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Unique Ways to Use Avocado in Recipes
Avocado, with its creamy texture and rich taste, has become a staple ingredient in kitchens worldwide, esteemed not only for its flavors but also for its health benefits. While guacamole might be the most well-known dish, avocados have a place in a multitude of recipes. From refreshing salads to innovative desserts, this blog post explores a suite of unique avocado uses. Discover how this versatile fruit can elevate traditional dishes and bring a fresh twist to your everyday meals. Let’s dive into these mouth-watering recipes that are sure to inspire even the most seasoned cook to think outside the guacamole bowl.
Melon and Avocado Crudo
This refreshing dish combines the subtle sweetness of melon with the creamy texture of avocado, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Thinly slice your choice of melon, such as cantaloupe or honeydew, and pair them with equally thin avocado slices. Season with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the natural flavors.
To add a touch of acidity, squeeze fresh lime juice over the crudo and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve this elegant dish as an appetizer or a light summer salad that perfectly balances sweet, creamy, and tangy elements for a refreshing culinary experience.
All A’s Spring Salad With Mahi-Mahi
A vibrant blend of fresh ingredients, this salad highlights avocado as a creamy complement to the pescado of your choice, though mahi-mahi takes center stage. Grill the mahi-mahi until flaky, allowing its flavor to take on a smoky nuance. Combine with chunks of avocado, artichokes, and asparagus for a spring-inspired medley.
Top the salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette that infuses each bite with tangy brightness. This dish not only satisfies with its diverse textures but also delivers a packed punch of nutrients. Perfect for a lunch that is as energizing as it is delicious, this salad celebrates the first bloom of spring with every ingredient.
Molletes
Originating from Mexican cuisine, molletes are open-faced sandwiches bursting with flavors and textures. Traditionally made with bolillo rolls, they are topped with a spread of refried beans and melted cheese. To add a modern twist, include cubes of avocado, which add creaminess and richness to each bite.
Personalize your molletes with a layer of fresh salsa or a burst of pico de gallo for added freshness. Whether served as a breakfast dish or a hearty snack, molletes with avocado are a fulfilling comfort food that invites endless creativity with toppings.
Eggplant Tortas Milanesa
Transform the classic Tortas Milanesa into a vegetarian favorite by using crispy breaded eggplant slices instead of the traditional meat filling. The rich eggplant offers a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of sliced avocado.
Layer the torta with pickled onions, lettuce, and a smear of chipotle mayo to create a complex flavor profile that captures both earthy and spicy notes. This delicious sandwich is perfect for anyone seeking a meatless option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
BA’s Best Guacamole
Embrace the classic guacamole with a recipe that elevates traditional elements. Start by mashing ripe avocados to the perfect creamy consistency, then add finely chopped red onions, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a dash of salt.
For a twist, incorporate finely diced jalapeños to give your guacamole just the right kick of heat. Serve this robust guacamole with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, and watch it disappear within moments.
Mango and Avocado Salad
Combine two of nature’s sweetest offerings in a colorful salad that highlights the textural contrasts between mango and avocado. Dice ripe mango and avocado into bite-sized pieces, then toss them together in a bowl for a delightful mix.
Create a dressing with olive oil, lime juice, and a hint of chili for added spice. This salad can be enhanced with sliced red onion and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for additional flavor depth, making it an ideal side dish for summer barbecues or a standalone salad on warm days.
Avocado Water
For a refreshing beverage, try avocado water, a hydrating drink that captures the fruit’s essence without its heaviness. Blend ripe avocado with cold water, a bit of lime juice, and a touch of sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
Strain the mixture to ensure a smooth drink, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. This unconventional beverage complements light lunches or serves as a rejuvenating drink post-workout.
Flatbread With Avocado and Scallion Salsa
Transform store-bought or home-made flatbreads into a culinary delight by topping them with a vibrant avocado and scallion salsa. Begin by mashing avocados and mixing in freshly chopped scallions, lime juice, and pepper for an aromatic topping.
Spread this salsa over warm flatbread and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. As a delicious appetizer or a novel main course, this flatbread is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quick and easy lunch.
Spring Chicken Salad With Smashed Green Beans
The wholesome flavors of juicy grilled chicken combine with creamy avocado in this lively spring salad. Serve the chicken alongside smashed green beans and perhaps even radishes for a vegetable-rich dish that engages the palate.
A light, lemony dressing ties the flavors together, accentuating the freshness of each ingredient. This colorful salad can be made in advance and served cold, making it a convenient meal for outdoor gatherings or meal prep.
Warm 7-Layer Skillet Dip
Elevate a party favorite with this warm skillet dip that brings all the classic seven-layer flavors together with an avocado twist. Begin with a warm base of refried beans and melted cheese, then layer chopped tomatoes, olives, and jalapeños for a taste sensation.
Finish the dip with generous dollops of sour cream and mashed avocado for a creamy, textured top, garnished with fresh cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips and watch as it becomes the star attraction at any get-together.
Grapefruit Crudo
Delicately sliced grapefruit joins forces with creamy avocado in this elegant crudo dish. By balancing the tartness of grapefruit with avocado’s smooth texture, you have a dish that’s as refreshing as it is sophisticated.
A drizzle of olive oil, lime juice, and a sprinkle of sea salt completes the palate-pleasing profile of this crudo, making it an ideal appetizer or brunch dish that appeals to gourmet sensibilities.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Add a southwestern twist to an iconic salad by incorporating avocado into the mix. Replace traditional croutons with tortilla strips for added crunch, and create a dressing with lime juice, parmesan, and a hint of smoked paprika for depth.
This reimagined Caesar salad not only features romaine leaves tossed in vibrant flavors but also integrates cubes of avocado for a creamy finish. The Tex-Mex Caesar is both a hearty and refreshing salad perfect for diverse culinary gatherings.
Chocolate-Almond Fridge Fudge
Indulge in the creamy decadence of this no-cook fudge where avocados take the place of butter. Melt chocolate and blend it with ripe avocado, almond butter, and a touch of vanilla to create a rich, smooth mixture.
Spread this mixture into a lined tray and chill until firm for an easy, luscious dessert. Each bite offers the velvety texture of fudge with the added health benefits of avocado, making it an ideal treat for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth more healthily.
Gochujang-Ranch Crispy Chicken Bowl
The spicy, savory flavors of gochujang meet the cool creaminess of ranch dressing in this bold chicken bowl. Pair crispy pieces of chicken with avocado slices, steamed white rice, and assorted vegetables for a complete meal.
Drizzle gochujang and ranch over the bowl to tie the flavors together. This dish offers an explosion of tastes and textures that are sure to satisfy adventurous eaters and lovers of fusion cuisine.
Salsa Verde o Roja Cruda
Salsa lovers unite! Avocado serves as a creamy base for these raw salsas. Blend ripe avocado with tomatillos, cilantro, and green chilies for a fresh verde take, or switch with red tomatoes for a more classic salsa roja.
Whether verde or roja, serving this salsa with homemade tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos adds a fresh, invigorating twist to any meal. Perfect for a party snack or simply to spice up a weekday dinner.
Red Snapper, Shrimp, and Watermelon Ceviche
Ceviche marries land and sea with the unique addition of watermelon, offering a sweet counterpart to the marinated seafood. Fresh lime juice accents the flavors of the red snapper and shrimp, melding beautifully with the creamy avocado.
Ensure the fish and shrimp are “cooked” by the citrus before combining them with cubed watermelon and avocado for a mint-garnished delight. This ceviche is perfect for summer occasions when light, refreshing dishes reign supreme.
Ponzu Salmon and Avocado Toast
Give classic avocado toast modern sophistication by adding ponzu-marinated salmon on top. The rich, umami-forward flavors of the salmon pair impeccably with seasoned avocado spread across crunchy, toasted bread.
Garnish with sesame seeds and perhaps a dash of sriracha for added complexity, transforming a simple snack into a gourmet treat. Ideal for brunch or a stylish appetizer that is sure to impress guests and family alike.
Spiced Beef and Refried Bean Tostadas
The robustness of spiced beef joins with smooth avocado in these satisfying tostadas. Smear a layer of refried beans on crunchy tostada shells and liberally top with spiced beef for added heartiness.
Avocado provides a cool contrast to the spice and adds another layer of flavor. Finish with shredded lettuce and cheese and enjoy a meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Wedge Salad With Toasted Sesame-Seaweed Ranch
Enhance the traditional wedge salad with a unique sesame-seaweed twist in the dressing. Incorporate mashed avocado into the ranch dressing base for a creamy complement to the toasted sesame and seaweed flavors.
The crunchy wedges topped with this innovative dressing provide a fusion of fresh and bold flavors, perfect for a refreshing lunch or an appetizer to a seafood menu.
Shrimp and Crispy Rice With Citrus
Satisfy your craving for something crunchy and refreshing with a dish that’s both rich in flavor and texture. Avocado brings a silky texture to contrast with crispy rice and citrus-marinated shrimp.
The citrus flavors balance the richness of the avocado, creating a yummy fusion on the plate. Garnish this ensemble with fresh herbs and enjoy a meal that’s vibrant and filling, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Avocado and Bulgur Salad
Nutritious and delicious, avocado pairs seamlessly with bulgur in this hearty salad. Fresh herbs, tomatoes, and lemon juice combine with the bulgur for a refreshing base.
Add chunks of avocado to the mix for a luxurious texture that enriches this earthy, satisfying dish, making it a prime candidate for a lunch that doesn’t skimp on flavor or sustenance.
Extra-Juicy Turkey Burgers
Revitalize turkey burgers with this juicy recipe that remains succulent, thanks to the addition of avocados. Mix ripe avocado with ground turkey to enhance both texture and moisture.
The result is a burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and player for a healthier alternative to traditional beef patties. Top with avocado slices for a double punch of creaminess and serve with your favorite garnishes for a satisfying meal.
Citrus and Avocado Salad With Orange Water
Layer diverse citrus slices with creamy avocado for a salad as visually stunning as it is flavorful. Add a sprinkle of orange zest to sharpen the dish, and finish it with a drizzle of orange-infused water for a juicy dressing.
This elegant offering mingles sweet and tangy notes in every bite and makes a sophisticated addition to dinners or brunches, perfect for when you want to impress while staying healthy.
Seedy Arepas With Black Beans and Avocado
Transform traditional arepas into an even more healthy delight by incorporating seeds into the dough, offering extra texture and nutrition. Serve these arepas filled with black beans and slices of avocado.
A South American staple modernized with an avocado twist, these seedy arepas are as filling as they are delicious, offering a pleasing balance of soft, crisp, and creamy textures.
Summer Goddess Chicken Salad
Indulge in the refreshing and vibrant flavors that make this chicken salad truly divine. With classic summer vegetables, chunks of grilled chicken, and ripe avocado, this dish boasts an abundance of textures.
The addition of a green goddess dressing, peppered with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon, enhances the freshness of the ingredients, making it a delightful meal option for summer afternoons or picnics.
Vegetarian Chili With Lots of Fritos
Add a creamy twist to a bowl of hearty vegetarian chili by incorporating pieces of avocado. Create a base with beans, tomatoes, and assorted vegetables, cooking them together until richly flavored and blended.
The coolness of the avocado slices juxtaposes the warmth of the chili, while the Fritos provide an unexpected crunch. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for chilly evenings or as a warming comfort food any day.
Chocolate-Avocado Pudding
Indulge in a dessert that’s both creamy and health-conscious with this chocolate-avocado pudding. Blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder, sweetener, and a hint of vanilla until smooth.
Scoop this luscious pudding into bowls, serving it immediately or refrigerating for a cooler dessert. With its rich texture and decadent taste, it’s an irresistible treat that combines indulgence with healthy eating.
Tropi-Cobb Salad
A playful adaptation of the classic Cobb Salad, the Tropi-Cobb pairs traditional ingredients with tropical flavors like diced mango and avocado. Gather an assortment of greens as your base.
Add hard-boiled eggs, bacon, and grilled chicken for protein, topped with juicy mango and avocado slices. The resultant salad dazzles both the eyes and taste buds, making it a standout option for lunch or casual dinner.
Big Green Lentil Salad
Ideal for those seeking both sustenance and flavor, this lentil salad brings avocado into its vibrant mix. Combine cooked lentils, a variety of robust greens, and a generous portion of diced avocado.
A creamy avocado-based dressing ties the salad together, enhancing the earthy lentils and fresh vegetables for a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious, suitable for any day of the week.
Brussels Sprout Tacos With Spicy Peanut Butter
Avocado pairs beautifully with the earthy undertones of shaved Brussels sprouts in these uniquely flavored tacos. The unexpected addition of spicy peanut butter brings a sweet and savory balance.
These vegetarian tacos stand out with avocado’s creamy richness, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. Fun to make and even more fun to eat, they’re perfect for Taco Tuesday or any casual dinner night.
Grilled Broccoli With Avocado and Sesame
Combining the smoky char of grilled broccoli with the nuttiness of sesame and the creaminess of avocado is a surefire way to wake up your taste buds. Toss broccoli in sesame oil before grilling until crisp-tender.
Top with slices of avocado and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a dish that’s both visually appealing and rich in flavor—a perfect side dish for any meal with a touch of modern elegance.
Pico de Gallo Verde
Add an innovative touch to traditional Pico de Gallo by giving it a green hue. Match ripe, creamy avocado with green tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro.
This verdant version of pico de gallo complements tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip that’s a guaranteed show-stopper wherever you serve it—providing freshness and a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Herby Avocado Hummus
Combine your love for hummus and avocado by creating a herby avocado hummus that delivers unparalleled creaminess. Blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil along with avocado and a handful of fresh herbs.
This hummus is perfect for dipping toasted pita or fresh veggies, offering a satisfying snack that’s as wholesomely delicious as it is simple, melding Mediterranean flavors with a creamy avocado finish.
Grilled Carrots With Avocado and Mint
Harness the sweetness of grilled carrots paired with the coolness of avocado and mint for a balanced dish full of delightful flavors. Carrots, grilled until caramelized, bring an earthy sweetness.
Combine these with creamy avocado slices and fresh mint leaves, completing with a light drizzle of olive oil. Whether served as a side or a light lunch option, this dish captures the best of grilled flavors intermixed with fresh, cooling notes.
Family-Style Fish Tacos
Create a family-pleasing meal with fish tacos that come alive with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Reliable fillets like tilapia or cod stand as the taco’s foundation, seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Top these with creamy avocado slices, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime juice for tacos that everyone will line up for, making your Taco Tuesdays a hit. Encourage everyone to craft their tacos, adding a personalized touch to every bite.
Breakfast Burrito to Go
Start your day off with a nutritious breakfast burrito equipped with creamy avocado wrapped inside. Eggs scrambled to perfection, black beans, and a sprinkle of cheese line a warm tortilla.
Include avocado slices for added creaminess and nutrients, rolling everything up to create a compact, on-the-go meal that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying—ideal for a busy morning or leisurely weekend brunch.
Shaved Kohlrabi With Smashed Avocado
Combine the crispness of shaved kohlrabi with the velvety smoothness of smashed avocado for a salad that bursts with freshness. Add lemon juice and olive oil to the avocado to enhance flavors.
Mingle the savory and citrus elements with crunchy kohlrabi shavings to create a dish that’s light yet rich in texture. Excellent as a refreshing starter or a side dish that’s both innovative and attractive.
Avocado Cups With Pomegranate Salsa Verde
Turn your avocados into the star of the show by stuffing them with a burst of color and flavor. Prepare a zesty salsa verde with tart pomegranate seeds, lime juice, and fresh cilantro.
Scoop the salsa into halved avocados for a vibrant appetizer or snack that merges creamy and tart flavors for each mouthful—a visual and gustatory treat that’s an excellent choice for entertaining guests.
Avocado-Lime Ice Pops
For a creamy dessert that’s cool and refreshing, try avocado-lime ice pops. Blend ripe avocados with lime juice, a touch of sweetener, and coconut milk until smooth and evenly incorporated.
Pour the mixture into molds to freeze for several hours until set, creating a dessert perfect for warm days or as a healthier treat alternative. These ice pops offer a unique take on traditional frozen candies, infused with creamy avocado goodness.
Anything-Goes Green Goddess Salad
Create a salad that embraces flexibility and flavor, inspired by the beloved green goddess dressing. This salad allows for a variety of greens to play alongside creamy avocado.
The green goddess dressing offers vibrant, herbal flavors with a hint of lemon, wrapping the greens and avocado in rich taste. Perfect for those who appreciate a salad that adapts to whatever fresh produce you have on hand.
Chicken Under a Brick with Grilled Avocado, Scallion, and Red Onion
Unlock the savory potential of chicken with this exciting recipe that combines grilling and pressing techniques. The chicken becomes flavorful and tender, complemented by the rich, grilled avocados.
Serve with onions and scallions grilled to perfection. This dish gives a rustic charm but boasts flavors and techniques that align with contemporary culinary demands, making it a perfect centerpiece for dinner.
Egg and Avocado Breakfast Sandwich
Start your day with a rich breakfast sandwich that brings together seasoned eggs, creamy avocado, and fresh, lightly grilled bread. Solid and satisfying, this meal offers a delightful balance of flavors.
Whether you’re on the go or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, this sandwich stands strong with avocado providing the creamy layer that binds everything deliciously. It’s perfect for mornings that demand more from their meals.
Honeydew Salad With Ginger Dressing and Peanuts
This colorful salad brings together the subtly sweet honeydew with creamy avocado and a lively ginger dressing. Toss in crunchy peanuts for added texture.
The ginger dressing offers a zing that highlights the softer flavors of honeydew and avocado, creating a dish that captures both fresh and exotic senses, making it perfect for summer evenings or refreshing brunches.
Avocado Margarita
Blend creamy avocado into a classic margarita for a cocktail that’s unexpectedly smooth and rich. Mix ripe avocado with tequila, lime juice, and a splash of triple sec, blending until silky.
The result is a vibrant and refreshing drink that elevates your cocktail hour, offering a uniquely smooth texture that stands apart from traditional citrus-driven concoctions.
Steak Salad With Shallot Vinaigrette
Indulge in a hearty steak salad that caters to lovers of bold, rich flavors. Grilled steak slices rest atop a bed of crisp greens with juicy avocado, accentuating each bite with creaminess.
Drizzle with a shallot vinaigrette that adds savory acidity, complementing the robust flavors of the steak and the luscious avocado. This salad offers a meal that’s both filling and refreshing.
Yellowtail Crudo With Citrus and Avocado
Enhance delicate yellowtail slices with fresh citrus and creamy avocado for a sophisticated crudo. The citrus elements bring a refreshing acidity, while avocado adds lush creaminess for a balanced dish.
Perfect as an appetizer, each bite boasts a harmony of flavors, making it suitable for elegant dinners or as a gourmet entrée that impresses any palate.
Green Goddess Crunch Sandwich
Take your sandwich game to the next level with a Green Goddess Crunch loaded with delightful flavors and textures. Layer avocado slices with crunchy lettuce and sprouts inside a hearty bread.
The green goddess dressing infuses vibrancy, providing a satisfyingly crisp and creamy bite every time. Perfect for lunch, this sandwich makes sure you never settle for bland midday meals.
Next Steps
| Recipe | Unique Feature |
|---|---|
| Melon and Avocado Crudo | Combines sweet melon with creamy avocado |
| All A’s Spring Salad With Mahi-Mahi | Features spring vegetables and grilled mahi-mahi |
| Molletes | Open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado |
| Eggplant Tortas Milanesa | Crispy breaded eggplant with creamy avocado |
| BA’s Best Guacamole | Classic guacamole with a spicy twist |
| Mango and Avocado Salad | Colorful salad with diced mango and avocado |
| Avocado Water | Refreshing beverage with avocado essence |
| Flatbread With Avocado and Scallion Salsa | Vibrant avocado and scallion salsa on flatbread |
| Spring Chicken Salad With Smashed Green Beans | Rich textures with grilled chicken and avocado |
| Warm 7-Layer Skillet Dip | Party favorite served warm with avocado |
| Grapefruit Crudo | Delicate harmony of grapefruit and avocado |
| Tex-Mex Caesar Salad | Southwestern twist with tortilla crunch |
| Chocolate-Almond Fridge Fudge | No-cook fudge with avocado for butter replacement |
| Gochujang-Ranch Crispy Chicken Bowl | Fusion flavors of spicy gochujang and creamy ranch |
| Salsa Verde o Roja Cruda | Raw salsa with creamy avocado |
| Red Snapper, Shrimp, and Watermelon Ceviche | Unique seafood ceviche with watermelon and avocado |
| Ponzu Salmon and Avocado Toast | Luxurious avocado toast with ponzu-marinated salmon |
| Spiced Beef and Refried Bean Tostadas | Heartiness from spiced beef with creamy avocado |
| Wedge Salad With Toasted Sesame-Seaweed Ranch | Unique dressing with sesame-seaweed infusion |
| Shrimp and Crispy Rice With Citrus | Contrast of crispy rice with citrus-marinated shrimp |
| Avocado and Bulgur Salad | Nutritious combination of bulgur and avocado |
| Extra-Juicy Turkey Burgers | Avocado for moisture and creaminess in burgers |
| Citrus and Avocado Salad With Orange Water | Layered citrus and avocado with fresh orange water |
| Seedy Arepas With Black Beans and Avocado | Arepas with seeds-enhanced dough and avocado |
| Summer Goddess Chicken Salad | Green goddess dressing with grilled chicken and avocado |
| Vegetarian Chili With Lots of Fritos | Peaceful chili with cool avocado and crunchy Fritos |
| Chocolate-Avocado Pudding | Decadent chocolate dessert using avocado |
| Tropi-Cobb Salad | Fusion of traditional and tropical salad components |
| Big Green Lentil Salad | Hearty lentil composition with avocado inclusion |
| Brussels Sprout Tacos With Spicy Peanut Butter | Unique tacos with Brussels sprouts and peanut butter |
| Grilled Broccoli With Avocado and Sesame | Grilled flavors adorned with sesame and avocado |
| Pico de Gallo Verde | Green-hued pico with avocado for dipping |
| Herby Avocado Hummus | Blend of traditional hummus with avocado infusion |
| Grilled Carrots With Avocado and Mint | Charred carrots complemented by cool avocado and mint |
| Family-Style Fish Tacos | Customizable tacos with family-size preparation |
| Breakfast Burrito to Go | Hearty burrito with creamy avocado and eggs |
| Shaved Kohlrabi With Smashed Avocado | Refreshingly textured salad pairing kohlrabi and avocado |
| Avocado Cups With Pomegranate Salsa Verde | Vibrant salsa served in avocado halves |
| Avocado-Lime Ice Pops | Frozen adventure with creamy avocado and lime |
| Anything-Goes Green Goddess Salad | Flexible salad with rich green goddess dressing |
| Chicken Under a Brick with Grilled Avocado, Scallion, and Red Onion | Savory grilled chicken and avocado main dish |
| Egg and Avocado Breakfast Sandwich | Morning sandwich with robust avocado-egg blend |
| Honeydew Salad With Ginger Dressing and Peanuts | Sweet ginger-infused salad with avocado and peanuts |
| Avocado Margarita | Refreshing drink blending avocado into a margarita |
| Steak Salad With Shallot Vinaigrette | Hearty steak salad accented by shallot vinaigrette |
| Yellowtail Crudo With Citrus and Avocado | Sophisticated crudo blending flavors and textures |
| Green Goddess Crunch Sandwich | Powerful textures in a sandwich with creamy dressing |
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