Avocado

Avocados have soft, buttery flesh and a mild, slightly nutty flavour, and are the only fruit that contains fat (monounsaturated fat). Because of their pear shape, avocados are sometimes called ’avocado pear’ or ‘alligator pear’, referring to the rough skin texture of some varieties, such as Sharwill and Hass. Other varieties have thin, smooth skin, such as Fuerte, and the small, stoneless cocktail avocado.

Avocados are best eaten raw — cut in half and serve with a vinaigrette; slice and add to salads; purée for use in dips or guacamole; or use as a base for sweet dishes such as ice cream. Cut avocado turns brown, so cut it just before use or brush with lemon juice to stop it discolouring.