the dark, bumpy exterior is a wonderful shell to hide the buttery, green flesh inside which surrounds a big, heavy pit. this amazing berry is filled with healthy fats, carbs and proteins along with a wide range of vitamins like folate, B6, vitamins K, E and C and minerals like magnesium, copper and potassium! did you stop reading at berry? are you wondering if we’re talking about the same avocado? all those years it was lumped in with vegetables, but

this could explain why the creamy texture works so well in every dish from sweet to savory, chocolate mousse to sandwich topping. we’ve had it sliced on toast, chopped in salads, mashed into guacamole, but there is so much more this humble little, well fruit, can create. take a look at some great dips that will take the avocado beyond the chips and salsa.

• 3/4 cup chopped spinach

• 1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (substitute any seeds you like)

• juice from 1/2 orange

• salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped mint

• 1/4 cup chopped basil

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• splash of balsamic vinegar to taste

• salt to taste

• 1/4 cup of cacao nibs

• 1/2 cup chopped mango (substitute pineapple but switch lemon juice to orange)

• 2 tbsp. toasted coconut

• juice from half a lemon

• drizzle of honey to taste

• 2 tbsp. greek yogurt

• juice from one key lime

• 1 tbsp. fresh chopped ginger

• 1/2 tsp. curry powder

• 1/2 chopped jalapeno (spicier, add the whole thing)

• 1 med. diced shallot

avocados can meet nearly any flavor profile, so they make a great base for a variety of dips. explore your pantry, spice rack and produce section to create the right combo for any occasion!