(NAPSA)-Smooth, creamy Hass avocados offer
health-conscious individuals a smart substitute for spreads and dips
typically laden with cholesterol and saturated fat. One of the only
fruits containing monounsaturated fats, avocados can be used to help
manage the risk of cardiovascular disease when eaten as part of an
overall lower-fat and calorie-controlled diet.
A healthy type of fat, a silky smooth texture and
a light, nutty flavor make Del Monte Hass avocados a "must have" fruit.
The best way to tell if a Hass avocado is ready for immediate use is to
gently squeeze the fruit in the palm of your hand. Ripe, ready-to-eat
fruit will have a dark green to black pebbly skin and will be firm yet
will yield to gentle pressure.
As a substitute for mayonnaise on sandwiches,
mashed avocados are hard to beat. Another healthy substitution is
avocado dip instead of sour cream-based dip. Two ounces of traditional
potato chips with two tablespoons ranch dip gives you 35g of fat, but
two ounces of baked tortilla chips dipped into two tablespoons guacamole
provides only 7g of fat. There are lots of ways to use versatile Del
Monte avocados to cut your saturated fat. Here are some other great
ideas.
·
Top a baked potato with mashed avocados instead of sour
cream or butter
·
Spread bagels or toast with mashed avocados instead of
cream cheese or butter
·
Add sliced avocados to sandwiches instead of cheese
·
Use chopped avocados instead of cheese in a salad or an
omelet
For more
information how to enjoy the recommended 5 cups of fruits and vegetables
needed each day, visit
www.5aday.org.