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Avocado

Photo of avocados
Photo of an avocado cut in half
Photo credits (left to right): Photo credits (top to bottom): Flickr: Olle Svensson; Flickr: emily.laurel504

Foods Included

Hass, Fuerte, Reed

Description

Avocados have a green-skinned, fleshy body that are egg-shaped or round. Commercial avocados ripen after harvesting. The fruit is rich and has a subtle flavor. The texture is smooth, almost creamy. It is used in both savory and sweet dishes. Avocados have a high fat content, but this fat is healthy. It is good for your skin, digestion, heart, and joint health.

How to Cut:

  • Cut avocado in half lengthwise around the pit.
  • Quickly hit the pit with a sharp knife and twist to free the pit. Discard.
  • Cube or slice each half, then scoop out with a spoon or knife.

How to Cut an Avocado

Buy It

  • Choose avocadoes that are firm but give slightly when pressed with a finger. These are ripe and ready to eat.
  • If you buy a hard avocado, leave it on your counter for a couple days to allow it to ripen.

Store It

  • Store unripe avocados at room temperature on the counter for 2-4 days.
  • Refrigerate when ripe for up to 5 days.

Cook It

  • Add avocados to salads and sandwiches
  • Spread on toast instead of butter
  • Blend into a smoothie.

Why It's Great

  • Vitamin E protects cells in our body from damage and keeps our immune system healthy.
  • Vitamin K helps our bodies heal quickly.
  • Potassium, a type of electrolyte, helps build muscle and keeps your heart healthy.
  • Fiber helps with healthy digestion and keeps us feeling full.  Eating enough fiber has been shown to keep our hearts healthy too.
  • Healthy fats are good for our skin and brain, and help us feel satisfied after a meal.

Try It

Avocado, Rice, and Beans
50 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe
Avocado Garden Salad
20 mins
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Mango and Avocado Fruit Salad
15 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe
Avocado Puree (Baby Food)
5 mins
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Avocado Salsa
10 mins
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Avocado Orange Soup
10 mins
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