What Is Avocado Oil?
Upon first glance, you’ll notice avocado oil is thick and has a dark green hue (similar to most oils on the market) and there’s no trace of the bright fruit when it’s freshly cut. According to the California Avocado Commission, avocados get a good washing before they are de-pitted and de-skinned. The avocado pulp is mashed and pressed into a “beautiful vat of green ‘guac.’” In the commercial process, that “guac” goes through a drum that spins at high speeds, which forces the oil and water out of the pulp to be separated for bottling.
Avocado Oil Health Benefits
Avocados are enjoyed in many health diets such as Keto due to the low amount of polyunsaturated fat (the bad-for-you kind) and a good source of monounsaturated fat (healthy or good-for-you fat). The same health benefits apply to just the oil as well. Avocado oil provides a good source of B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, folate, potassium, and fiber. There are also antioxidants present that can help boost your immune system as well as work as an anti-inflammatory for your bones and joints. Avocado oil is also known to have some benefits when applied topically to your hair and skin to improve scalp health, relieve the effects of eczema, and more.
Where to Buy Avocado Oil
How to Use Avocado Oil
Because avocados are fairly neutral in flavor anyway, you can expect the oil also won’t have a distinct flavor. This makes it the perfect oil substitute for any of your favorite sweet or savory recipes calling for cooking oils. Swap avocado oil for olive or canola oil in your favorite salad dressings, poke cakes, or to coat your roasted veggies. Avocado oil also has a high smoke point (500ºF vs. olive oil’s 410ºF), so it would be an excellent option for your meat marinades the next time you plan a cookout.
