guacamole

I am convinced that avocado goes with anything, on its own, in a salad, a sandwich or whip up a simple guacamole for a healthier dip alternative for a party or a quiet movie night, instead of buttery popcorn try this guacamole with some corn chips. Not only are they delicious but they have such amazing nutritional value.  I'm quite convinced that savory is not the only way you can eat them, I mean they are a fruit right? The only time I have seen them used in a dessert is in an episode of Iron Chef, where it was turned into an icecream... has anyone come across an avocado dessert recipe that has been tried and tested? If so please share!!

Only issue is that I don't always pick the perfect avocado, I can remember on a few occasion I've gone home only to be disappointed. I read somewhere that an avocado should feel like pressing your finger on your nose (can't seem to remember the source), it should have a little give and not be too mushy. I tend to hold them in my hand and give it a little squeeze, if it gives a little I put them in my trolley and hope for the best!!

But check out these green gems I picked up recently, look how perfect they are...

This a guacamole recipe I got from my Colombian friend, Olga, which I tweaked just a little (because I can't help myself). Every party I've taken it to its gotten great reviews and I've had to scribbled down the recipe on scrap pieces of paper a few times. I remember the first time I tasted this guacamole I couldn't stop dipping my corn chips- not to worry I don't double dip but I kept going back for more.

Olga's Guacamole

2 ripe avocados
1/2 Spanish (red) onion
1/2 red capsicum (bell pepper)
handful of coriander (cilantro) leaves chopped finely
1/2 lemon, juice
salt
cracked pepper
1/4 tsp paprika

Cut the avocado in half and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Use a fork to smash the avocado. .

Finely chop the Spanish onion and capsicum and add it to the avocado. Squeeze 1/2 lemon juice in the bowl.

Add the chopped coriander and mix. Salt and pepper to taste. Add the paprika at the end and mix well.

Tip: Olga always leaves the seed in the guacamole to prevent it from oxidizing. Lemon should also help with that, so sometimes I add just a little more at the end.