Bernie and I love avo’s we use them a lot in both smoothies and as an addition to meals with rice, I don’t why but they seem to go really well with rice dishes! Below is a little bit about St Lucian avo’s where Chef Bernie is from. I have included three ideas you can try. Let us know your favourite recipe :-)
Avocados are all the rage these days, and it’s easy to see why. They’re nutritious, delicious, and incredibly versatile, making them a staple in kitchens around the world. But have you tried avocados from St Lucia? These Caribbean gems are a real treat, and they bring a whole new level of flavour to your favourite avocado dishes.
First of all, let’s talk about the avocado itself. St Lucia avocados are larger than your typical Hass avocado, with a smooth, green skin that’s easy to peel. The flesh is creamy and buttery, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that’s absolutely addictive. And because they’re grown in the Caribbean, these avocados are packed with all the tropical goodness you could ever want.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the recipes! Here are three delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes that will have you falling in love with St Lucia avocados in no time.
- Caribbean Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad is the perfect way to showcase the flavors of St Lucia avocados. Simply dice up a few ripe avocados and combine them with chopped tomatoes, red onion, carrot, sweetcorn and fresh coriander. Put in a bed of salad of your choice, Drizzle with a simple dressing made from lime juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve this salad as a side dish or a light lunch, and enjoy the taste of the Caribbean wherever you are.
- Avocado and Shrimp Pasta
Who says avocado can’t be the star of a pasta dish? This recipe combines the creaminess of St Lucia avocados with the sweet, succulent flavor of fresh shrimp, creating a meal that’s sure to impress. Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to package instructions. While it’s cooking, sauté some chopped garlic and red pepper flakes in a pan with olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and cooked through. Then, add diced avocado and a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan, and stir everything together. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan, tossing it with the shrimp and avocado mixture. Top with chopped fresh parsley, and you’ve got a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious.
- Avocado Coconut Smoothie
This smoothie is the perfect way to start your day, or to enjoy as a refreshing snack on a hot Caribbean afternoon. Simply blend together one ripe St Lucia avocado, one cup of coconut milk, a handful of spinach, and a few ice cubes until smooth. You can add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter. Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy the tropical flavours of St Lucia in every sip.
Picking a ripe avocado at a supermarket can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are some tips to help you select a ripe avocado at the store:
Picking the right Avocado in the Supermarket
- Check the color: Look for avocados that are a deep green color that is almost black. Avoid avocados that are still bright green, as they may not be ripe yet. However, if you’re not planning to use the avocado for a few days, it’s okay to choose one that is still a bit green.
- Give it a gentle squeeze: Hold the avocado in the palm of your hand and give it a gentle squeeze. Ripe avocados will yield to gentle pressure, but they shouldn’t feel mushy. If the avocado feels hard, it’s not ripe yet. If it feels very soft or squishy, it may be overripe.
- Check the stem: If the avocado has a stem still attached, check its color. If the stem is brown or black, the avocado may be overripe. If the stem is still green, gently remove it and check the color of the flesh underneath. If it’s green, the avocado is ripe.
- Consider the weight: Ripe avocados will feel heavy for their size. If an avocado feels too light, it may be underripe.
- Look for blemishes: Avoid avocados with large bruises or dark spots. These could indicate that the avocado is overripe or has been damaged.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to select ripe avocados that are perfect for your recipes. And if you’re not planning to use the avocados right away, choose ones that are still slightly underripe and allow them to ripen at home on the counter. Happy shopping!
In conclusion, St Lucia avocados are a real treasure of the Caribbean, and they’re a must-try for any avocado lover. Whether you’re enjoying them in a salad, pasta dish, or smoothie, the creamy, buttery flavor of these avocados will transport you to a tropical paradise. So next time you’re food shopping, keep an eye out for St Lucia avocados – your taste buds will thank you.
