Why eat an avocado?? I have to be honest here...for years I had no idea why anyone would want to eat avocados. I couldn't even look at one without my stomach turning...I just didn't like them! But after reading over and over about how good they are for you, I began to slowly work them into my diet and now I actually enjoy them! So here are some notes on avocados for you...
1) Packed with cartenoids...which protect your cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, provide a source of vitamin A, enhance the functioning of your immune and reproductive systems, & act as antioxidants.
2) They make you feel full...one avocado contains 3.5-4.0 grams of fiber. Your body needs fiber to keep the digestive system running smoothly, and soluble fibre slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in your body, helping you feel full longer.
3) Help protect your heart...one cup of avocado provides almost 1/4 the recommended daily intake of folate, a vitamin which is associated with a lower risk of heart attacks & heart disease. It also cuts the risk of birth defects so if you’re pregnant—or planning to be—avocados will help protect your unborn baby.
4) Help lower your cholesterol...high cholesterol is one of the main risk factors for heart disease. The cholesterol-lowering properties of avocado, along with its folate content, help keep your heart healthy.
5) They taste great!...avocados are a healthy way to boost the flavour and texture of your meals. Toss chopped avocado on a salad or bowl of soup, serve guacamole as an appetizer or condiment, or use avocado in place of mayonnaise in creamy dressings or on your sandwich.
And here's one for you...substitute half the butter in your favorite chocolate chip, quick-bread or brownie recipe with avocado. No, it won't turn your treats green, and no one will taste the difference. Really!
Jen's favorite Guacamole
3 ripe avocados
1/2 cup chopped tomato
2 Tablespoons cup finely chopped onion
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped (keep the seeds in if you like it spicy)
1 Tablespoon lime juice (use lemon in a pinch but lime is better)
1 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Cut each avocado in half &* remove seeds. Scoop out avocado pulp into a large bowl. Mash until desired consistency then add tomato and next 4 ingredients. Stir well. Top with black pepper if desired. Serve with cut raw veggies or pita chips.
*I think it's best if you let it sit in the fridge for a few hours before serving!
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