Scrumptious Baba Guac

Mediterranean food is pretty much the best. I drizzle olive oil on plenty of dishes, and the veggies... mmm! Don't get me started on feta cheese, salmon, or nuts! I especially adore baba ganoush. Primarily composed of eggplant and olive oil, baba ganoush is a Levantine dip with this incredible, smoky, charred flavor. It is seasoned with lemon juice, tahini, and sea salt. You can make it at home, or buy it at the store. Because I'm one busy girl, I tend to do the latter, choosing Falafel King Fire Roasted Eggplant Baba Ganoush. Not only is it low in carbohydrates, but it is made of real, wholesome ingredients.
On the other end of the spectrum, there is Mexican food. I love the culture behind Latino and Mexican dishes, but to be honest, they have never been my favorite types of cuisine. Especially now that I don't eat tortillas or masa, I don't hanker for these types of cookery.
However, there are ALWAYS exceptions; I enjoy fajitas every now and then, eating the grilled meats and sizzling peppers and onions a la carte. They are great! While fajitas are tasty, they just don't match up to guacamole. What does? It is so deliciously creamy, with a tang of salsa and a squeeze lime juice. I can't eat the chips that typically accompany this fabulous dip, so I came up with the best solution of all time: eat it by the spoonful! This way, I don't fill up on fried tortillas and get more guac. What a deal, don't you think?

Avocados are really good for you, too. According to the article "12 Proven Health Benefits of Avocado," they have a TON of potassium, and are loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids. Can you hear your heart thanking you? Avocados also have lots of fiber, and can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. So along with amazing flavor, you get a boost of nutrients. You taste buds are happy, and your body is happy. Count me in!

Now, where do Mediterranean food and Mexican food meet? In my recipe for Scrumptious Baba Guac, of course! Made of two simple ingredients, baba guac is super easy to whip up and is a delectable snack, appetizer, or side dish. Feel free to add any optional twists to your baba guac - I can't wait to try it with a squeeze of lemon juice, some chopped tomatoes, or a sprinkle of diced onions. Let me know what combinations have worked for you in the comments below!

Scrumptious Baba Guac for 1
Ingredients:

  • 1/2 large, ripe avocado
  • about 2 Tbsps of baba ganoush (I recommend Falafel King)
  • Optional: diced onions, a dash of paprika, sea salt, ground pepper, sliced tomatoes, lemon juice, kalamata olives, a drizzle of olive oil, pickled jalapeƱos, etc

Execution:
Scoop your 1/2 avocado into a small bowl. Using a fork or a potato-masher, smash your avocado until it is the consistency of guacamole. If you prefer you guacamole chunkier, mash it less. For a creamier dip, do the opposite. When your avocado is thoroughly squashed, add your 2 Tbsps or so of baba ganoush. It is really smooth all ready, so from here, simply mix it in to your avocado mash. Top with any additional flavorings, as suggested above. Eat either by the spoonful, with slices of vegetables like bell pepper, or with cheese crackers, if you tolerate dairy. I suggest Whisps, which are made out of one ingredient: cheese! Enjoy your baba guac, a fabulous fusion snack!

Bon Appetit!
-Maya

Photo by Abigail Lynn on UnsplashPhoto by Roberta Sorge on Unsplash

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