The avocado is often called "alligator pear," which is very descriptive, as it tends to be pear-shaped and has green, bumpy skin like an alligator. Not only are avocados good, but they're good for you given their high nutrient value.
These days, the avocado has become an incredibly popular food among and if often referred to as a superfood, which is not surprising given its health properties. In fact, avocados are very nutritious and contain a wide variety of nutrients, including 20 different vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the most abundant nutrients, in a single 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving: Vitamin K (26% of the daily value, IE DV), Folate (20% of the DV), Vitamin C (17% of the DV), Potassium (14% of the DV), Vitamin B5 (14% of the DV), Vitamin B6 (13% of the DV) and Vitamin E (10% of the DV). Avocados also contain small amounts of magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, phosphorous and vitamins A, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin).
Besides being the main ingredient in guacamole, avocados make great dips. Here is a quick and easy avocado dip recipe that's sure to please:
Avocado Dip Recipe
You'll need:
- 2 large ripe avocados
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 jalapeno peppers, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
- juice of 1/2 lime
- salt and pepper
Directions:
- Mix or blend well and refrigerate 1 hour before serving
This avocado dip recipe was written by Crispin Gilbert and is compliments of a cookbook by the Cuthbert United Methodist Church