Avocado Tips: Pick, Store, Handle

Move over, guacamole—Hass avocados are here to shake things up in your kitchen! These creamy, flavour-packed green gems aren’t just for dips anymore. From pizzas to power-packed salads, dreamy sandwiches to decadent desserts, avocados add a little extra magic to every dish. Ready to turn this vibrant fruit into your next culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Picking the Perfect Avocado

Not all avocados are created equal, and Hass avocados reign supreme. With their rich, buttery texture and signature bumpy skin, they’re available year-round, making them a staple for any foodie.

How to Tell If It’s Ripe:

• Give it a gentle squeeze—if it gives slightly while still feeling firm, it’s ready to go.
• The colour transition is key: bright green means underripe, deep blackish-green means perfection.
• Want them to ripen faster? Pop them in a paper bag with an apple—the ethylene gas speeds up the process.

Storing Like a Pro

• Short-term: Once ripe, refrigerate for up to two days.
• Long-term: Mash, mix with 1/2 tsp lemon juice per 1/2 pound, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months.

Getting to the Good Stuff

1. Wash your avocado—yes, even before cutting!
2. Slice lengthwise around the seed.
3. Twist the halves apart.
4. Use a spoon to pop out the seed.
5. Scoop the creamy flesh from the peel.

Now, let’s get cooking! Here are five incredible avocado recipes that’ll make you fall in love with this versatile fruit all over again.

1. Ultimate Turkey & Avocado Sandwich Wedges

Perfect for picnics or a quick lunch, this sandwich is packed with layers of flavour.

Ingredients:

• 3 slices pepper jack cheese
• 2 large Hass avocados, peeled and seeded, divided
• 3 Tbsp salsa
• 3 strips roasted red pepper
• 1 pound thinly sliced smoked turkey
• 3 thin red onion slices, separated into rings
• 2 romaine lettuce leaves
• 1 round loaf of crusty bread

Instructions:

1. Cut a circle from the top of the bread and hollow out the inside.
2. Mash one avocado and mix with salsa; spread over the bread base.
3. Layer roasted pepper strips, onion rings, cheese, half the turkey, and avocado slices.
4. Add lettuce and remaining turkey.
5. Replace the bread top, press firmly, wrap tightly, and refrigerate.
6. Slice into wedges before serving. Enjoy!

2. Avocado Pesto Pasta

A creamy, dreamy, and dairy-free twist on pesto pasta!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe Hass avocados
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 12 oz cooked pasta

Instructions:

1. Blend avocados, basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Toss with warm pasta and serve immediately.

3. Avocado Chocolate Mousse

A guilt-free dessert that’s velvety smooth and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe Hass avocados
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup milk of choice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until silky smooth.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
3. Top with berries or whipped cream for extra indulgence!

4. Spicy Avocado & Egg Breakfast Toast

A protein-packed start to your day with a spicy kick!

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe Hass avocado
• 2 slices whole-grain toast
• 2 eggs, poached or fried
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and red pepper flakes.
2. Spread over toasted bread.
3. Top each slice with a perfectly cooked egg.
4. Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

5. Avocado & Shrimp Tacos

A fresh and zesty twist on taco night!

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe Hass avocado
• 1/2 lb cooked shrimp
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 small tortillas

Instructions:

1. Mash the avocado and spread over warmed tortillas.
2. Toss shrimp with tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and salt.
3. Spoon the shrimp mixture onto each tortilla.
4. Serve immediately and devour!

Hass avocados are the ultimate kitchen chameleon—whether in a savoury meal or a sweet treat, their creamy texture and rich taste take dishes to the next level. What’s your favourite avocado recipe? Try these out and let us know how they turn out!