Stuffed Avocado

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Stuffed Avocado is a delicious and nutritious meal or snack that’s as satisfying as it is versatile. Ripe, creamy avocado halves are hollowed out and filled with a variety of flavorful ingredients. For a savory version, you can stuff the avocado with a mix of chicken salad, tuna, or black beans, along with veggies like tomatoes, onions, and a sprinkle of cheese. For a lighter option, you can fill it with a zesty quinoa salad, or even a simple blend of diced cucumber, corn, and lime. The rich, buttery texture of the avocado pairs perfectly with the freshness of the stuffing, making it an irresistible combination.

I first made Stuffed Avocado when I was looking for a light yet satisfying lunch. The idea of using avocado as a vessel for all sorts of delicious fillings was so appealing, and the creamy texture of the avocado with the flavorful filling was a perfect match. It quickly became one of my favorite easy meals, especially when I was craving something fresh and filling.

What I love most about Stuffed Avocado is how customizable it is. You can use just about any protein or veggie for the stuffing, and it’s also great for meal prep. Whether you keep it simple with a few ingredients or get creative with extra toppings like salsa or yogurt, Stuffed Avocado is an easy, healthy, and delicious meal that feels like a treat!

Perfect for:

  • Appetizers
  • Lunch or light dinner
  • Meal prep
  • Healthy snacks
  • Avocado lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Stuffed Avocado will quickly become one of your go-to dishes:

  • Simple and Quick: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes, perfect for busy days.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and plenty of vitamins and fiber.
  • Customizable Fillings: You can fill the avocado with a variety of ingredients like chicken, tuna, or veggies to suit your taste.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make several at once and store them for a quick, healthy meal later.
  • Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The combination of creamy avocado with zesty seasonings and toppings is always a hit.
  • Low-Carb Option: Naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
  • Kid-Friendly: A fun and easy way to introduce kids to healthy fats and fresh vegetables.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: A great appetizer for parties or gatherings—delicious and easy to serve.
  • Gluten-Free: Ideal for those following a gluten-free diet.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and go for a filling that’s 100% plant-based.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 0 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Avocado:

  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (or your preferred protein)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup diced tomato
  • ¼ cup corn kernels (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Avocado: Rich in heart-healthy fats and fiber, the avocado serves as the creamy base for this dish.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavor.
  • Lime Juice: Provides the perfect tang to balance the richness of the avocado.
  • Tomatoes and Corn: Add a refreshing crunch and sweetness to the stuffing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Avocados:

  1. Cut the Avocados: Slice the avocados in half and remove the pit. Use a spoon to scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create room for the filling, being careful not to break the shell.
  2. Mash the Flesh: Mash the scooped-out avocado with a fork and set it aside to use in the filling.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the cooked chicken (or preferred protein), red onion, cilantro, mashed avocado, lime juice, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  2. Add the Fresh Veggies: Gently fold in the diced tomato and corn (if using).

Assemble the Stuffed Avocados:

  1. Stuff the Avocados: Spoon the filling into the avocado halves, packing it in gently.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey (if using), Dijon mustard, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Drizzle the Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the stuffed avocados for extra flavor.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes, if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Stuffed Avocado:

  • As an Appetizer: Serve as a light starter at your next dinner party or gathering.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh, crisp salad for a complete, healthy meal.
  • For Meal Prep: Prepare several stuffed avocados and store them in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.
  • With a Side of Chips: Enjoy with tortilla chips or pita chips for an extra crunch.
  • For Taco Night: Use the stuffed avocados as a side dish for taco nights or other Mexican-inspired meals.
  • With a Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp or fish on top for an extra dose of protein.
  • For a Light Lunch: A quick and healthy lunch that’s satisfying without being too heavy.
  • With a Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
  • As a Snack: Perfect for a filling, nutritious snack when you’re craving something fresh.
  • With a Fresh Drink: Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to complement the dish.

Additional Tips

  • Choose Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe for the best flavor and texture.
  • Make it Vegan: Use plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu for a vegan version.
  • Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t overstuff the avocado, as it could make the halves unstable.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and corn add vibrant flavor and texture.
  • Add a Crunch: For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts or seeds to the filling.

Recipe Variations

  • Tuna Stuffed Avocado: Replace chicken with canned tuna for a lighter version.
  • Vegetarian Stuffed Avocado: Skip the meat and load up with more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.
  • Spicy Stuffed Avocado: Add diced jalapeños or sriracha sauce for a spicy version.
  • Greek-Inspired Stuffed Avocado: Use feta cheese, olives, and cucumber for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Egg Salad Stuffed Avocado: Replace the protein with a creamy egg salad for a filling breakfast or lunch.
  • Crispy Chicken Stuffed Avocado: Add crispy chicken strips to the stuffing for added texture.
  • BBQ Chicken Stuffed Avocado: Use shredded BBQ chicken for a smoky flavor profile.
  • Pico de Gallo Stuffed Avocado: Use fresh pico de gallo instead of plain tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Beef Bacon and Avocado: Add crispy beef bacon crumbles to the stuffing for a savory, salty kick.

Special Equipment

  • Sharp Knife: For cutting the avocados cleanly.
  • Spoon: For scooping out the avocado flesh without damaging the skin.
  • Mixing Bowl: For preparing the filling.
  • Whisk: For mixing the dressing ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
    Yes, frozen corn works well. Just thaw and drain before using.
  2. How long will the stuffed avocados last in the fridge?
    These are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
  3. Can I make the filling in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time, but assemble the avocados just before serving.
  4. Can I use a different dressing?
    Absolutely! You can use ranch, tahini, or a balsamic glaze for a different flavor.
  5. Can I add cheese to the filling?
    Yes, cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can be added to the filling for extra creaminess.
  6. What other toppings can I use?
    You can top with sliced olives, diced cucumber, or even a sprinkle of paprika.
  7. Can I use store-bought guacamole instead of the filling?
    Yes, if you’re in a pinch, store-bought guacamole works as a quick alternative.
  8. Can I make this dish without lime juice?
    You can substitute lemon juice for lime juice or skip it entirely if needed.
  9. What other proteins can I use for stuffing?
    Try using shrimp, ground beef, or even roasted vegetables for a unique twist.
  10. How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?
    To prevent browning, sprinkle the cut sides of the avocado with lime or lemon juice and store in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Avocado is a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy the creamy richness of avocado while incorporating flavorful fillings. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, snack, or appetizer, this dish is quick to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. The creamy avocado acts as the perfect vessel for a variety of fillings, adding both texture and healthy fats to your meal.

The magic of this recipe lies in the versatility of the stuffing. You can stuff your avocado with chicken salad, tuna salad, quinoa, black beans, or even a zesty Mediterranean mix with feta, cucumber, and olives. Top it off with a sprinkle of seasoning, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

I’d love to see your Stuffed Avocado creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your beautiful, creative stuffed avocados. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any fun variations or ingredients that made your stuffed avocado uniquely yours!

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