Avocados for the Rest of Us

Spring weather has finally arrived in Chicago! And yes, I mean rain. But, with rain comes the promise of gorgeous summer weather, weekends spent lounging on North Ave. Beach and cravings for refreshing meals and snacks. So, what better ingredient to focus on than Avocado? It's a healthy vegetable that contains monosaturated fats-the good kind!

Most of us get our avocado fix from nomming guacamole. I am guilty of this as well, so I've included my own Spicy guac recipe:

3 Ripe Avocados
1 Lime, cut in half
1/2 C. Diced Tomatoes
1/4 C. Diced Onions
2 Tsp. Dried Red Pepper Flakes
1.5 Tsp. Finely chopped Cilantro (If you don't love Cilantro (like I don't) this is optional)

Scoop out Avocado from the skin and begin mashing in a bowl. I prefer chunky guacamole so I gently mash the vegetable. Add tomatoes, onions, red pepper flakes and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice into guacamole and serve. To preserve the guacamole, add an avocado pit to the mixture.

*Tortilla chips are, obviously, the preferred accompaniment. However, guacamole tastes just as delicious on vegetables like carrots and celery. I also like to spread a little guac on my sandwiches in place of mayo or butter.