When it comes to healthy snacking, few ingredients are as versatile and delicious as avocados. Not only do they provide a boost of creaminess and flavor, but they’re also packed with nutritious fats, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative ways to enjoy the rich flavors of avocado in snack form, from classic combinations like guacamole with homemade tortilla chips to more unexpected pairings like avocado and shrimp cucumber cups.
Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, a satisfying crunch, or a flavorful treat to get your day started right, we’ve got you covered with these 18 creamy avocado snack recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Avocado Toast with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and sweet combination of flavors. This simple recipe combines ripe avocados, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crispy bread for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette or rustic bread, toasted
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Slice into thin pieces.
3. In a small bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the avocado slices onto the toasted bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top the avocado with the cherry tomato halves.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Guacamole with Homemade Tortilla Chips
Elevate your snack game with this classic combination of creamy guacamole and crunchy homemade tortilla chips. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick gathering or as a healthy addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
For the Guacamole:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon salt
For the Tortilla Chips:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a large bowl and mash with a fork until smooth.
3. Add the chopped onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Mix well.
4. For the tortilla chips, cut the tortillas into triangles or strips. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tortilla pieces until crispy, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve the guacamole with the homemade tortilla chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes for guacamole, 10-12 minutes to fry the tortilla chips.
Avocado and Egg Salad Bites
A simple yet elegant appetizer or snack that combines the richness of avocado with the creaminess of eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 hard-boiled egg yolks, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini crostini or crackers
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocado and egg yolks.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Add the mayonnaise mixture to the avocado-egg mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the salad onto each crostini or cracker.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake affair.
Avocado Hummus with Veggie Sticks
A creamy and healthy twist on traditional hummus, this recipe combines the richness of avocados with the savory flavors of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon tahini
– Veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil and tahini. Continue blending until creamy and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve with veggie sticks for a healthy and delicious snack.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Avocado and Shrimp Cucumber Cups
These bite-sized cups are a perfect combination of creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and refreshing cucumber. They’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large cucumbers
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumbers into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Scoop out the avocado flesh and mix with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the shrimp in boiling water until pink and just cooked through (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Arrange a cucumber slice on each plate or serving surface.
5. Top with a spoonful of the avocado mixture, followed by 1-2 cooked shrimp per cup.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Avocado Yogurt Dip
A creamy and spicy twist on traditional guacamole, this dip is perfect for snacking or as a topping for your favorite dishes. With the tanginess of yogurt and the heat of jalapeños, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt, cilantro, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
3. Add the yogurt mixture to the avocado flesh and mash until smooth.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Serve: With tortilla chips, pita bread, or as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the creamy richness of avocado and the savory goodness of black beans. This recipe is a flavorful twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced avocado, black beans, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the avocado-black bean mixture.
4. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and fold the tortilla in half.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the filling is heated through.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make a second quesadilla.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Experience the rich flavors of dark chocolate and creamy avocado in this unique dessert recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend them in a food processor until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the avocado puree, melted chocolate, heavy cream, honey/sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Refrigerate the mousse for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to chill and set.
Cooking Time: None required – simply refrigerate!
Avocado and Tuna Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful fusion of creamy avocado, savory tuna, and sweet bell peppers, this recipe is a refreshing take on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mashed avocado, cilantro, and lime juice.
4. Stuff each pepper with the tuna-avocado mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Avocado Sushi Rolls
Experience the creamy delight of avocado sushi rolls, a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. This recipe is perfect for sushi lovers and those looking to add some healthy fats to their diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced into thin pieces
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed (dried or roasted)
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the avocado slices into small pieces.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place an avocado piece in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding cooking time for sushi rice)
Avocado and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your mushroom game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the earthiness of portobello mushrooms with the tanginess of feta cheese and the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Wipe the mushroom caps with a damp cloth and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the avocado-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Pesto Bruschetta
Elevate your bruschetta game with the creamy richness of avocado pesto! This recipe combines the best of both worlds, blending ripe avocados with fresh basil and garlic for a flavorful topping.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of baguette
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado, chopped basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top toasted bread slices with the avocado pesto mixture, spreading evenly.
5. Serve immediately, drizzling with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes toasting time)
Avocado and Bacon Deviled Eggs
These creamy, smoky deviled eggs are a perfect blend of classic flavors and modern twists. By adding ripe avocado and crispy bacon to the mix, you’ll create a show-stopping appetizer that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the egg yolks until cooked through.
2. Cut the egg whites in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks, placing them in a bowl.
3. In the bowl with the yolks, mix in mashed avocado, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Scoop the yolk mixture into the reserved egg white halves.
5. Garnish with paprika or chopped chives if desired.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including boiling eggs)
Avocado and Mango Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the creamy richness of avocado with the sweet, tangy flavor of mango, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
2. Stir in minced garlic until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This salsa is ready when you are.
Avocado and Chickpea Salad Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines creamy avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crispy whole wheat tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional: sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, chickpeas, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the avocado-chickpea mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat wrap.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Avocado and Coconut Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are a perfect blend of creamy avocado, nutritious coconut, and sweet dates to provide a natural energy boost. With only 7 ingredients and no baking required, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pitted Medjool dates, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the avocados until smooth.
2. Add the oats, shredded coconut, chopped dates, honey, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready to go straight from your hands.
Avocado and Smoked Salmon Canapés
These bite-sized canapés combine the richness of smoked salmon with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh and mash it in a bowl.
2. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mashed avocado and mix until smooth.
3. Top each baguette slice with a dollop of the avocado mixture, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Place a small piece of smoked salmon on top of the avocado.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado and Lime Ice Pops
Beat the heat with these creamy and tangy treats that combine the best of avocados and limes. Perfect for a hot summer day, these pops are a unique twist on traditional ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup water
– Ice pop molds
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the avocado flesh, lime juice, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the water to the blender and mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top for expansion.
4. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. To unmold, run the pops under warm water for a few seconds.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Get ready to go green with these creamy avocado snack recipes! From classic guacamole with homemade tortilla chips to innovative dishes like avocado and shrimp cucumber cups and avocado chocolate mousse, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy avocados as a dip with veggie sticks or use them in place of mayonnaise in deviled eggs. Try your hand at making avocado sushi rolls or stuffed mushrooms, or go sweet with avocado and mango salsa. With 18 delicious recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these creamy and nutritious snacks!
