The avocado is a tropical fruit native to Central America. The U.S. is the world’s top commercial producer of avocados, with 80% grown in California. Unlike nearly all other tree fruits, the avocado can’t reach full maturity until it is removed from the tree, allowing farmers to extend the avocado season to 12 months! (Learn more about avocados on the MSU Extension site.)
Storage Tips
Hard avocados ripen at room temperature in three to six days. To speed up the process, place them in a paper bag, preferably with an apple. Storing unripe avocados in the refrigerator will keep them from ripening. Keep your ripe avocados in the refrigerator and use within two to three days.
Nutrition
Avocados are full of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, and folate. They are also an excellent source of monounsaturated fat, which may help lower blood cholesterol when used in place of saturated fats found in animal products. (Read more about fats and cardiovascular health at the American Heart Association website, and get your nutrition facts at Self.com.)
Recipes
Alfalfa Sprout Sushi Roll
Alton Brown’s Guacamole
Asparagus and Avocado Wraps
Avocado-Dressed Shrimp a la Mexicana
Black Bean, Corn and Avocado Ranch Salad
Chicken Fajitas
Collard Rolls with Lemon Dill Sauce
Creamy Cucumber Soup
Deviled Eggs, Four Ways
Fresh Tuna Salad in an Avocado
Fried Guacamole
Golden Summer Rice
Grilled Zucchini Tacos
Kohlrabi Carrot Fritters with Avocado Cream Sauce
Loaded Baked Sweet Potatoes with Ginger Citrus Vinaigrette
Low Fat Tomatillo Guacamole
Quinoa Avocado Salad
Radish and Avocado Sandwich
Raw Beetroosh
Raw Broccoli Salad
Roasted Carrot & Avocado Salad
Seafood Salad with Creamy Tarragon Dressing
Simple Grilled Romaine Salad
Smooth and Crunchy Vegan Sandwich
Strawberry Mango Salsa
The Western Club (with Sprouts!)
Upside-Down Beet Salad
Vegan Quinoa & Sweet Potato Chili