September 16th is National Guacamole Day so grab your appetite and some tortilla chips and get dipping!
Guacamole is a spread made with heart-healthy mashed avocados as the main ingredient. There are a variety of other items that can be tastefully added to the avocado mash to enrich the taste. Lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, even salsa are great additions to bring out the best flavors. Most often used as a dip for tortilla chips, guacamole is a great dip for pretzels, carrots, crackers and celery as well as a good spread for sandwiches, burgers, avocado toast and more! Head to your favorite restaurant or try your hand in guac made at home.
FUN FACTS:
- The Aztecs created the original version of guacamole in the 1500’s with “ahuaca-mulli” or “avocado sauce.”
- In the United States, avocados were first grown in Florida in 1833 and three years later, they were also planted in California.
- The majority of the avocados grown in the United States now come from California.
- Avocados are also a big import from Mexico.
- In 1935, Rudolph Hass bought a seedling for an avocado tree and named it a “Hass avocado.” Haas avocados are now the most popular variety in America.
- Avocados are rising in popularity! In 20 years, avocado consumption has grown from 1 to 7 pounds per capita.
RECIPE:
2 ripe avocados (skin should be very dark green)
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 TBS. lemon juice
2 TBS. minced red onion
2 TBS. cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
1 plum tomato, finely chopped
Cut the avocados, then mash to desired consistency. Add other ingredients and use a fork to mix. Serve immediately.
*Avocados brown pretty quickly. If you have leftovers (doubtful!), seal them in an airtight container and eat within a day.
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