The avocado has reigned supreme in our kitchens (and cafés) for years, and for good reason. Its creamy texture and healthy fats make it a versatile delight. Not just in the menu, but think about the conversations this little superfood has spurred! On the dinner table, at work cafeterias, just about any ‘eating’ place you can imagine. We’ve all come together to celebrate the Avo! Whether it’s innovative Avo toast recipes your friend is trying, with creamy, runny eggs (a must-try!) or a general debate about its price. And so, it’s only fitting that we celebrate the International Avocado Day with a bit of fanfare! 

And let's be honest—our beloved avocado has been somewhat typecast, we have, either willingly or unwillingly mostly confined it to the world of ‘guac’ and toast. While we'll always love those classics, the incredible ‘Avo’ has so much more to offer.

Here are four simple, creative, and tested recipes that will make you see your favourite avocado in a whole new light.

The 5-minute creamy avocado pasta sauce

This vibrant, no-cook pasta sauce comes together in the time it takes to boil your spaghetti. A smooth and rich sauce that's packed with nutrients and fresh flavour.

What you'll need:

• 1 large ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1/2 cup fresh basil or coriander leaves
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A splash of the pasta's cooking water

How to make it:

• Combine the avocado, fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor.
• Blend until smooth. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce is creamy.
• Just before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/4 cup of the starchy cooking water.
• Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, and pour over the avocado sauce. Add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta perfectly. Toss well, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

The deceptively decadent chocolate avocado mousse

This one's a showstopper. Using avocado as a base for a chocolate mousse? Yes, that's what we're talking about! An unbelievably smooth, rich, and dairy-free dessert that will stun you.

What you'll need:

• 2 large ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup honey (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
• 1/4 cup Godrej Jersey Full Cream Milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

How to make it:

• Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender or food processor.
• Blend on high for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and no green specks remain.
• Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
• Spoon the mousse into small bowls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour to chill and set. Serve with fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Smoky grilled avocado boats

Grilling avocados is a game-changer. When grilled, they get a delicious, smoky char. ‘Boats’ for a variety of flavourful fillings, making for a great appetiser or light lunch.

What you'll need:

• 2 ripe but firm avocados
• Olive oil
• Lime juice
• Salt, pepper, and chili flakes
• Filling Idea: A simple corn salsa (cooked corn, chopped red onion, coriander, and lime juice) and crumbled feta cheese.

How to make it:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high.
• Cut the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pits.
• Brush the cut sides generously with olive oil and a squeeze of lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
• Place the avocados cut-side down directly on the grill. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until you have distinct grill marks and the avocado has softened slightly.
• Remove from the grill and fill the hollowed-out centre with your corn salsa and top with crumbled feta. Serve warm.

Irresistibly crispy baked avocado fries

Move over, potatoes! These avocado fries are baked, not fried, giving you a wonderfully crispy panko crust on the outside and a warm, creamy interior.

What you'll need:

• 2 ripe but firm avocados
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A dipping sauce of your choice (a chipotle or herbed yogurt works well)

How to make it:

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
• Slice each avocado half into thick, fry-like wedges.
• Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Dredge each avocado slice first in the flour, then dip it completely in the egg, and finally, press it firmly into the mixture to coat all sides.
• Arrange the coated fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce.

On International Avocado Day, which of these delicious recipes will you try? Let us know in the comments!