Stuffed Avocado (Tex-Mex Style) Recipe

"Guacamole is good stuff, but it can get over-used & boring. When that happens or if you just want a change of pace, try using this tasty & so-easy-to-fix version of a stuffed avocado w/your next Tex-Mex meal for an aesthetic presentation & crowd-pleasing alternative to guacamole. The stuffing mixture can be made a day ahead, but the avocado prep & assembly should be done just prior to serving. (See notes in prep section for more ideas on how to use this recipe) Enjoy!"

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Combine stuffing mixture ingredients & gently mix for even distribution. If the mixture is too thick to suit you, add small amounts of the liquid drained from the picante sauce until the mixture is smooth (remember the cream cheese will thicken again when refrigerated). Cover & refrigerate at least 2 hours or until you are ready to assemble the stuffed avocados.

Step 2

Halve avocados, twist halves to separate & remove stone. To prevent discoloration, brush exposed cut surfaces & the center w/lime juice using a pastry brush. Sprinkle lightly w/seasoning salt. Divide the stuffing mix evenly among the 4 halves & serve immediately.

Step 3

NOTES:

Step 4

#1 - May also serve as a salad on a bed of lettuce w/avocado wedges on the side. Use only half of the cilantro in the stuffing mix & reserve the remainder to garnish the salad.

Step 5

#2 - If you expect miss the flavor & crunch of nacho chips that normally accompany guacamole, grab a handful, crumble them in a sandwich bag & sprinkle over the stuffed avocado halves or the salad version.

Step 6

#3 - Baby shrimp make a excellent opt add to the stuffing mix & turn this into a company-worthy effort. I like to sprinkle a bit of Old Bay seasoning over this option.