Avocado Pesto
The consumption of avocado, which until quite recently was ‘reserved’ only for Mexican recipes, has now spread throughout the entire world. The fruit, which has many amazing properties, can be prepared and eaten in hundreds of different ways. In this article, we will tell you about avocado pesto. The avocado pesto is an ideal sauce to accompany pasta or to eat as a starter with crackers and toast.
Why consume avocado?
While it is true that in some countries avocado consumption has become a ‘fad,’ the truth is that its natural properties are actually extremely interesting. So there is no reason not to try it! What are these reasons?
1. Because it is a superfood!
The avocado is considered to be one of the most complete foods in existence, since it contains no less than 20 vitamins (A, B, C, and E) and minerals (magnesium, copper, zinc, phosphorus, and iron, among others. It is full of healthy fats and fiber, it is low in sodium and carbohydrates, and it does not contain too many calories. It is ideal if you want to lose weight!
2. Because it prevents cramps
Did you know that avocados have more potassium than bananas? When your body does not receive enough potassium, it can suffer with not only cramps, but also problems with blood pressure and kidney diseases.
3. Because it is a healthy option
You can eat avocado in salads or as a replacement for certain dressings. Try spreading a bit of pureed avocado on a sandwich…fresh, nutritious, rich, and healthy! It is a more than just a healthy option for you, if you want to lose weight, but also if you want to modify your eating habits. In summer avocado is great for both lunch and dinner.
Undoubtedly, the avocado can be enjoyed in many recipes, thanks to its creamy texture and its mild flavor. In addition to the famous guacamole, you also have the option of making a delicious avocado pesto, or adding it to a smoothie for breakfast.
4. Because it has antioxidants
Antioxidants are elements that we ingest through the food that we eat. In the case of avocado, the fruit contains the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which protects our eye health and prevents diseases, such as cataracts or macular degeneration.
Avocado also contains other antioxidants with the ability to reduce inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and the side affects of chemotherapy for people with cancer.
How is avocado pesto prepared?
Now that you know about some of the most important properties of avocado, we will tell you how to prepare the delicious avocado pesto. You can enjoy it with pasta (preferably whole wheat), although it also works as a starter for a healthy dip (you can spread it on celery sticks, carrot strips, etc.).
You can prepare the pesto in just ten minutes! The recipe includes: half an avocado, a cup of basil leaves, two cloves of garlic, a spoonful of lemon juice, two tablespoons of pine nuts, a spoonful of grated parmesan cheese, salt, and water.
Cut the garlic cloves in half, just like you did with the avocado. Remove the center and use one of the parts. Place the basil, garlic, avocado, pine nuts, and the lemon juice in the blender.
Blend well until you have a paste. Then, add a few tablespoons of water, a little salt, and the parmesan. Then, mix again to get a light cream…. then, it is ready to consume!
Another option for avocado pesto
Since there are several recipes for avocado pesto, we want to share another alternative that also includes avocado and combines perfectly with dry or fresh pasta. The ingredients are: one avocado, a clove of garlic, half a purple onion, a bunch of fresh coriander, a spoonful of olive oil, and salt.
The preparation for this recipe is very similar to the previous one. You just have to remove the flesh of the avocado and chop the onion, garlic, and cilantro. Place everything into the blender, with salt and olive oil (the amount should be according to your taste). Blend it all together until you get a somewhat thick cream. Toss it in the pasta and sprinkle on the grated cheese! It is simply a delight!
