Avocados have a creamy, nutty flavor that some people describe as almost buttery.
Read on to find out more about the unique flavor profile, texture, uses, and proper storage of this super fruit.
Avocado is one food that has gained massive popularity in the last decade – and for good reason!
It’s delicious, versatile, and healthy.
Rich in vitamins A, C, D, E and K; it’s no wonder they call it a superfood!
If you’ve never had avocado before and are curious about what it tastes like, then you’re in for a treat 🙂
Today we’ll cover everything you need to know about this power fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!) including what it tastes like, its many uses, and the best way to store it.
What Are Avocados?
To many people’s surprise, the avocado is actually a fruit. A berry, to be exact, but a giant one with one giant seed.
This popular superfood originated in Central America at least 10,000 years ago and today it’s grown all around the world.
It’s oval in shape, usually a bit more elongated than a pear. The skin will start off green but will turn almost black when fully ripe.
On the outside, it has a rough texture almost like alligator skin but on the inside it’s smooth as butter.
When ripe, the avocado will be very light green, almost yellow, in the area just around the seed and will have a darker green outline near the skin. It’s definitely a unique but pretty-looking fruit!
And just like any superfood, the avocado is extremely healthy too. It is rich in fiber and fats (the good kind!) and is known to be good for your skin, eyes, and digestive system.
What Does Avocado Taste Like?
Curious to know what this unique fruit tastes like? Although it is mild, the taste of avocado is very unique. The flavor itself is very subtle and is earthy, grassy, and nutty but fresh. Some people even describe it as buttery.
But perhaps the real experience of eating an avocado is in the texture. With the very first bite, you’ll notice how smooth and creamy it is!
Even though the flavor is mild, it’s also quite dense and thick. When it comes to the avocado, texture is more pronounced than the flavor.
Because of its mild, barely there taste, avocado pairs well with many stronger, more flavorful ingredients. Aside from being delicious and healthy, the avocado’s popularity can also be credited to its versatility. There are simply so many ways to use it!
Different Ways to Use Avocado
Because the avocado has a creamy, mild flavor, it pairs well with a variety of different foods.
Whether you’re transforming it into guacamole or serving it on toast, here are some of the best ways to enjoy your avocado.
1. Guacamole
Because this Mexican dip is so popular, guacamole is many people’s first introduction to avocado. It’s made from coriander, tomato, onions, and lime with mashed avocado binding these ingredients together.
It’s super simple to make too! Add it to a burrito or some quesadillas or simply use it as a dip for corn chips.
2. Avocado Smoothies
Another great way to enjoy an avocado is by adding it to your smoothie. Because of its texture, it adds a perfectly thick and creamy consistency to your beverage.
There are so many ways to mix up a tasty smoothie.
Add a little honey or sugar for a bit of sweetness. Throw in some kale or spinach to make it a super smoothie. And add some bananas and berries for a little extra sweetness and acidity.
In less than 10 minutes, you’ve got a great breakfast on-the-go!
3. Avocado Toast
Possibly the simplest and easiest way to eat avocado: with toast! This Instagram-famous meal is a popular breakfast that everyone seems to be craving.
And why not? It’s delicious, it’s healthy, and it will get you some extra likes! Simply slice your avocados and layer them over your bread of choice.
You can even top it off with a runny sunny-side-up egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Don’t forget to take a picture!
4. Avocado Salads
Trust me, once you try a salad with avocado, you’ll never complain about salads not being filling enough!
Avocado adds healthy fats to your salad that will keep you full and satisfied.
Top it off with your favorite veggies, fruits, nuts, cheese, and your choice of protein. Cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and pecans are some of my personal favorites.
If I’m feeling extra indulgent, I’ll even add in some shrimp and mangoes too! This might sound like a pretty wild salad but trust me, you will love it!
5. Dairy-Free Ice Cream
This is probably my favorite way to use avocado. It’s a little sinful, but can you blame me? Homemade avocado ice cream is simply the best!
The smooth, creamy consistency of avocado’s makes for an excellent ice cream. And you only need four ingredients: Coconut milk, banana, maple syrup, and of course the star of the show, avocado!
Simply mix all the ingredients in a blender, pour in a tub or pan, and leave in the freezer overnight. Easy right? Well, except for the part where you have to wait for it to freeze. But I promise… it will be worth it!
How to Store Avocado
The general rule with avocado is that you should avoid buying them super ripe. Avocado is usually harvested before it’s ripe and once plucked from the tree, they tend to ripen very quickly. So unless you’ll be using them right away, definitely go for greener, less ripe avocados.
To store unripe avocados, you can leave them out on the kitchen counter at room temperature. Depending on how far along they are in the ripening process, they’ll be ready to eat between 3 to 5 days.
If your avocados are almost ripe (or are already ripe) and you want to save them for later, seal them in a plastic bag and place in your refrigerator. This will give you an extra 3 to 5 days before you have to use them up.