6 Avocado Substitutes That Are Just As Good
Avocados are a unique fruit that has taken the culinary world by storm. Their bright green color, creamy texture, and light flavor make them a beloved food for many. Not only are they incredibly versatile, but they’re also packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and essential nutrients. Since they don’t have a strong flavor they can be used in a variety of dishes like dips, toppings, smoothies, baked goods, and more. However, not everybody is a fan of this creamy fruit, whether due to taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or cost considerations. Some people can’t stand the taste as it seems bland or may experience stomach problems when they eat too much of it. People may even experience allergic reactions. Either way if there is a reason you can’t eat avocados, don’t fret! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of avocado substitutes that are just as good and might even surprise you with their versatility.
Avocados are a unique fruit
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The Best Avocado Substitutes
Avocados are a real superfood. However, if you aren’t too fond of them or you can’t enjoy them due to health reasons, you’re in luck. There are plenty of other common foods you can use instead of avocados that offer similar nutritional benefits and textures. Whether you need a cooking substitute, looking for something more budget-friendly, or you just aren’t in the mood for avocado, these alternatives will ensure your recipes remain delicious and nutritious.
There are plenty of other common foods you can use instead of avocados
#Hummus
When it comes to dips and spreads, hummus is giving avocados a serious run for their money. While guacamole is a classic dip and goes well with chips, celery sticks, pepper slices, and carrots sticks, hummus offers an equally creamy and satisfying alternative. Its main ingredient, chickpeas, are a nutritional powerhouse packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals. What makes hummus truly special is its incredible versatility – try classic versions with tahini and olive oil, or get creative with roasted red pepper, beetroot, or even chocolate variations! Pro tip: For extra creaminess, blend your hummus with a splash of ice-cold water and extra virgin olive oil.
Hummus is giving avocados a run for their money
#Mashed banana
Bananas have a very similar texture to avocados, making them an excellent substitute in many recipes. Their creamy consistency works wonderfully in smoothies, oatmeal, and baked goods. While they are sweeter than avocados, this natural sweetness can be a bonus in many recipes, allowing you to reduce added sugars. For the best results in baking, use overripe bananas – they’re sweeter and easier to mash. Pro tip: When using bananas as an avocado substitute in smoothies, freeze them first for an extra creamy texture. For savory dishes, try using just-ripe bananas and adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Bananas have a very similar texture to avocados
#Pesto
If you love that gooey texture of avocado then pesto is your perfect green alternative. Much like mashed avocados, pesto offers a luxurious, creamy texture that’s perfect for spreading and dipping. Made traditionally with fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil, pesto is a nutrient-rich condiment packed with vitamin A, iron, protein, magnesium, and healthy fats. Get creative with your pesto by trying different variations – swap pine nuts for walnuts or almonds, experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley, or make it vegan by using nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. It’s particularly divine on toast with eggs, and creates magic when paired with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.
Pesto has a moist and oily texture
#Edamame
We love the vibrant green color of avocado, and edamame matches that beautiful hue while offering its own unique benefits. These young soybeans are nutritional powerhouses, packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. For a creamy spread similar to mashed avocado, steam and blend edamame with a touch of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. This creates a smooth, creamy spread that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip. Pro tip: Add a handful of mint leaves and a dash of sesame oil to your edamame spread for an Asian-inspired twist that’s absolutely delicious.
These delicious soy beans are also a vibrant green color
#Mashed pumpkin
If you need something that has a similar texture to avocado then pumpkin purée is an excellent alternative, especially in baking and cooking. While pumpkins have a natural sweetness that differs from avocado’s earthiness, this can be balanced with herbs and spices for savory dishes. For best results, roast your pumpkin instead of boiling it – this concentrates the flavors and reduces excess moisture. Add sage, thyme, and a touch of nutmeg for savory applications, or cinnamon and maple syrup for sweet dishes. Pro tip: Mix pumpkin purée with Greek yogurt and a pinch of salt for a creamy spread that works beautifully on sandwiches.
Keep in mind that pumpkins have a natural sweetness to them
#Chia seeds
While chia seeds might not mimic avocado’s taste, they’re nutritional superstars that can replace avocados in many applications. These tiny powerhouses are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making them an excellent substitute when you’re looking to add nutritional value to your dishes. When soaked in liquid, chia seeds develop a gel-like consistency that can add creaminess to smoothies, puddings, and baked goods. Pro tip: Create a chia gel by mixing 1 part chia seeds with 6 parts water and letting it sit for 15 minutes – this can be used as an egg replacer in baking or to add creaminess to smoothies. For an extra nutritional boost, try combining chia seeds with other superfoods like hemp seeds or flaxseeds.
Much like avocados these tiny seeds are packed with omega-3s
These versatile avocado substitutes offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking to match avocado’s creamy texture, nutritional profile, or just want to try something new. Each alternative brings its own unique benefits and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Remember, the key to successful substitution is understanding what role avocado plays in your recipe – whether it’s providing creaminess, nutrition, or binding properties – and choosing your substitute accordingly.
These are some of the best avocado substitutes you can use
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