California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate

California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate Recipe - A Taste of USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the bold flavors of chili and tomatoes. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional chili recipes, incorporating the creamy texture and rich flavor of California avocados. Avocados have long been a staple in California cuisine, and this recipe showcases their versatility in a unique and delicious way.

Ingredients

2 ripe california avocados, halved and peeled
3 tomatoes, chopped
lemon juice
4 oz (113 g) grated american cheese
15 oz (425 g) can chili with beans

How to prepare

Sprinkle lemon juice on avocados to retain their color.
Heat the chili thoroughly and add the tomatoes.
Spoon the mixture into the avocados and top each with grated cheese.
Place them under the broiler briefly until the cheese melts.
Serve with enriched and skim milk.

Variations

For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapenos or hot sauce to the chili mixture.
Try adding some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sprinkle lemon juice on the avocados to prevent them from browning.

- Heating the chili thoroughly before adding the tomatoes ensures that all the flavors meld together perfectly.

- Melting the cheese on top of the avocados under the broiler adds a deliciously gooey and savory element to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served with a side of enriched and skim milk for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to heat the chili thoroughly before adding the tomatoes to ensure that all the flavors meld together perfectly.

- Melting the cheese on top of the avocados under the broiler adds a deliciously gooey and savory element to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have American cheese, you can use cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese instead.

- Feel free to customize the chili with beans by using your favorite brand or adding extra spices for more flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the avocado and chili mixture ahead of time and assemble and bake just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate on a bed of lettuce or with a side of tortilla chips for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, with the chili and beans providing a healthy dose of fiber and complex carbohydrates.

Fats

The California avocados in this dish are a great source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

The chili with beans in this dish provides a good amount of protein, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

California avocados are rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin K, and folate. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of grated cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a well-rounded and nutritious meal option, providing a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate is a delicious and nutritious meal option that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the bold flavors of chili and tomatoes. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for the California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Los Angeles. Maria was always experimenting with new and exciting recipes, and that day she had something special planned for lunch.

As I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most wonderful aroma of fresh avocados and spicy chili peppers. Maria was busy chopping up vegetables and mixing together a colorful array of ingredients. Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she excitedly told me about her latest creation - the California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate.

Maria explained that she had discovered the recipe from a nutritionist friend who was promoting the health benefits of avocados and chili peppers. The dish was a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, perfect for a light and nutritious meal. I was intrigued by the sound of it and eagerly offered to help her prepare the dish.

We started by grilling some chicken breasts seasoned with a mix of chili powder, cumin, and garlic. The sizzling sound of the meat on the grill filled the kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma. While the chicken cooked, Maria showed me how to prepare the avocado salsa.

We diced ripe avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapenos, mixing them together with a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick. The vibrant colors of the salsa were a feast for the eyes, and the fresh flavors blended beautifully together.

Next, we roasted some corn on the cob and sliced them off the cob to add a sweet and crunchy element to the dish. Maria also whipped up a quick black bean salad with red onions, bell peppers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

Once everything was ready, we assembled the California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate. We started with a bed of mixed greens, then topped it with slices of grilled chicken, spoonfuls of avocado salsa, roasted corn, and black bean salad. A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side added a creamy contrast to the spicy flavors.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't believe how delicious and satisfying the dish was. The creamy avocado, spicy chili peppers, and smoky grilled chicken created a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The fresh vegetables and protein-packed ingredients made me feel energized and nourished.

After lunch, Maria shared the recipe with me, and I knew I had to recreate it at home for my family. Over the years, I have made the California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate countless times, each time adding my own twist to the dish. Sometimes I swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu, or I add in extra veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.

No matter how I prepare it, the recipe always brings back fond memories of that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen. It has become a staple in my recipe collection, and I love sharing it with friends and family who appreciate a healthy and flavorful meal.

As I sit in my own kitchen now, chopping up avocados and chili peppers, I can't help but smile as I remember how I learned to make the California Avocado-Chili Nutrition Plate. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, and I hope it will continue to bring joy and nourishment to those who taste it for years to come.