
Avocados have experienced a surge in popularity in the US in recent years, both because of a new appreciation for their health benefits and an expanded interest in authentic Mexican cooking. Avocados were first cultivated in what is now Mexico and their use in Mexican cuisine, especially guacamole, remains most Americans primary association with the fruit. But across the globe, avocado is used in a wide variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Its mild flavor allows it to blend well with everything from chocolate to hot sauce, while its rich, creamy texture lends dishes a decadent feel, even when theyre actually quite healthy. So get into your kitchen and start experimenting! Here are ten recipes that use avocados in unexpected ways to serve as a jumping off point.

Chocolate Frosty
This vegan chocolate frosty beautifully blends avocados and chocolate for a rich, creamy, and 100 percent vegan treat.
Make chocolate avocado frosty
Image: Kathy Patalsky
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Pasta with Avocado and Pancetta
Avocado makes an unexpected appearance in this simple but tasty pasta recipe.
Make pasta with avocado and pancetta
Image: Stacie Billis
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Mint-Lime Fruit Salad
Brightly flavored green fruits get a boost from fresh lime, and a little added creaminess from yummy avocados.
Make mint-lime spring salad
Image: Kathy Patalsky
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Chocolate Avocado Cupcakes
These cupcakes are infused with avocado, which lends moist richness (and interesting flavor) to both the frosting and the cake!
Make chocolate avocado cupcakes
Image: Julie Van Rosendaal
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BerryCado Smoothie
Wondering what makes these vibrant purple smoothies so creamy and delicious? You guessed it -- Omega-3 and anti-oxidant-rich avocados!
Make a berrycado smoothie
Image: Kathy Patalsky
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Avocado Pineapple Breakfast Smoothie
Why not have avocados for breakfast? This tasty smoothie combines pineapple, a potent source of vitamin C, and vitamin absorption-boosting avocado.
Make avocado pineapple breakfast smoothie
Image: Paula Jones
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Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Creamy avocados make for a flavorful and rich salad dressing -- just the thing to top a hearty late summer salad.
Make salad with creamy avocado dressing
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Mango and Avocado Salad
This colorful salad brings together the best of tropical flavors in a gorgeous and satisfying salad.
Make mango and avocado salad
/family-kitchen/2012/08/14/not-guac-10-surprising-ways-to-eat-an-avocado/mango-and-avocado-salad

Avocado Toast
My favorite after school snack has notes of tangy lemon, fragrant cumin, and a little spice from fresh pepper.
Make avocado toast
/family-kitchen/2012/08/14/not-guac-10-surprising-ways-to-eat-an-avocado/avocado-toast

Avocado, Lime and Roast Garlic Aioli
Give your sandwiches a flavor makeover with this tangy, smoky avocado aioli.
Make avocado, lime, and roast garlic aioli
/family-kitchen/2012/08/14/not-guac-10-surprising-ways-to-eat-an-avocado/avocado-lime-and-roast-garlic-aioli
Image: Kathy Patalsky
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