Typically eaten as a side dish or dip (but we all know it could be enjoyed as an entrée), guacamole has been a staple part of Mexican cuisine since the time of the Aztecs. Today, guacamole has become one of the most popular add-ons, dips, and sauces in the Americas and Canada, where it is informally known as guac.
Guacamole Fact: While the humble avocado is native to Mexico and Central America, it is grown and consumed in all areas of the world. The people of Sri Lanka even enjoy their own rendition of guacamole by making a creamy avocado sauce.
Benefits Of Avocados
Great For Vision
Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that are primarily concentrated in eye tissues, avocados help to promote eye health. These phytochemicals have been known to minimize the damage from ultraviolet light. Additionally, monounsaturated fats in avocados work to aid the absorption of fat-soluble antioxidants like beta-carotene, a necessary nutrient to decrease the risk of macular degeneration.
Baby Food
Avocados contain folate, which is an important nutrient for developing fetuses. Pregnant women are encouraged to consume folate-rich foods in order to lower the risk of possible neutral tube defects or miscarriage. A recent study found that there was a 30% increase in birth defects of baby mice that were conceived using the sperm of folate deficient male mice, compared to the mice conceived with sperm that had high folate levels.
Nutrient Dense
Avocados are like nutrient bombs, being great sources of monounsaturated fats, magnesium, potassium, beta-carotene, lutein, folate, niacin, riboflavin, and vitamins C, E, K, and B6. The healthy fats in avocados help to keep you satiated, which can prevent overeating. These same healthy fats also slow the breakdown of carbohydrates, working to maintain constant blood sugar levels.
How To Celebrate Guacamole Day
There’s really only one way to celebrate…with a giant bowl of guacamole of course! Make a large batch and eat it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks in between if you like. Is that too much guacamole? Wait…is too much guacamole even a thing? However you decide to celebrate National Guacamole Day, we hope you make some of the following recipes.
Easy Guacamole
Guacamole is one of the easiest dips to make, and it contains a bunch of essential nutrients that you need in your body. Try this recipe!
Click here to make the recipe.
Spicy & Sweet Mango Guacamole
Looking for a dip that will help boost your energy levels, nourish your brain cells, and regulate blood sugar? This is that dip. Try it out!
Click here to make the recipe.
The OG Guac Recipe
This is a great guacamole recipe. It is so simple to make and helps to fill you up. Avocados also contain beneficial heart healthy fats!
Click here to make the recipe.
