Avocado Roll-ups

Delicious Avocado Roll-ups Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Avocado Roll-ups are a delightful and refreshing appetizer perfect for any gathering or a light, nutritious snack. This recipe combines the creamy texture of avocados with the crispness of lettuce and the tanginess of sour cream, all wrapped up in a soft taco shell. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various tastes, making it a favorite among both adults and children.

History

The concept of roll-ups has been around for decades, originating from various cultures that appreciate the art of wrapping delicious fillings in bread or tortillas. The Avocado Roll-up, in particular, is a modern twist on traditional wraps, incorporating avocados due to their rising popularity in recent years. This recipe is inspired by the health-conscious and the growing trend of incorporating more plant-based ingredients into everyday meals.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Dice the avocados and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
Add 0.5 tsp of black pepper, 0.25 tsp of salt, a dash of garlic powder, a dash of onion powder, 0.13 cup of red wine vinegar, and 0.13 cup of olive oil. Stir well.
Spread sour cream to cover one side of the flour shell.
Place two tablespoons of the avocado mixture in the center of the shell. Add some shredded lettuce and shredded cheese.
Roll-up the shell with Saran Wrap and refrigerate for an hour.
Remove the Saran Wrap and slice the roll on a diagonal.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the avocado mixture.
Include diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked shredded chicken or ground beef to the filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Avocado Roll-ups turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Add a squeeze of lime juice to the avocado mixture to prevent browning and add a zesty flavor.

- Be gentle when rolling up the shells to prevent tearing.

- Chill the roll-ups before slicing to make the cutting process easier and to keep the shape intact.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Avocado Roll-ups as an appetizer at parties or as a light lunch. They pair well with salsa, guacamole, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the rolling of the taco shells to ensure they hold their shape without tearing. Chilling the roll-ups before slicing is also crucial for maintaining their structure.

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream.

- Any leafy green can be substituted for lettuce, such as spinach or arugula.

- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese and omit the sour cream.

Make Ahead Tips

Avocado Roll-ups can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day. It's best to add the sour cream and cheese just before serving to prevent the taco shells from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the roll-ups diagonally and arrange them on a platter garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro. Serve with a side of salsa or dipping sauce for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Avocado Roll-ups with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing margarita for a delightful combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Avocado Roll-ups are best enjoyed fresh and do not require reheating. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Avocado Roll-ups contains approximately 200-250 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the size of the servings and any additional ingredients you may choose to add.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Avocado Roll-ups contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the taco shells and avocados. The exact count may vary depending on the size of the taco shells and the ripeness of the avocados.

Fats

Avocados are known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. Each serving of Avocado Roll-ups contains about 15 grams of fat, the majority of which comes from the avocados.

Proteins

Avocado Roll-ups are not high in protein, containing about 3-5 grams per serving. To increase the protein content, consider adding a protein-rich ingredient like chicken, tofu, or beans to the avocado mixture.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of nutrients, including Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and various B vitamins. They also contain significant amounts of potassium and folate. These nutrients contribute to the overall health benefits of consuming Avocado Roll-ups.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (from the sour cream and cheese) and gluten (from the taco shells). For a dairy-free version, omit the sour cream and cheese or use dairy-free alternatives. For a gluten-free version, ensure to use gluten-free taco shells.

Summary

Avocado Roll-ups are a nutritious option that provides healthy fats, essential vitamins, and minerals. They are relatively low in calories, making them a great choice for those monitoring their calorie intake. However, be mindful of potential allergens and make substitutions as necessary.

Summary

Avocado Roll-ups are a versatile, nutritious, and delicious option suitable for various occasions. With the ability to customize the recipe to suit dietary needs and personal tastes, it's a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Avocado Roll-ups. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Mexico. I had always been fascinated by cooking, and I would often watch my grandmother and mother in the kitchen, absorbing as much knowledge as I could.

One day, a new family moved into the village, and they brought with them a wealth of new recipes and flavors. Among them was a woman named Maria, who quickly became friends with my grandmother. Maria was a fantastic cook, and she shared many of her recipes with my grandmother, including the one for Avocado Roll-ups.

I remember the first time Maria made the Avocado Roll-ups for us. It was a warm summer day, and she had come over for a visit. As she worked in the kitchen, I watched in awe as she carefully sliced the avocados, mixed them with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, and rolled them up in soft tortillas. The end result was a beautiful and delicious dish that I had never seen before.

I begged Maria to teach me how to make the Avocado Roll-ups, and she kindly agreed. Over the next few weeks, I spent countless hours in the kitchen with her, learning the ins and outs of the recipe. I watched as she taught me how to select the perfect avocados, how to properly dice the vegetables, and how to roll up the tortillas just right.

As I got older, I continued to make the Avocado Roll-ups for my family and friends. The recipe became a staple in our household, and it was always a hit at gatherings and parties. I loved the way the creamy avocado paired with the tangy salsa and crunchy vegetables, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Avocado Roll-ups, adding my own little twists and variations to the recipe. Sometimes I would add a sprinkle of cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce, depending on my mood. But no matter how I made them, they always brought back memories of that fateful day when Maria taught me how to make them.

As time passed, I learned many more recipes from various places and people. Each one held a special place in my heart, but the Avocado Roll-ups will always have a special significance for me. They remind me of my childhood, of my grandmother and mother teaching me the joys of cooking, and of Maria, who introduced me to a whole new world of flavors and ingredients.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing a batch of Avocado Roll-ups for my own grandchildren, I can't help but smile. I am passing down a tradition, a piece of my heritage, a taste of my past. And I hope that one day, my grandchildren will look back on these moments with the same fondness and appreciation that I do.

So, here's to the Avocado Roll-ups – a recipe that has stood the test of time and brought joy to generations. May they continue to bring people together, to create memories, and to inspire a love of cooking in all who taste them. And may they always remind us of the power of food to connect us, to nourish us, and to bring us closer to one another.