10 Unexpected Ways to Use Avocados

Ah, avocado toast. The ambrosia so tasty, an entire generation would voluntarily give up their dream of home ownership just to nosh on it.

OK, that was a joke — but in all seriousness, avocados are awesome! And they’re good for much, much more than just toast and guacamole. Avocados are a nutritional powerhouse. They pack tons of vitamins, minerals and, most importantly, essential fatty acids into one green fruit. And avocados aren’t just tasty to eat. They make for some fantastic natural beauty treatments, too!

New Spin on Hummus

While hummus is delightful on its own, it isn’t naturally the most flavorful dip on the planet. However, the very blandness of chickpeas makes hummus the perfect neutral backdrop for other flavors. Try this delicious recipe, which uses avocados, parsley and mint to make a savory dip for pita chips and far more.

Grill ‘Em Up

Grilling just about any veggie is a great way to add smoky flavor with no added calories, and avocados are no exception. Cut and peel your avocados and brush lightly with olive oil, then wrap them in foil and place them on the grill for approximately two to three minutes. To add an extra flavor punch, add a touch of lemon or lime juice.

Would You Like Fries With That?

Avocados can make for a delish and healthy alternative to traditional French fries — and the best part is, there’s no frying necessary, so no oil splatter! All you’ll need is an egg and some panko breading. Slice and peel the avocado, and dip the slices into the egg, then into the panko breadcrumbs. Feel free to add chili powder for an added flavor kick. Then, pop in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, and enjoy!

Deliciously Green Salad Dressing

Why not dress your salad with even more veggies? You’ll need a mini food processor, olive oil, cilantro, garlic and other herbs and spices to taste. Add the ingredients into your mini food processor and give it a whirl.

Scrumptious Desserts — Yes, Desserts!

Avocados are so remarkably versatile and high in healthy oils, they make a natural substitute for other oils in baking. You can use avocados in brownies, cookies, cakes and even ice cream! A simple Google search for avocado desserts will open up a world of possibilities. Be creative, and add a healthy punch to your holiday baking this year.

Moisturize Your Cuticles

You can use avocado oil for a ton of cosmetic purposes. If you’re prone to cuticles that split, peel and make the surrounding skin red and painful, it’s avocado oil to the rescue! Massage a few drops of avocado oil into your cuticles. Repeat as often as necessary throughout the day. The oil keeps your cuticles from running ragged, and the high vitamin E content soothes and heals the surrounding skin.

At-Home Hot Oil Treatment

Avocado oil makes for an amazing healthy hair treatment as well. Wash your hair as you normally would. Then, apply a liberal amount of avocado oil to your hair, concentrating on the ends. Wrap your head in a nice terry towel or wrap for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse, and enjoy the silky feel of your refreshed hair.

Give Your Skin a Healthy Glow

If you have dry skin, adding a few drops of avocado oil to your favorite scrub can help you exfoliate while also replenishing needed moisture. And because it’s a natural oil, it’s safe to use even around the delicate eye area. But don’t stop there! Add avocado oil to your favorite foot scrub to heal cracked heels, or rub the oil into your soles and don some fluffy socks before bed. You’ll awaken with baby-smooth feet.

Avocados in the Boudoir? Yes, Please!

Avocado oil can make for an excellent lubricant, as well as a marvelous base for a healing massage oil. Add a few drops of your favorite scented oil to your avocado oil. Lavender is a delightful scent to aid in relaxation as you massage away your partner’s cares. And avocado oil is cold-pressed, meaning it’s safe to use as a natural lube if you need a little extra should the massage turn into more.

And Finally, Grow Your Lifetime Supply!

You know that pit that’s inside your avocado? That’s a growable seed. If you have a spot in your yard and happen to live in a milder climate, why not grow a lifetime supply of avocado? Avocados grow on trees, and they thrive best in warmer climates, such as that found across most of the Southwest and California. And since they’re so versatile, just one avocado tree can become both a valuable food source and a beauty bargain for years to come.

So what are you waiting for? Now that you know all the fabulous uses of avocado, get yourself to the grocer’s and pick up some today.