>Healthy Deal of the Week: Avocados

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Hass avocados are now 2 for $1.00 at participating Publix stores. I couldn't have been happier as I walked into the store and saw the large display overflowing with gorgeous green avocados. I purchased 6 avocados for $3.00, what a steal! The usual cost at this store is $1.29 per fruit. We all need more avocados in our life. They're a great source of oleic acid, which is a type of monounsaturated fat, the "good" fat. That's not all. They also contain potassium, fiber, vitamin K, magnesium, lutein, and a bunch of other vitamins and minerals. But, the best part is that they taste awesome!
Selecting your avocado
Most often the avocaods in the grocery store are not ripe yet, so you have to do a little planning. If you're not going to use them for a few days, choose ones that are firm with a lighter green skin. The avocados will continue to ripen at home and become softer and darker. Try to avoid ones that have sunken spots or cracks. Place in a paper bag or near some bananas at home to quicken ripening.
Storing your avocado
You can keep your ripe, uncut avocados in the refrigerator. If you have to store a portion of the cut avocado, sprinkle some lemon juice on it and wrap it in plastic wrap. You might notice some browning; you can simply scrape that top layer off an use as planned.
Eat your avocado
The list of possibilities is endless, but here are a few recipe ideas:
Guacamole, of course! I like mine with mango.
In salad
On sandwiches
In soup
Plain...great idea for infants learning to eat solids. They love the smooth, creamy texture!
In salsa
Add to an omelet
And however else you choose to eat it!