Ten ways to eat an avocado

Is there a more perfect food than the avocado? If so, I'd like to know. Mild flavor? Check. Buttery texture? Check. Loads of nutrients? Check. Did I mention that eating avocados can actually make you a happier person?

As an ingredient, avocados make a persuasive argument for culinary minimalism, as they are best enjoyed in simple, unfussy dishes that allow their delicious flavor and texture to take center stage. They are the Audrey Hepburn of the food world: elegant, understated, and effortlessly chic.

And so, without further ado, I present you with {drum roll, please}...

Ten ways to eat an avocado

1. Guacamole, of course. Everyone knows that guacamole is really just an excuse to eat avocado. For simple and amazing guac, take two peeled avocados and mix in a clove of minced garlic, half a diced red onion, 1-2 minced serrano chiles, juice from half a lime, some roughly chopped cilantro, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with tortilla chips or pita chips.

2. Cut into thin ribbons and layered on top of toasted baguette with a smattering of goat cheese and a sprinkle of diced chives.

3. In a multi-grain pita with tomato, sprouts, and oil & vinegar.

4. Cubed and tossed in a simple salad of arugula, brie, grilled shrimp, and grapes (especially good with a yogurt-cucumber dressing).

5. In a Caprese salad. Layer thinly sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, red onion, and avocado, and drizzle with a high-quality olive oil. Add coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Great for a dinner party.

6. Avocado bruschetta. Finely dice 2 avocados and add 2 chopped scallions, juice from half a lime, a tablespoon of white wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, one minced garlic clove, 2 teaspoons cayenne-based hot sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve over toasted baguette slices. For a fancier version, serve this on top of seared tuna steaks or mixed with sushi-grade raw tuna for avocado-tuna tartare.

7. As a ABLT (Avocado, Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwich. Vegetarians, substitute swiss cheese for the bacon.

8. Mashed with lemon juice, salt, and pepper on some freshly-toasted rye bread. (This makes a healthy and yummy breakfast.)

9. Diced, in an omelette with cheddar cheese, scallions, and mushrooms, topped with salsa fresca.

10. And, for the ultimate minimalist treat: scooped straight from the peel, with a tiny sprinkle of salt.

Extra credit weekend assignment: Make a nourishing and all-natural avocado face mask for healthy and glowing skin.

What's your favorite way to eat an avocado?

Images via Flickr user AZwebear.