Avocado: The Green Fruit that Keeps on Giving

Avocado is equivalent to a summertime dream. Why? It makes your hair shine, your skin glow, and your body burn fat while simultaneously fighting disease. In first thought, it is often known as the culprit in Mi Cocina’s addicting guacamole or otherwise referred to as the substance that sticks to your thighs. Take note: yes, avocado is high in calories, but when consumed in moderation, it is a powerful fat-burning agent.Is it just me, or does this fruit have an element of refreshment? Maybe it's just the lime green color, or the fact that it aids in forming a heightened internal metabolism to keep your body in bikini shape. For all it's worth (AKA a source of GOOD fat), this superfood deserves some attention. Here are fun new recipes to sneak into your diet that ignite the health benefits of this yummy treat. It's time to take use of this dynamic source of omega-3. Are you on board?

To jump start the morning:

Avocado Breakfast Pudding (Serves 2)

1 ripe avocado1/2 c. 1% milk1 Tbsp. honey3 Tbsp. slivered almondsBlend first three ingredients until smooth. Garnish with granola or almonds.

Source & nutritional ingredients: Vital Juice______

For a mid-day meal:

Simple SaladHere we have (with absolutely no measurements, as usual):

Roasted Brussels Sprout and Avocado SaladMixed garden greensRed onionAvocadoRoasted brussels sprouts: cut in half. toss with olive oil and salt and pepper. roast until toasty brown.

For extra pizzaz and protein, throw in an egg fried in a bit of olive oil.Honey mustard dressing:

One part white wine vinegar to two parts olive oilA dollop of dijon mustardA large drizzle of honeySalt and pepper

Add dressing ingredients to a small jar and give it a good shake.  Toss with salad and enjoy!Source_____

For dinner-time:

Try this dip with grilled skewers. Choose your favorite meat and veggies!Avocado Cilantro Dip (Makes about 1 cup of dip)

1/2 cup thick greek yogurtJuice from 1 lemon1 avocado (average Haas size is good – about 6-8 ounces)1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, stems removed1 tablespoon capersPinch of black pepperPinch of garlic saltPinch of smoked paprikaOptional: If you love garlic you can add a clove, extra cilantro leaves

Source_____

To top off the day with a sweet treat:

Avocado Chocolate Pudding

2 ripe avocados½ cup of unsweeted cocoa powder½ cup maple syrup or agave nectar2 teaspoons vanilla

Cut open 2 large avocados and spoon them out into a bowl. Beat well until the avocado is a creamy mouse-like consistency. Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla. Beat until all ingredients are mixed evenly. Serve immediately, or refrigerate and serve later.