Kids & Company Blog

All About Avocados

One thing we know, Avocados are here to stay. Unlike some superfoods that while indeed super, are super hard to find, (I’m looking at you - Aronia Berries) avocados can be found at most local grocery stores. They’re incredibly popular due to their great flavour and rich, creamy texture.

Avocados have a total of 20 different nutrients and vitamins and are one of the most nutrient-rich foods out there! Don’t be scared away by the higher fat content of avocados as they contain mainly “good” fat called monounsaturated fat (the same type of fat found in olive oil). A diet high in monounsaturated fat from avocados has been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol. Monounsaturated fat can also help reduce inflammation in the body. In addition to lowering cholesterol, these fats are great for hydrating and keeping our skin's firmness! Avocados are also rich in fibre, folate, B vitamins and vitamin E!

This delicious fruit is native to Central and South America, where they have been cultivated for over 10,000 years! Avocados are a great replacement to traditional spreads such as butter and mayonnaise. The Kidco Kitchen uses a yummy avocado spread in our field trip lunches adding extra nutrition to our picnic sandwiches. Next time you go to butter your toast in the morning, why not try an avocado spread instead!

There are so many unique ways avocado can be used in children’s meals. While your go-to may be delicious guacamole, that’s only just the start. Here are a few yummy, kid-friendly ideas. 

• Avocado puree for infants
• Avocado Pasta - Oh She Glows
• Avocado, Blueberry Smoothie - All Recipes
• Add avocado to our Fancy Bean Tacos for added oomph!
• Ladybugs on a stick - https://www.californiaavocado.com/recipe-details/view/31493/lady-bugs-on-a-stick

Avocado Quick-Tips

1. If you want to speed up the ripening process, put your avocado in a paper bag with a ripe apple!
2. Likewise, if you want to slow down the ripening process, you can store your avocados in the fridge!
3. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to assess ripeness! When they’re ripe, they’ll be almost entirely black and soft to the touch.
4. If you like to add avocado to your smoothies, try this hack. Blend avocado and lemon juice together until pureed and put them in ice cube trays to freeze. You’ll have perfectly portioned, smoothie-ready avocado every day.

If you're having trouble getting your little one to try new foods (like avocado) check out this blog!

Cheers,

Chef Lisa

Posted on: Wednesday February 19th, 2020

Posted by: Lisa Ruscica