Craving a fresh, vibrant dish that’s both satisfying and good for you? This Grilled Avocados with Tomato Salsa recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy avocado recipes, offering smoky flavor and bright toppings in every bite. It’s perfect as a light meal or a stunning side.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Avocados: Choose ripe but firm avocados. No good substitute here!
- Tomatoes: Use ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes for best flavor. You can use canned diced tomatoes if fresh aren’t available.
- Red Onion: Shallots work well as a milder alternative.
- Cilantro: Fresh parsley can be used if you dislike cilantro.
- Lime Juice: Lemon juice is a good substitute.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Avocados:
- 2 ripe, firm avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
For the Tomato Salsa:
- 1 cup diced ripe tomatoes
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300
- Tools Needed: Grill or grill pan, mixing bowls, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s clean and ready for grilling. A hot grill helps create nice char marks on your healthy avocado recipes.
2. Halve and Season Avocados
Carefully slice each avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. This seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the avocado.
3. Grill the Avocados
Place the seasoned avocado halves cut-side down on the preheated grill. Grill for 3-5 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and the avocado is slightly softened. Be careful not to overcook them.
4. Make the Tomato Salsa
While the avocados are grilling, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and optional jalapeño in a medium bowl. Season the salsa with a pinch of salt and pepper, then gently stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Serve Your Dish
Remove the grilled avocados from the grill. Spoon a generous amount of fresh tomato salsa into the hollow where the pit used to be. Serve immediately for the best taste of this vibrant healthy avocado recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the salsa for extra heat.
- Creamy Addition: Drizzle with a little plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
- Herb Twist: Incorporate other fresh herbs like mint or basil into the salsa for a different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or cotija cheese after grilling.
- Protein Boost: Add some grilled shrimp or chickpeas on top for a more substantial meal.
Storage Instructions:
It’s best to enjoy grilled avocados immediately, as they tend to lose their texture and turn brown quickly. If you have leftover salsa, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Do not store the grilled avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you grill any type of avocado?
Hass avocados are generally the best for grilling due to their creamy texture and rich flavor.
How do I choose a good avocado for grilling?
Select an avocado that is ripe but still firm to the touch. It should yield slightly when gently squeezed, but not feel mushy.
What else can I serve with grilled avocados?
They make a great side for grilled chicken, fish, or even alongside a fresh green salad as part of your healthy avocado recipes.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop, or even roast the avocados in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
How do you prevent avocados from turning brown after cutting?
The lime juice in the salsa helps, but for the avocados themselves, serving them immediately after grilling is key to preventing browning.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
The salsa can be prepped ahead of time, but the grilling of the avocado should be done just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
