Disclosure: Today we’re talking all things avocado and delicious like this avocado chickpea mash, aka “smash”. Although I received financial compensation for writing this post, all views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely and entirely my own. For nutrition information on avocados, plus some fabulous recipes, please be sure to visit the Love One Today website courtesy of The Hass Avocado Board.
So…
My sweet cousin Jori is about to have her first baby any day now {SO super excited for her!!!}, and if she were to ask me, her Spicy cousin, the following question…
“What should I feed my little girl when she first starts eating solid foods?”
I would tell her in a pretty avocado green heartbeat…
“Avocado!” {You guessed that right?!!}
Delicious, nutritious, and easy to eat, the fresh avocado, one of nature’s perfect foods, is one of the first foods I fed my own “babies”, now 12 and 10, and they are still big-time avocado lovers, just like Mr. Spicy and myself 🙂
So, what’s to love about avocados other than their creamy dreamy deliciousness???
Let’s spread some avocado love today…
Avocado Nutrition 101
- Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats {MUFAs}, which are not only good for your heart, but also help keep you satiated, and may help fight belly fat!
- Avocados are very low in sugar {less than 1 gram/serving}, while providing nearly 20 vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients including vitamins E and C and folate, iron, potassium, and lutein, a natural antioxidant that may help maintain eye health, especially as we get older.
- Avocados are “nutrient boosters” which basically means that they help the body absorb fat-soluble nutrients, such as alpa- and beta-carotne and lutein. How cool is that???
- Avocados are naturally gluten-free, cholesterol free, sodium-free, and suitable for anyone on a vegan or vegetarian diet as well.
- And, oh yes, SUPER versatile in the kitchen, fresh avocados can be used in absolutely ANY dish including dessert, smoothies, soups, and in my all time favorite SUPER easy recipe, The Avocado Smash!
What’s an Avocado Smash you’re asking???
It’s pretty much one of the most delicious, easiest, and healthiest meal inventions ever!
Avocado Chickpea Mash, aka “Smash”, Wrapped or Naked
The Avocado Smash
Ingredients
- 1/2 fresh avocado, flesh scooped out of avocado skin
- 7.5 ounces chickpeas {canned or dried, soaked and cooked}
- sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- veggies of choice such as broccoli slaw, sliced cucumbers, and micro greens
- optional: bread or tortilla/wrap for serving, or serve “naked” in an “avocado bowl”
Instructions
- Combine the avocado, chickpeas, salt and pepper in a small bowl and mash to desired consistency with a fork or potato masher.
- Spread smashed avocado mixture on top of bread, tortilla/wrap, or spoon in to the emply avocado skin.
- Top with veggies of choice and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
If you’re cutting back on carbs a little, the “Naked” Avocado Chickpea Mash will be your new lunchtime BFF! Simply spoon some yummy avocado smash filling into an avocado “boat”, and pile high with whatever veggies you choose. Super fun idea for a party too!
So what are you waiting for???
It’s your turn to tell me what’s your favorite way to love one today!!!
What’s your favorite way to eat a fresh avocado? Did you learn anything new about avocado nutrition today? How do you like your smash~wrapped or naked???
