🥑🌿 Avocado-Cilantro Spread 🥑🌿
Avocado-Cilantro Spread is a delightful and flavorful condiment that combines the rich, creamy texture of avocados with the fresh, vibrant taste of cilantro. This spread is versatile and can be used as a dip, a sandwich or taco spread, a salad dressing, or even as a topping for grilled meats. It’s a favorite for those who love the unique fusion of avocado and cilantro flavors.
History:
The history of Avocado-Cilantro Spread is somewhat elusive, but it likely originated as a modern fusion recipe in response to the growing popularity of avocados in various cuisines. The combination of avocado and cilantro is inspired by the flavors of Mexican and South American dishes, which frequently feature these ingredients. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile condiment appreciated in many different culinary contexts.
Components:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, washed and chopped
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (optional for added flavor and crunch)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (for a spicy kick, optional)
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients listed above. Make sure the avocados are ripe, the cilantro is washed and chopped, and the lime is ready for juicing.
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Mash the Avocado: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the avocados to your desired level of smoothness. If you like it chunky, leave some texture.
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Add the Cilantro and Garlic: Add the chopped cilantro and minced garlic to the mashed avocados.
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Season and Spice: Squeeze the juice from one lime into the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it spicy, add minced jalapeño at this point. Mix everything together.
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Add Optional Ingredients: If you want to enhance the flavor and texture, mix in finely chopped red onion for added crunch and a slightly sharper taste.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences.
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Serve: Your Avocado-Cilantro Spread is ready to be served. It can be used immediately as a dip, spread, or topping.
Time Needed:
The preparation of Avocado-Cilantro Spread is relatively quick and easy. It should take approximately 10-15 minutes from start to finish, depending on your chopping and mashing speed. This makes it a perfect option for a last-minute addition to your meals or snacks.
Enjoy your delicious and versatile Avocado-Cilantro Spread, and don’t be afraid to get creative with how you use it in your dishes! 🥑🌿😋
Certainly! Here’s the nutrition facts and health information for Avocado-Cilantro Spread:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: Approximately 50-60 kcal
- Total Fat: About 4-5 grams
- Saturated Fat: Less than 1 gram
- Sodium: Less than 5 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: About 4-5 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3 grams
- Sugars: Less than 1 gram
- Protein: Approximately 1 gram
- Vitamin C: About 6-8% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Folate: About 5-6% of the DV
- Potassium: About 6-8% of the DV
Health Information:
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Healthy Fats: Avocado-Cilantro Spread is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, primarily from avocados. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels when used as part of a balanced diet.
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Fiber: The spread is a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. It can aid in maintaining regular bowel movements and may contribute to a feeling of fullness.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Avocado provides essential nutrients like vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and folate, important for cell division and growth. Additionally, it contains potassium, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
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Low Sodium: The spread is naturally low in sodium, making it suitable for individuals who need to monitor their salt intake.
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Low Sugar: It contains minimal sugar, which is beneficial for those looking to reduce sugar consumption.
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Nutrient-Dense: The combination of avocado and cilantro offers a variety of phytonutrients and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
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Versatile: You can use this spread as a healthier alternative to many commercial condiments, which may be high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial preservatives.
While Avocado-Cilantro Spread offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are watching your calorie intake. Enjoy it in moderation as a part of a balanced diet for a tasty and nutritious addition to your meals. 🥑🌿😊