Overview
As Kiwis, loving avocado is basically in our blood. And for a good reason — besides being ridiculously delicious, avocados are good for you. Brimming with vitamins, nutrients, healthy fats and fibre, this humble green fruit (yes, avocado is a fruit) sure packs a punch.
We already know avo is the staple ingredient of any Saturday brunch worth eating. But here's the plot twist — there are more ways to devour it than just smashed on sourdough. So, we've teamed up with Nando's to discover five alternative ways to get your avo fix in Auckland.
INARI BOAT AT &SUSHI
Grab-and-go bar &Sushi sets the standard for sushi in Auckland, offering punters a creative choice of bite-sized delights. You'll find nigiri decked out with local seafood and maki stuffed with colourful veggies (plus donburi, udon and yakisoba, if you're after something a little more filling). Our top pick is the inari boat, a seasoned, deep-fried tofu pocket packed with rice, fresh salmon, avocado and a dollop of mayo. It's a feast for the soul and the eyes.
MARGARITA DE VERDE AT AZABU
You've guac to be kidding us, avocado cocktails actually exist? Mission Bay newcomer Azabu makes an impression with its creative cocktail list. Our pick goes to the Margarita De Verde — a tequila tipple accented with avocado, jalapeño, lime and agave. Avocado, brought to life with a kick of salt and citrus, gives this cocktail a creamy texture. Pull up a chair overlooking the ocean, order some Japanese-inspired bites and consider your next Sunday session sorted.
CHICKEN BLAT BURGER AT NANDO'S
What's better than avocado? Avocado and bacon. Sandwich these two ingredients between a bun and you've got yourself one of the best burger combinations of all time. And it's now super easy to get your fix, thanks to the new Nando's Chicken BLAT Burger. It features grilled PERi-PERi chicken, bacon, fresh avocado, lettuce, tomato, aioli and chutney, all wrapped up in your choice of bun, pita or wrap. Add a side of broccolini for something different.
TAGLIATELLE CON AVOCADO AT PASTA & CUORE
We'll happily enjoy avocado at any time of year but things really kick into overdrive during the main harvest season (August to February). That's when you should make tracks to Mount Eden's Pasta & Cuore for one of the best seasonal dishes in town. Tagliatelle con Avocado is one of the more surprising dishes on this cosy pasta bar's menu. Here, the fresh handmade pasta is served with a magical combo of avocado, red onion, extra virgin olive oil and grated parmigiano reggiano. Our top tip? Opt for an extra sprinkling of cheese, order a glass of organic Italian wine and let the good times roll.
AVOCADO SKINCARE BY THE AVO TREE
Avocado is not only good for your gut — cold-pressed extra virgin avocado oil is also said to be a superfood for your skin. So we're excited to discover The Avo Tree has recently launched a line of luxury skincare designed to give you that coveted dewy glow. Show your skin some TLC with a brightness-boosting avocado, blackcurrant and pear face oil, then follow it up with a restorative avocado and carrot seed night cream. Throw on a fluffy robe, hit play on Love Island and consider your at-home pamper session covered.
Nando's Chicken BLAT Burger is available at all Nando's stores excluding Otahuhu, Riccarton and New Lynn. Order now via the Nando's website.