Avocado Angel Eggs
Avocado Angel Eggs Recipe with Lemon, Garlic, and Capers
Introduction
Avocado Angel Eggs offer a delightful twist on the classic deviled eggs, incorporating the creamy texture and rich flavor of avocados. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional deviled eggs, which typically include mayonnaise and mustard. The combination of ripe avocados, lemon juice, and a hint of garlic creates a delicious filling, while the garnish of bell pepper slivers adds a pop of color and crunch. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a nutritious snack, or simply want to add a creative dish to your meal, Avocado Angel Eggs are sure to impress.
History
The concept of deviled eggs dates back centuries, with variations of stuffed eggs found in ancient Roman cuisine. The modern version of deviled eggs, filled with a mixture of egg yolk, mayonnaise, and mustard, became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century. Avocado Angel Eggs are a contemporary adaptation of this classic dish, reflecting the growing trend towards healthier, avocado-based recipes. The incorporation of avocados not only adds a nutritional boost but also offers a unique, creamy texture and flavor that complements the eggs perfectly.
Ingredients
- 12 large hard-cooked eggs, peeled
- 2 ripe california avocados
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 0.25 tbsp coarse ground garlic powder
- 2 tbsp finely chopped shallots or green onions
- 2 tsp mashed capers, optional
- garnish: slivers of red, yellow or green bell pepper
How to prepare
- Slice each egg in half lengthwise, removing the egg yolks.
- Use the egg yolks in another recipe.
- Cut the avocado in half and remove the seed.
- Peel the avocado and cube it.
- In a bowl, combine the avocado, lemon juice, and garlic, mashing them together to blend.
- Stir in shallots or green onions and capers, if desired.
- Fill each egg white with the avocado mixture.
- Garnish with bell pepper.
- Serve.
Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of diced jalapeƱos to the avocado mixture.
- Incorporate crumbled bacon or smoked salmon for added flavor and protein.
- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus note.
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder on top for a colorful and flavorful garnish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Avocado Angel Eggs turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Use eggs that are a few days old, as they are easier to peel after being hard-cooked.
- To achieve evenly cooked eggs with centered yolks, place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let stand covered for 12 minutes.
- Quickly cool the eggs under cold running water or in an ice bath to prevent a green ring from forming around the yolks.
- Choose avocados that are ripe but still firm to make the filling easier to handle and to maintain a good texture.
Serving Suggestions
Avocado Angel Eggs can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They pair well with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or as part of a brunch spread. For a more filling option, serve alongside a protein source such as grilled chicken or fish.
Cooking Techniques
The key cooking technique in this recipe is hard-cooking the eggs to ensure they are easy to peel and have a firm white and fully cooked yolk. Mashing the avocado mixture to a smooth consistency is also crucial for achieving the right texture for the filling.
Ingredient Substitutions
If avocados are not available, try using a thick, plain Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
- Shallots can be used in place of green onions for a milder onion flavor.
- If capers aren't to your liking, diced pickles can provide a similar tangy crunch.
Make Ahead Tips
Avocado Angel Eggs can be prepared up to one day in advance. Store the egg whites and avocado filling separately in the refrigerator, and fill the eggs just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Avocado Angel Eggs on a platter garnished with fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro. For an elegant touch, pipe the avocado mixture into the egg whites using a pastry bag fitted with a star tip.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Avocado Angel Eggs with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or with a light, citrusy beer. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Avocado Angel Eggs are best enjoyed fresh and do not require reheating. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Note that the avocado may brown slightly, but this will not affect the taste.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Avocado Angel Eggs (assuming one serving is two egg halves) contains approximately 150 calories. The majority of these calories come from the healthy fats in the avocado and egg yolk.
Carbohydrates
Avocado Angel Eggs are relatively low in carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The primary source of carbs in this recipe comes from the avocados, which contain about 9 grams of carbohydrates per half. However, avocados are also high in fiber, with approximately 7 grams per half, reducing the net carb count.
Fats
Avocados are renowned for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. A single avocado contains approximately 22 grams of fat, contributing to the creamy texture and satisfying nature of Avocado Angel Eggs. The eggs themselves also contain healthy fats, primarily in the form of unsaturated fats found in the yolks.
Proteins
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, with each large egg providing about 6 grams of protein. This makes Avocado Angel Eggs a protein-rich snack or appetizer, ideal for supporting muscle health and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Vitamins and minerals
Avocado Angel Eggs are packed with vitamins and minerals. Avocados are a great source of vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin E, while eggs provide vitamin D, B6, B12, selenium, and zinc. Together, these ingredients make for a nutrient-dense dish that supports overall health.
Alergens
The primary allergen present in Avocado Angel Eggs is eggs. Individuals with a sensitivity or allergy to eggs should avoid this dish. This recipe is gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with common food allergies or intolerances.
Summary
Avocado Angel Eggs are a nutritious alternative to traditional deviled eggs, offering a good balance of healthy fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are low in carbohydrates and calories, making them a guilt-free addition to any meal or gathering.
Summary
Avocado Angel Eggs are a nutritious and delicious twist on a classic appetizer. With their combination of healthy fats, proteins, and essential nutrients, they offer a satisfying and guilt-free option for any occasion. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a tasty snack, these eggs are sure to delight.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Avocado Angel Eggs. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished browsing through a cookbook at the local library when I came across a section on creative ways to use avocados. As someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, I was immediately intrigued.
The recipe called for combining ripe avocados with hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and a few other ingredients to create a creamy and delicious filling. The mixture would then be spooned back into the egg whites and topped with a sprinkle of paprika. It sounded like a unique twist on the classic deviled eggs that I had been making for years.
Excited to try something new, I quickly jotted down the ingredients and instructions on a scrap piece of paper and headed home to give it a whirl. As soon as I walked through the door, I set to work gathering all the necessary ingredients from my pantry and refrigerator.
I carefully mashed the ripe avocados in a bowl, added in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and a splash of lemon juice for acidity. I seasoned the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. The vibrant green hue of the avocado mixed with the bright yellow yolks of the eggs created a beautiful and appetizing filling.
As I tasted the mixture, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The creamy texture of the avocado paired perfectly with the richness of the eggs, while the tangy mayonnaise and mustard added a zesty kick. I couldn't wait to share this new creation with my family and friends.
The next day, I hosted a small gathering at my home and decided to serve the Avocado Angel Eggs as an appetizer. I carefully spooned the filling back into the egg whites, taking care to make them look as angelic as possible. I topped each one with a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
As my guests arrived and sampled the Avocado Angel Eggs, I watched with anticipation to see their reactions. To my delight, they were met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had discovered a new favorite dish that would become a staple at future gatherings.
Over the years, the recipe for Avocado Angel Eggs became a beloved classic in my repertoire. I would often whip up a batch for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and even just for a simple snack at home. It was a dish that never failed to impress and delight those who tried it.
As I reflect on the journey of how I learned to make Avocado Angel Eggs, I am grateful for the serendipitous moment of stumbling upon that recipe in the cookbook. It opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of using avocados in unexpected ways and sparked a newfound creativity in my cooking.
To this day, whenever I make Avocado Angel Eggs, I am reminded of that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe that would become a cherished favorite. It serves as a delicious reminder of the joy and excitement that comes with trying something new in the kitchen and sharing it with loved ones.
Categories
| Caper Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Green Onion Recipes | Hard-boiled Egg Recipes | Hass Avocado Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Red Bell Pepper Recipes | Shallot Recipes | Yellow Bell Pepper Recipes |