15 Creative Ways to Cook with Avocados Beyond Toast

Avocados are the ultimate kitchen chameleon. Sure, they’re great on toast, but there’s so much more you can do with their creamy, versatile goodness. From blending them into smoothies to baking them into desserts, avocados have a way of turning simple recipes into something extraordinary. Whether you’re looking to switch up your dinner routine or impress your friends with a creative dish, these ideas will take your love for avocados to a whole new level.

Avocado Pesto Pasta

This dish redefines the concept of creamy pasta, replacing traditional cream-based sauces with a fresh and vibrant avocado pesto. The sauce is made by blending 2 ripe avocados, 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup of pine nuts, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and the juice of 1 lemon. Toss this vibrant pesto with 1 pound of cooked pasta, using reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. The richness of the avocado pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of the pine nuts and the brightness of the lemon. It’s a satisfying, guilt-free dinner option that feels indulgent yet light.

Avocado Smoothie

Avocado smoothies are a perfect way to enjoy a creamy, nutrient-packed drink that feels like a dessert but fuels your body. Blend 1 ripe avocado, 1 frozen banana, 1 cup of spinach, 1 cup of almond milk, and 1 tablespoon of honey until smooth. The avocado adds a luscious texture while balancing the sweetness of the banana and the earthiness of the spinach. This vibrant green smoothie is both energizing and filling, making it ideal for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up. It’s a fantastic way to add healthy fats and vitamins to your diet in a delicious form.

Avocado Fries

Avocado fries transform the buttery fruit into a crispy, savory snack or appetizer. To make them, slice 2 firm avocados into wedges, dredge them in flour, dip them in beaten egg, and coat them with panko breadcrumbs. Fry the wedges in hot oil until golden and crispy, then serve with a creamy dip like garlic aioli. These fries boast a contrast of textures, with a crunchy exterior and a soft, rich interior. They’re a creative way to elevate avocados and offer a fun alternative to traditional potato fries.

Avocado Ice Cream

This dessert is a unique twist on ice cream, offering a creamy, dairy-free treat with a hint of tropical flavor. Blend 3 ripe avocados, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and the juice of 2 limes until smooth. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions before freezing until firm. The natural creaminess of avocados provides the perfect base, while the lime adds a refreshing zing. It’s a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is surprising.

Avocado Deviled Eggs

Avocado deviled eggs take the classic appetizer to a whole new level of creaminess and flavor. The filling is made by mashing the yolks of 6 hard-boiled eggs with 1 ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and the juice of half a lemon. This mixture is piped back into the egg whites and garnished with paprika or chives. The avocado not only enhances the texture but also adds a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the eggs perfectly. These make a stunning and delicious addition to any gathering or snack platter.

Avocado Hummus

Avocado hummus is a velvety dip that merges the creamy qualities of avocado with the savory richness of chickpeas. Combine 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, 1 ripe avocado, 1/4 cup of tahini, 2 cloves of garlic, the juice of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. The result is a bright green dip that’s perfect for pairing with pita chips or fresh vegetables. This is a versatile option that works well as a snack, spread, or party dish.

Avocado Salad Dressing

Creamy avocado salad dressing elevates even the simplest greens into a gourmet meal. Blend 1 ripe avocado, 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 1 clove of garlic, and a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Thin with water to achieve your preferred consistency and season with salt and pepper. This dressing is tangy, rich, and packed with nutrients, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Drizzle it over salads, use it as a dip, or toss it with pasta salad for a flavorful twist.

Avocado Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese gets an upgrade with the addition of creamy avocado slices. Layer 1 ripe avocado, sliced, with 2 slices of cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) between 2 slices of buttered bread. Grill the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. The avocado adds a smooth, buttery texture that perfectly complements the gooey, melted cheese. This simple yet elevated version of a childhood favorite is comforting, hearty, and undeniably delicious.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Indulge in a rich and silky dessert that swaps heavy cream for the creaminess of avocado. Blend 2 ripe avocados with 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. The result is a decadent mousse that’s naturally sweetened and free of dairy. Chill in individual servings for at least an hour before serving. This guilt-free treat is a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sneaking in some healthy fats.

Avocado Sushi Rolls

Avocado sushi rolls bring a creamy twist to a beloved Japanese classic. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over a sheet of nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Arrange thin slices of avocado alongside other fillings like cucumber or crab stick, then roll tightly using a bamboo sushi mat. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi. These rolls are a fantastic way to highlight avocado’s versatility while creating a visually appealing dish.

Avocado Egg Salad

Egg salad gets a healthy makeover with the addition of creamy avocado. Mash 1 ripe avocado with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and combine it with 6 chopped hard-boiled eggs, 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix until smooth. This version is lighter yet just as satisfying as the classic, with the avocado adding a unique depth of flavor. Enjoy it as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or as a standalone dish.

Avocado Pancakes

Pancakes become an unexpected savory delight with avocado added to the batter. Mash 1 ripe avocado and mix it into a batter made of 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of milk, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook on a griddle until golden on both sides. These pancakes are light, fluffy, and packed with healthy fats, making them a perfect base for savory toppings like smoked salmon or poached eggs. It’s a creative way to enjoy avocado at breakfast.

Avocado Pizza

Pizza gets a creamy twist with the addition of avocado as a topping. Spread 1/4 cup of tomato sauce over a pre-baked pizza crust, layer with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake at 450°F until the cheese is bubbly. After baking, top the pizza with slices of 2 ripe avocados, a handful of arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the tangy glaze and peppery arugula. This is a fresh, gourmet take on a classic comfort food.

Avocado Spring Rolls

Avocado spring rolls are a refreshing, healthy snack or appetizer. Fill rice paper wrappers with slices of 1 ripe avocado, shredded carrots, cucumber sticks, and fresh herbs like mint or cilantro. Roll tightly and serve with a dipping sauce made from 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of honey. These vibrant rolls are crunchy, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy avocado in a portable, mess-free format.

Avocado Mac and Cheese

Classic mac and cheese gets a nutrient boost from creamy avocado. Blend 2 ripe avocados with 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of garlic powder. Toss the sauce with 1 pound of cooked macaroni, adding pasta water to loosen if needed. This dish offers the indulgent comfort of traditional mac and cheese with an added layer of velvety avocado goodness. It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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