Avocado Cream
A velvety avocado cream comes together in just a few minutes and is far more versatile than many people think. Whether as a dip for crunchy raw veg, a partner for anything off the grill, or a creamy spread on fresh bread, this green cream shines everywhere. Fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon give it a lovely aromatic lift. You might also know it as guacamole.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado
- 6 leaves fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic
- splash freshly squeezed lemon juice
- salt
- freshly ground pepper
- to taste cold-pressed olive oil, optional
Instructions
- Halve the avocado and scoop the flesh out of the skin with a spoon. Set the stone aside (see tip).
- Cut the avocado flesh into small pieces or roughly mash it with a fork.
- Finely chop the garlic and the basil leaves.
- Mix the avocado flesh, garlic, basil and freshly squeezed lemon juice into an even mixture. For an especially smooth texture, use a stick blender.
- Season the cream with salt and pepper. If you like, stir in a little cold-pressed olive oil to make it even creamier.
- Tip: If you're making the avocado cream a few hours ahead, pop the avocado stone back into the finished cream, cover the container and chill. This helps keep that fresh green colour. Just remove the stone again before serving.
Nutrition facts per serving (estimate)
| Calories | 160 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fibre | 4 g |
| of which sugar | 0.5 g |
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop avocado cream from turning brown?
Place the avocado stone into the finished cream, cover the container and keep it in the fridge. This helps keep the green colour.
Can I freeze avocado cream?
You can freeze it, but the texture changes slightly once thawed. It's best made fresh and eaten within a day.
What goes best with avocado cream?
It's brilliant as a dip for raw veg and grilled vegetables, as a spread on bread, or as a sauce for pasta.
Is avocado cream the same as guacamole?
It's similar, yes. Guacamole often also includes tomato and onion; this avocado cream leans on basil and garlic for a slightly more delicate flavour.
