- If your avocado is unripe, leave it on the counter at room temperature.
- Once it’s ripe, you can keep it in the fridge.
- To keep a cut avocado from turning brown, sprinkle it with lemon juice or vinegar before storing it in the refrigerator.
Recipes
My favorite way to eat them is to slice them in half, remove the pit, and then add a little bit of lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper.
I’ll sometimes add other things like diced tomatoes or cucumbers, depending on what I’m feelin’ that day.
Another great way to use it is in guacamole! All you need is some avocado, lime juice, diced onions, tomatoes, and jalapeno peppers (optional).
You can either mash it with a fork or blend it in a food processor until it’s smooth. Then mix everything and enjoy!