Posted at: 07/10/2012 5:01 PM

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The Green Alternative

Looking for that perfect summer treat that tastes good and is good for you?  Well, look no farther than the produce aisle, where you’ll find a nutritious and delicious fruit that is wonderful for a variety of summer dishes.  Hy-Vee Registered Dietitian, Jen Haugen will enlighten your audience on California avocados and show some unique and tasty ways to enjoy them.
Get the Scoop on Avocado Health Benefits
Avocados provide an array of important nutrients that works to keep your metabolism and energy levels in full force.  Discover which nutrients can be found in an avocado and how they work to keep your body healthy.  
 
California Avocados
Did you know that California supplies 90% of the nation’s avocados?  Learn what else makes California avocados one-of-a-kind.

Spread It On
Whether they are mashed, sliced or diced, avocados can be a great addition to or substitute in some of your favorite foods. Jen will show viewers a delicious and healthy guacamole that is good for you and can be a great topping to your favorite burgers, hot dogs and deli sandwiches.  Jen will also show viewers a unique and delicious sandwich option that is made with a California avocado.  
 
Creamy Avocado and Egg Salad Sandwich
Serves 4
Prep time: 20 minutes

All you need:
4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and diced
½ avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
¼ cup Hy-Vee light mayonnaise
1 tbsp Hy-Vee mustard
¼ tsp paprika    
8 slices Hy-Vee 100% whole wheat bread
2 cups alfalfa sprouts, rinsed

All you do:
1. In a medium bowl, combine eggs, avocado, mayonnaise, mustard and paprika until well mixed.   If desired, refrigerate until well chilled.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread on a work surface and divide the egg salad among them.  
3. Top each with ½ cup of alfalfa and remaining bread slice.  

Nutrition Facts per serving: 280 calories, 13g fat, 2g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 185mg cholesterol, 460mg sodium, 31g carbohydrates, 6g fiber, 4g sugars, 13g protein.

Daily Values: 2% vitamin A, 6% vitamin C, 2% calcium, 2% iron.
Firecracker Guacamole
8 ripe, fresh California avocados, peeled, seeded and coarsely mashed
¼ cup minced green onions
2 ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
4 habanero chiles, stemmed, seeded and minced (or less, to taste)
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt, to taste

1. Gently combine all ingredients in a medium serving bowl.  
2. Let sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to blend.
Check out www.californiaavocado.com and www.hy-vee.com for more delicious recipes.
Jen Haugen represents Hy-Vee as a nutrition expert promoting healthy eating throughout the community.  Jen is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.