We’re as happy as Suzelle’s best friend Marianne that it’s avo season in SA. These green globes were named ‘fruit of the gods’ by central-American Indians who worshipped the avo’s ability to increase vitality and general wellbeing. Centuries later we’re still worshipping them, whether they’re whipped up into a tangy guacamole, mashed onto hot toast, or sliced on top of a pizza or salad.

Avos aren’t just good for getting hearts on Instagram, they’ve been proved to be healthy for your heart too. A study conducted in 2003 at the University of the North West showed that avos can be incorporated into effective weight-loss plans because they’re made up made up of ‘good’ monounsaturated fat and make you feel fuller for longer. Controlled trials conducted by Pennsylvania State University found that including avos in a moderate fat diet resulted in a reduction of cholesterol levels in overweight people.

In praise of this fruit, get inspired with some recipes that prove just how versatile avos are.

Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives

This one-pan dish, calling for Mediterranean flavours of olives, tomatoes, rocket and feta, is perfect for long brunches or a light supper on a weeknight.

Avocado and prawns in wasabi dressing

Do not be tempted to add any more wasabi to this simple but flavoursome recipe – it’s hot, very hot!

Avocado corn soup with red and yellow peppers

This complex soup has cayenne pepper for heat and fresh peppers and avo to cool it all down again. Delicious!

Pasta with avocado and salmon

Make dinner a breeze with this easy recipe calling for ribbons of smoked salmon, cream or crème fraîche and a squeeze of lemon. Simply mix it all together and enjoy.

Asian noodles with pork fillet and avocado

Packed with Asian flavours of ginger, garlic, nuts and coriander, this fragrant dish will please any avo lover.

Avocado cheesecake

Avo is so versatile – you can even bake with it! Taste for yourself in this great recipe for a fridge cheesecake topped with fresh fruit.

Avocado, feta and baby spinach on ciabatta bread

All the best flavours combine in this tasty toast topping.

Guacamole

Dating back to ancient Aztec times, guacamole is possibly the easiest, most versatile and delicious avocado snack one can prepare.

For more, download your free avocado recipe book courtesy of the South African Avocado Growers’ Association here. And for all things avo, like the association’s page on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter @iloveavos or Pinterest @Iloveavos.