Month: May 2019

Beyond Meat Sausage Review: A Healthy Plant-Based Alternative?

Beyond Meat Sausage Review: A Healthy Plant-Based Alternative?

As promised, I am continuing my reviews of the Beyond Meat brand of vegan meat substitutes. Today’s review focuses on the Beyond Meat Sausage, of which there are two varieties: Hot and Original Bratwurst. I have tried both versions of the Beyond Meat sausage and Read more

3 Super-food Smoothies To Get Your Daily Dose Of Hemp Oil

3 Super-food Smoothies To Get Your Daily Dose Of Hemp Oil

Welcome to the start of a short week! I hope you’ve all enjoyed spending time with family and friends on Memorial Day. Today I’d like to share some quick and easy CBD beverage recipes from my friends over at MadeByHemp. CBD oil is highly beneficial Read more

Healthy Avocado Recipes: Nutritious and Delicious Ideas

Healthy Avocado Recipes: Nutritious and Delicious Ideas

I love avocados, so much so that I eat one every day of the week. The humble avocado has also been one of the main food staples underpinning my current way of eating. Avocados are nutrient-dense and contain the best of plant fats, filling fiber, and many vitamins and trace minerals. One of the best things about avocados is that you can use them in a variety of recipes and meals – from breakfast to dessert.

In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite quick and healthy avocado recipes that anyone can make. The main thing is you get the nutritional benefits of avocado while enjoying delicious sauces, condiments, entrees, and desserts! Yes, indeed the avocado is very versatile and can work in deliciously unconventional ways. Follow along for some of my favorite avocado recipes.

Guacamole

Guacamole may be the most famous of all avocado dishes commonly served on festive occasions. Guacamole is a rich and creamy dip that originated from Mexico’s Aztec culture. In the 16th century, the Aztecs created “ahuaca-mulli” or “avocado sauce” by crushing tomatoes, onions, and avocados together. The conquering Spaniards later modified the recipe by adding a few more ingredients and changing the name “ahuacatl” to “aguacate.” The old name of “ahuaca-mulli” subsequently became guacamole.

Fascinating history aside, I love guacamole for several reasons; the top one being that it’s delicious! It’s one of my favorite dips because it’s quick and easy to make using fresh, raw, and, whole ingredients. I make my guacamole with the following ingredients:

  • Ripe avocados
  • Diced tomatoes & onions
  • Cilantro
  • Lime juice
  • Salt & Pepper

That’s it, a few healthy ingredients married together to create a delicious and healthy side dip you can enjoy with chips, flatbread, or even by the spoonful! Here’s my take on the traditional Mexican guacamole.

Guacamole

A creamy delectable dip made with the goodness of avocados. Try this quick and easy guacamole recipe to serve at your next fiesta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 45 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large avocados
  • 1 large lime juiced
  • 1 medium tomato diced
  • 1/2 small onion diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon jalapeno pepper diced
  • 1 clove garlic grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Slice avocados in half, discard seeds and scoop out the flesh from the skin. Add avocado to the bowl of a food processor.
  • Sprinkle 1/2 of the lime juice over the avocado to prevent browning. Add diced onions, grated garlic, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro to the bowl of the food processor. Pulse in a food processor to desired texture – fewer pulses for chunky or more pulses for creamier guacamole.
  • Add remaining 1/2 of lime juice, jalapeno and salt to the guacamole mix and pulse a few more times in the food processor to fully mix all seasonings.
  • Place guacamole in a bowl and serve with your favorite tortilla or root-vegetable chips or use as a side dish to any Mexican meal.

Avocado Toast

Believe it or not, avocado toast has been around for a long time. The original concept for avocado toast was created in the San Francisco Bay area of California in 1885. So what exactly is avocado toast and how is it made? The beauty of this open sandwich is its simplicity coupled with good nutrition. Avocado toast is made using simple ingredients including:

  • Avocado
  • Multi-grain bread (may also use flatbread, crackers or whatever else you wish)
  • Lime Juice
  • Seasonings
  • Salt & Pepper

To make avocado toast, we simply add seasonings and citrus to crushed slices of avocado. This mixture is then stirred to blend all the ingredients before spread over toasted multi-grain bread. Of course, you can enhance the flavors by adding other toppings like hummus, red pepper flakes, shredded cheese, etc. You are limited only by your imagination.

Avocado toast has all the nutrients found in avocado along with the goodness of whole grains – it’s delicious and keeps you full for hours. Here is my quick and easy recipe for avocado toast.

Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is the perfect quick and healthy meal. It's delicious, filling and you can add an infinite number of toppings and enjoy this delightful bite for any meal be it breakfast, snack lunch, or dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Breakfast, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ large avocado
  • 2 slices multi-grain bread or bread of choice, toasted
  • teaspoons lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt & pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Toast multi-grain bread or bread of choice and set aside.
  • Cut avocado in half, remove seed and scoop the flesh into a small bowl.
  • Add lime juice, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper to the avocado. Mash avocado with a fork making sure to blend in seasonings.
  • Spread the avocado mash on top of the prepared whole-grain toast.
  • Feel free to add other toppings like an over-easy egg if you’re having breakfast or a bit of hummus for a tasty and filling snack.
Keyword avocado oil


Avocado Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is a beloved condiment used by many to enhance the flavor and texture of anything from sandwiches to potato salads. However, regular mayonnaise is made using artery-clogging and unhealthy ingredients like canola oil. Sure we can enjoy regular mayonnaise in moderation, but I like to have my cake and eat it too.

To this end, I did my research and discovered avocado mayonnaise which is made with heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in avocado oil. These good fats help our bodies absorb more of the antioxidants found in other vegetables including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and lutein.

I usually make a vegan version of avocado mayonnaise to boost the nutritional profile of the dish. The vegan version is made entirely with avocado flesh as well as avocado oil. However, sometimes I enjoy the richness and full flavor of a traditional type of mayonnaise so I replace the avocado flesh with an egg yolk and keep the avocado oil. Here’s my recipe for avocado mayonnaise that anyone can enjoy, especially if on a keto or paleo diet.

Avocado Mayonnaise

A creamy, tangy, and savory avocado mayonnaise you can use in sandwiches, potato salad, or dips. Heart-healthy and delicious!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large egg yolk room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 3/4 cup avocado oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Place room temperature egg yolk in the bowl of a stand mixture. Add mustard and 1/4 tsp of salt to the egg yolk and whisk together until combined.
  • Continuing to whisk in a stand mixer, add in a 1/4 cup of avocado oil bit by bit until the mixture begins to thicken. Whisk in ACV and lemon juice.
  • Very slowly, stream in the remaining 1/2 cup of avocado oil, whisking continuously until blended and creamy. Whisk in the remaining 1/4 tsp of salt and garlic powder.
  • Scoop mayonnaise into a clean mason jar and chill with the surface covered with plastic wrap, until ready to use. This mayonnaise will last up to a week in the refrigerator.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

I bet you never thought you’d see the words avocado and chocolate mousse in the same sentence, amirite? Nonetheless, the versatile avocado makes an excellent chocolate mousse that is suitable for anyone doing the keto or any other high-fat low-carb diet.

The texture of avocado flesh makes it the perfect platform for building a creamy, chocolatey, and satisfying mousse. The slight neutral herby taste of avocado is easily tamed with high-quality semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.

Avocado chocolate mousse is another of my favorite quick and healthy recipes for when I’m craving chocolate. As with most of my recipes, you can modify the flavor and nutritional profile depending on whether you add more sweeteners to the mousse. For example, you may decide that the level of sweetness found in semi-sweet chocolate is sufficient whereas another person would prefer more sweetness.

In the event you prefer more sweetness, feel free to use maple syrup, honey, powdered sugar, or any other sweeteners of choice. Here’s a low-sugar version of my avocado chocolate mousse recipe sweetened with Monksweet+ with Stevia.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Indulge your chocolate sweet tooth with this thick, creamy, and no sugar added avocado chocolate mousse. Enjoy the wonderful taste of chocolate without the guilt all while reaping the goodness of avocados.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 216 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large avocados
  • 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoon powdered Monk Sweet+ with Stevia
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Melt semi-sweet chocolate in a double boiler or in a microwave oven. Set aside to cool.
  • Cut avocados in half, remove seeds, and add flesh to the bowl of a food processor.
  • Add melted semi-sweet chocolate, almond milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, salt, and monk sweet+ with stevia to the food processor with avocado. Blend on high until all ingredients are smooth and creamy.
  • Spoon avocado mousse into ramekins and enjoy immediately. If you like a thicker mousse let it set up in the refrigerator for 2 hours or overnight.
Keyword avocado oil, cocoa powder


Avocados – The Miracle Fruit

The avocado is a miraculous fruit because of its nutritional profile as well as its versatility and suitability for various culinary applications. In terms of nutrition, avocados are a power-house boasting the following properties:

  • One of the few fruits containing both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (good fats)
  • Naturally sugar, sodium and cholesterol-free
  • 1/3 of a medium avocado has only 80 calories while adding over 20 vitamins and minerals
  • Nutrient booster – allows for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, K, and E.
  • High in dietary fiber
  • Delicious

Avocados can be used for any meal or course either as the main ingredient or as a very important part of a quality recipe. I highly encourage you to add avocados to your daily diet. You’ll be surprised by all the recipes there are available for you to try out and enjoy.

In the meantime, let me know if you try any of these recipes, and let me know in the comments how they turned out. Until next time: Happy Eating!


Quick and Healthy Avocado Toast Recipe: Endless Toppings for Any Meal

Quick and Healthy Avocado Toast Recipe: Endless Toppings for Any Meal

Avocado toast is the perfect quick and healthy meal. It’s delicious, filling and you can add an infinite number of toppings and enjoy this delightful bite for any meal be it breakfast, snack lunch or dinner.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse: A Creamy, Healthy Dessert

Avocado Chocolate Mousse: A Creamy, Healthy Dessert

Indulge your chocolate sweet tooth with this thick, creamy and no sugar added avocado chocolate mousse. Enjoy the wonderful taste of chocolate without the guilt all while reaping the goodness of avocados.

Avocado Mayonnaise: A Healthy, Homemade Alternative

Avocado Mayonnaise: A Healthy, Homemade Alternative

Creamy, Homemade Avocado Mayonnaise for a Healthier Alternative

When it comes to condiments, mayonnaise is a kitchen staple. But if you’re looking to keep things light and packed with healthy fats, avocado mayonnaise is a fantastic alternative. This smooth, creamy, and delicious spread is the perfect addition to your sandwiches, salads, or even as a dip. And the best part? It’s made with fresh avocados, so you’re getting a boost of nutrients with every bite.

Why Switch to Avocado Mayonnaise?

Traditional mayonnaise is usually made with oils that may not offer many health benefits. Avocado mayonnaise, on the other hand, is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats thanks to the star ingredient—avocado! It’s a great way to enjoy the creamy texture of mayo but with an added nutritional punch. Avocados are packed with vitamins, including E, C, K, and various B vitamins, all of which play an important role in maintaining healthy skin, immune function, and energy levels.

For those on a keto, paleo, or low-carb diet, avocado mayonnaise is a great way to stay on track while still enjoying your favorite dishes. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for adding to your meals without worrying about unwanted ingredients.

A Dairy-Free, Egg-Free Option

If you’re following a vegan or egg-free diet, traditional mayonnaise may not always be the best option. That’s where avocado mayonnaise comes in handy! You can make this recipe completely plant-based without the need for eggs. Avocados naturally give the same creaminess that eggs do, so you won’t even miss them in your mayo. To keep things vegan, you can use a plant-based milk or even water to thin out the mayo to your desired consistency.

How to Use Avocado Mayonnaise

The best part about avocado mayonnaise is how versatile it is. It’s not just for sandwiches or wraps (although it’s amazing in both). Here are a few ways you can enjoy this healthier mayo in your meals:

  • Spread on Sandwiches or Burgers: Use avocado mayo in place of traditional mayo to add an extra layer of creaminess to your favorite sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
  • As a Salad Dressing Base: Mix avocado mayonnaise with a bit of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to create a quick and creamy salad dressing. It pairs beautifully with any green salad, especially those featuring hearty greens like kale or spinach.
  • Dip for Veggies or Fries: Whether you’re snacking on raw veggies or indulging in a side of sweet potato fries, avocado mayonnaise makes an excellent dipping sauce. Its thick and creamy texture complements crunchy veggies and crispy fries perfectly.
  • Top Deviled Eggs: For a fun twist on deviled eggs, try swapping out traditional mayo for avocado mayo in the filling. It gives the eggs a fresh, unique flavor while keeping them low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
  • In Tuna or Chicken Salad: Elevate your tuna or chicken salad by using avocado mayonnaise as the creamy binder. It not only tastes great but also makes the dish more nutritious.

Customizing Your Avocado Mayonnaise

Just like with traditional mayonnaise, you can play around with different flavors when making your avocado mayo. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley gives it a burst of color and freshness, while a pinch of garlic or chili powder can kick things up a notch. For a citrusy note, squeeze in some lime or lemon juice to balance out the creaminess with a little tartness.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment by adding a touch of Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Since avocados have a relatively mild flavor, they pair well with a variety of seasonings and herbs, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Storing Your Avocado Mayonnaise

Since avocados tend to oxidize quickly and turn brown, it’s important to store your avocado mayonnaise properly to keep it fresh for as long as possible. After making the mayo, transfer it to an airtight container and press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent air exposure. This will help slow down the browning process.

For best results, try to consume your avocado mayonnaise within 3-5 days. It’s a small-batch recipe, so you won’t have to worry about it going to waste!

A Guilt-Free Condiment for Your Healthy Lifestyle

With avocado mayonnaise, you can enjoy all the creamy goodness of regular mayo while fueling your body with nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re making it to enhance your meals or to satisfy a craving for something rich and indulgent, this recipe delivers both flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s customizable and easy to make, so you’ll never want to go back to store-bought options once you give it a try.

Avocado Mayonnaise

A creamy, tangy, and savory avocado mayonnaise you can use in sandwiches, potato salad, or dips. Heart-healthy and delicious!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large egg yolk room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 3/4 cup avocado oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Place room temperature egg yolk in the bowl of a stand mixture. Add mustard and 1/4 tsp of salt to the egg yolk and whisk together until combined.
  • Continuing to whisk in a stand mixer, add in a 1/4 cup of avocado oil bit by bit until the mixture begins to thicken. Whisk in ACV and lemon juice.
  • Very slowly, stream in the remaining 1/2 cup of avocado oil, whisking continuously until blended and creamy. Whisk in the remaining 1/4 tsp of salt and garlic powder.
  • Scoop mayonnaise into a clean mason jar and chill with the surface covered with plastic wrap, until ready to use. This mayonnaise will last up to a week in the refrigerator.