Editor’s Note: This story was originally Penny Horder.
You’ve probably trashed more than a few avocados after missing the (very narrow) window from fully ripe to brown, mushy, and shabby. Avocados are expensive, so that’s good money you’re throwing away.
However, here’s a little secret. As long as there’s bright green flesh somewhere inside (just scrape off the brown spots), an overripe avocado can still be very tasty.
I will never throw an avocado again just because it’s past the texture that makes the best guacamole.In my endless quest save money on groceries I discovered a few overripe avocado recipes to reduce food waste.
Check out these 10 recipes for what to do with overripe avocados.
Sauces, dressings, desserts, and even drinks to satisfy your overripe avocado needs.
sauce and dressing
The easiest way to spruce up your meal (and use up your avocado) is to make a simple sauce or dressing. 5 minutes in a food processor and voila!
1. 5 minute magic green sauce
this source Pinch of Yum blogger Lindsay Ostrom is made with all green foods, down to pistachios.
It’s a delicious velvety sauce that can be used as a vegetable dip, salad dressing, or marinade (think creamy chimichurri), or spread on sandwiches for a super fresh kick. Magic, I tell you
2. Creamy avocado and lime vinaigrette
I’ve known about yogurt-based avocado dressings, but they’ve always been a bit overpowering and nothing cuts the rich, yogurt-y, buttery taste.
this recipe Chef Emeril Lagasse is my favorite. It’s light and refreshing and has worked well with every salad I’ve had.
appetizers and snacks
Definitely the best kind of food.
3. Avocado Nut Bread
The same way you turn brown bananas into delicious bananas banana breadtry to make this avocado nut bread From foods with overripe avocados.
I love any version of veggie bread, but the added bonus here is that the bread turns green. ketchup, where are you?)
4. Avocado corn fritters
If you’re one of those people who’s caught in a sleazy love affair with avocado, try these dips. avocado and corn fritters Make an authentic avocado snack with Magic Green Sauce from Give Recipe.
Snack on Snack on Snack.
lunch and dinner
Even in the main dishes, diva avocado is the star.
5. Avocado egg salad
for This one From all the recipes, I’d like to leave the avocado an extra day or two past peak ripeness, as it will become softer and creamier. It’s perfect for us.
6. Avocado pasta
Pasta is such a heavy meal that it’s strictly comfort food in my eyes. This bright, light and refreshing dish Pasta is back in my regular dinner rotation thanks to Dum Delicious.
dessert
I know, I know… don’t mix healthy food with dessert. But hear me out. We promise there’s only good in these avocado dessert recipes.
7. Chocolate Caramel Avocado Brownie
do i even need to say something this recipe From Iron You?
chocolate? Yes, please. caramel? keep it going. A healthier twist on my favorite food group? I did it, I did it (Wait — brownies are a food group, right?)
8. Chocolate Avocado Pudding
A spoonful of chocolate is never a good idea, so caution is advised. this offering from all recipes.
Only 6 ingredients (5 if you have cinnamon) and it’s ready in 30 minutes.
drink
Avocado cocktail next!? Well, yes, actually.
9. Avocado Margarita
The thing is, I’ve never met a margarita that didn’t work out—for the night, anyway.but i think This light and creamy margarita From Bon Appetit, we try to set the bar (pun intended) quite high.
10. Smoothies
A smoothie may be the easiest way to mask the mushy brown avocado texture.
There’s no wrong way to make a smoothie, Avocado and Apple Spinach Smoothie Recipe from Real Simple has the added bonus of using up even the not-so-perfect apples. But in reality, avocados have a buttery, nutty flavor that makes them a great addition to almost any smoothie ingredient.
Bonus Round: Avocado Face Mask
If you still can’t eat past-ripe avocados, you can try a homemade avocado face mask.
and natural beauty tipsyou can find several different versions that require basic pantry ingredients, so you don’t have to make an extra trip to the store.
Think of it as the beginning of the rest of your avocado-filled life. No more throwing your grocery budget in the trash.