Avocado, have one naked!

A ripe avocado eaten scooped out of its skin with a spoon is such a great snack.

They act as a nutrient booster and increase the body’s ability to absorb and use carotenoids, which are powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from damaging compounds.

A good supply of antioxidants can help build up strength and resist stress.
They help the body build itself up whilst offering up a delicious natural food at the same time.

Naturally rich in omega -3, and really beneficial if you suffer from depression.

It is an excellent source of lecithin, a type of fatty acid that helps break down fats in the diet.
Lecithin is a key building block of cell membranes needed in every cell in the body.
Gives a boost to the brain which in turn helps reduce anxiety and depression.

Are they fattening?

Compared to other fruits they are high in calories, however, in comparison to other foods they are very low in calories.

The fat content is predominantly of the monounsaturated type.
It can actually assist in lowering ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol levels, so they can be eaten in place of other high fat foods containing saturated fats.

They contain the plant sterol beta-sitosterol which helps prevent cholesterol from being absorbed through the intestine.

It also contains glutathione, an antioxidant that may offer protection against several cancers.

A good source of important minerals and vitamins.

Always serve raw as they have a bitter taste when cooked.

I love them and simply slice one and add to any savory dish I am eating. It goes particularly well with rice, pasta and salad.

Have you tried it mashed on toast? It’s delicious.

As I mentioned earlier, it is a fruit, being the reproductive part of the plant.

Due to its shape and rough skin it is commonly known as the alligator pear.

There are three main types: –

• Ettinger with bright green shiny skin
• Fuerte that has large fruit and green textured skin
• Hass has dark purple skin when mature

Originally from Central America and first introduced to Europe by the conquistadors.
It has since been planted in other parts of the world.

I have often thought of trying to grow one myself, considering how many stones I recycle.

Last summer I found one growing quite happily in my greenhouse.
Potted it up, cut it back and hope it survives the winter months.
It will be interesting to see how it gets on - so watch this space!.

Here’s a saucy Salsa recipe you might like to try.
You need: -

• 3 ripe tomatoes
• 6 spring onions
• 1 small bunch coriander
• 1 green chilli
• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 lime

and here's how to put it all together

1. Place the tomatoes into a pan of boiling water for 1 minute. Allow to cool
   Peel off the skins, remove the seeds and chop into small pieces.

2. Finely chop the sping onions.
3. Wash and chop the coriander (discard the stalks).
4. Sqeeze the juice from the lime.
5. Slice chilli and remove seeds.
6. Peel avocados and cut flesh part into small pieces.

Mix all the ingredients together and leave to marinade for about 1 hour.
Serve as required (e.g. with a salad or vegetable crudites).