Aztec Avocado Salsa
Aztec Avocado Salsa Recipe - Vegan Food from Mexico
Introduction
The Aztec Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the crispness of cucumbers and the sharpness of scallions and jalapeños. This recipe is not only a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Aztec civilization but also a modern twist on traditional salsa recipes. Perfect for those looking for a healthy, flavorful addition to their meals, this salsa is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
History
The origins of avocado salsa can be traced back to the Aztec Empire, where avocados were highly valued for their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking. The Aztecs created a variety of dishes using avocados, including sauces and dips that resemble the modern-day salsa. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating ingredients from other cultures, leading to the delicious Aztec Avocado Salsa we enjoy today.
Ingredients
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and cut into 0.25-inch cubes
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 ripe avocados, cut into 0.25-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
How to prepare
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix them together.
- Season with salt to taste.
Variations
- For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding diced tomatoes, corn, or black beans. Adjusting the amount of jalapeño can also vary the heat level to suit your taste.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Aztec Avocado Salsa, consider the following tips:
- Use ripe avocados for a creamy texture.
- To prevent the avocado from browning, add lime juice immediately after cutting.
- For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño.
- If you prefer a smoother salsa, you can briefly pulse the ingredients in a food processor.
Serving Suggestions
Aztec Avocado Salsa can be served as a dip with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or as a fresh addition to tacos and salads.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy option. The key technique is chopping the ingredients to a uniform size for the best texture and flavor distribution.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have scallions, you can use red onion for a similar flavor. Lemon juice can be substituted for lime juice, and parsley can be used in place of cilantro if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
Aztec Avocado Salsa can be made up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salsa in a colorful bowl, garnished with a sprig of cilantro or a lime wedge. For individual servings, consider using avocado halves as natural bowls.
Pairing Recommendations
This salsa pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, chicken, or vegetables. It also complements Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Aztec Avocado Salsa is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of Aztec Avocado Salsa contains approximately 160 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie addition to meals that is rich in nutrients and flavor.
Carbohydrates
A serving of Aztec Avocado Salsa contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the avocados and cucumbers, providing a healthy source of energy.
Fats
Avocados are known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. A serving of this salsa contains about 15 grams of fat, the majority of which is healthy fat.
Proteins
This salsa is not a high-protein food, containing about 2 grams of protein per serving. However, it can be paired with protein-rich foods to create a balanced meal.
Vitamins and minerals
Aztec Avocado Salsa is an excellent source of vitamins C, E, and K, as well as folate and potassium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including immune system health, blood clotting, and heart health.
Alergens
This recipe is free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts. However, those with specific food sensitivities should review the ingredients list carefully.
Summary
Overall, Aztec Avocado Salsa is a nutritious dish that provides healthy fats, essential vitamins and minerals, and a moderate amount of calories. It's an excellent choice for those looking to add flavor and nutrition to their diet.
Summary
Aztec Avocado Salsa is a delightful and nutritious dish that pays homage to the culinary traditions of the Aztec Empire while offering a fresh and flavorful experience. With its simple preparation and versatile serving options, it's a perfect addition to any meal, providing a burst of flavor and a wealth of health benefits.
How did I get this recipe?
. The vibrant colors and bold flavors of the Aztec Avocado Salsa immediately caught my eye, and I knew I had to learn how to make it. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever seen before, a perfect fusion of traditional Mexican ingredients with a modern twist.
I remember the day I first came across the recipe like it was yesterday. I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, a treasure trove of culinary secrets and family traditions. As I flipped through the worn pages, my eyes landed on a page that was covered in a mix of handwritten notes and splatters of ingredients. It was a recipe for Aztec Avocado Salsa, and I knew that I had stumbled upon something special.
The recipe called for ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. It was a simple yet elegant combination of flavors that promised to be both refreshing and satisfying. As I read through the instructions, I could almost taste the creamy texture of the avocado mingling with the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes. I knew that I had to make this dish and share it with my family and friends.
I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully selecting the ripest avocados and the plumpest tomatoes from the local market. I couldn't wait to get started on making the salsa, eager to bring the flavors of the Aztec Avocado Salsa to life in my own kitchen. As I chopped and diced the ingredients, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their culinary knowledge and love of cooking.
As the salsa came together, I couldn't help but marvel at the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas that filled the air. The creamy texture of the avocado mixed with the juicy tomatoes and spicy jalapeños was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I knew that I had discovered a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that would be shared and cherished for years to come.
I served the Aztec Avocado Salsa at a family gathering, watching as my loved ones took their first bites and savored the explosion of flavors. The dish was a hit, with everyone clamoring for the recipe and asking for seconds. As I watched my family enjoy the salsa, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction knowing that I had learned to make it from scratch.
Since that day, the Aztec Avocado Salsa has become a beloved dish in my family, a recipe that is passed down from one generation to the next. I have taught my own children and grandchildren how to make the salsa, sharing the story of how I first discovered the recipe and the joy it has brought to our family. Each time we gather around the table to enjoy the salsa, I am reminded of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories.
In the end, the Aztec Avocado Salsa is more than just a recipe. It is a symbol of the love and connection that binds us as a family, a reminder of the traditions and memories that we hold dear. I am grateful for the day that I stumbled upon the recipe in that old cookbook, for it has brought me closer to my family and enriched my life in ways that I never could have imagined. And for that, I am truly grateful.