Avocados are often mistaken for vegetables due to their taste and appearance, but they are actually fruits. Unlike apples and strawberries, avocados are rich in healthy fats and have minimal carbohydrates, making them ideal for keto and low-carb diets.
To maximize their shelf life, freezing avocados is a great strategy. This ensures you always have a supply on hand and reduces waste. However, avocados have one common issue: they turn brown quickly. This is due to the oxidation process when exposed to air.
Why Do Avocados Turn Brown?
Once exposed to oxygen, the phenolic compounds in avocados start to break down, resulting in browning—similar to what happens to apples. While this color change doesn’t impact safety, it can affect flavor and appearance. To slow down this process, applying lemon or lime juice to the surface can be beneficial.
Tips for Freezing Avocados
Before freezing avocados, decide if you want to store them whole or in pieces:
- Whole or Halves: Peel the skin, remove the pit, and brush the avocado with lemon juice to prevent browning. Place the halves on a plate to flash freeze for an hour before transferring them to an airtight freezer bag. Ensure all air is removed to prevent oxidation. Avocados can stay fresh for up to two years when frozen properly.
- Cubes for Guacamole: For guacamole prep, cube the avocado and flash freeze before bagging. This method might result in a mushy texture but is perfect for making dips or spreads.
Related post: Freezing Lemons: A Simple Trick for Fighting Inflammation and Boosting Immunity
Nutritional Benefits of Avocados
Avocados are nutrient-dense and versatile, with several health benefits:
- High in Nutrients: They provide over 20 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, B5, B6, and E, folate, potassium, iron, magnesium, and more. A 3.5-ounce serving contains 160 calories, 15 grams of healthy fats, and 7 grams of fiber.
- More Potassium Than Bananas: Avocados contain higher potassium levels than bananas, supporting healthy blood pressure and heart function.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Rich in monounsaturated fats, avocados contain oleic acid, which reduces inflammation and supports heart health.
- High Fiber Content: Avocados promote regular digestion and can help with constipation due to their high fiber content.
- Lower Cholesterol: Regular consumption can reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, promoting heart health.
- Powerful Antioxidants: The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin in avocados support eye health and reduce age-related vision problems.
