For the Love of Avocado

Summer and avocados go together like margaritas and salt – but (fun fact) avocados actually reach their peak season in early fall. (Really!) So no matter the season, there are a variety of ways in which to enjoy this delicious fruit.

Perhaps you’ll try a savory dip packed with healthy goodies like kale and pumpkin seeds? And there’s a reason guac is a total crowd-pleaser: It’s the perfect way to capture summer flavors. But even without tacos on the menu, you can still enjoy it — try a Mediterranean-inspired tartine with freshly grilled shrimp and a healthy dose of greens.

Avocado Recipe #1: Avocado Pumpkin Seed Dip

An earthy twist on classic guacamole, this avocado pumpkin seed dip will be an absolute hit no matter the season.

No matter the season, this fruit can be used in a variety of recipes. (Photo Credit: Saymom Leao)

Avocado Pumpkin Seed Dip

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 3 Ripe avocados
• 1/2 Bunch Lacinto kale (blanched)
• 1/2 Cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Cup Pumpkin seeds
• 2 tbsp Lime juice
• t tbsp Salt

Method

 

1. Pulse all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
2. Pour into a bowl and stir to mix, adding water until a desired consistency is reached.
3. Serve with fresh tortilla chips.

Avocado Recipe #2: Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Tartine

Because shrimp and avocado just go together.

Avocado, shrimp, and bread: Yes, please. (Photo Credit: Loa Kon)

Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Tartine

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

For the shrimp

• 12 Gulf shrimp (21/25 size)
• 1 tbsp BBQ spice (Cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and onion powder to taste)
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the guacamole

• 4 Ripe avocados
• 2 Lemons, juiced
• 1 Lime, juiced
• 1/2 Red onion, minced
• 1 Bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 Bunch scallions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 Bunch of watercress

4 Slices of Italian or French bread, sliced 1" thick

Method

 

1. Pre-heat the grill.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with the BBQ spice, lemon juice, and olive oil. Marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes or until ready to grill.
3. In another bowl or in a food processor, combine the guacamole ingredients. Set aside.
4. When the grill is at temperature, brush the slices of bread with the extra olive oil and season with salt and pepper, and grill until crisp and slightly charred.
5. Grill the shrimp until just slightly cooked, turning as needed.
6. Top the slices of bread with the guacamole, and then add the shrimp and garnish with watercress.

Which recipe will you pick? We can’t wait to find out.

If looking for more Spring cooking tips, check out these recipes and these mocktails.