4 Tapas Recipes (Pintxos) using Fresh California Avocados

B.L.A.T. (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado and Tomato) Spears Instructions (Serves 1):

1. On each toothpick spear one mini lettuce wedge, one piece bacon, and one avocado cube.
2. Place a dab of mayonnaise on each grape tomato then add the tomatoes to the skewers.

Serving Suggestion: You can vary these skewers by using different types of bacon, including veggie, turkey or duck bacon, or try flavored sauces instead of the mayonnaise.

Beverage Pairing: Ice cold low-fat milk.

Veggie Antipasto Spears Instructions (Serves 1):

1. On each toothpick spear one half artichoke heart, one olive, one basil leaf, 1 tomato and one avocado cube.
2. Spritz lightly with olive oil spray if desired.

Serving Suggestion: It’s easy to vary these antipasto spears using roasted red pepper strips, pepperoncini, different olives, deli meats, cheeses or any combination of fruits and veggies. Just remember to include creamy Fresh California Avocado!

Beverage Pairing: For an afternoon snack pair with sparkling water. For an evening snack try with a small glass of sweet vermouth.

Ahi and Avocado Spears Instructions (Serves 1):

1. Use an apple corer to cut four cylindrical-shaped avocado pieces from the avocado wedge. Reserve extra avocado pieces for another use or simply enjoy.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on a small plate and top with ahi strips. Press fish firmly onto the seeds.
3. Spread the tops of the ahi strips with wasabi.
4. Wrap ahi around the avocado pieces, sesame seed-side out, and secure with toothpicks.
5. Drizzle low-sodium teriyaki or eel sauce on the serving plate and top with Ahi and Avocado Spears.

Serving Suggestion: May also use chunks of ahi topped with avocado cubes. Also try with salmon, surimi or shrimp.

Beverage Pairing: Iced or hot green tea.

Lox and Avocado Spears Instructions (Serves 1):

1. Cut lox into bite-size pieces; thread onto toothpicks.
2. Top cucumber slices with a dab of cream cheese; add to the toothpicks.
3. Finish each spear with a cube of avocado.

Serving Suggestion: Also delicious with capers or mini cornichon pickles.

Beverage Pairing: Iced or hot green tea.

Traditional Spanish Tortilla (Potato Omelet) and Avocado Spears Instructions (Serves 2):

Spear together tortilla cubes, pepper strips and avocado.

Individual Spanish Tortilla Instructions:

1. Use a non-stick mini or small skillet. If using a small skillet spray an egg-frying ring or individual pancake ring with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
3. Salt potatoes to taste and add to the skillet to warm. If using the ring push the potatoes and onions into the center of the skillet, put the ring around them and spread them evenly within the ring.
4. Whisk together the egg and egg white; pour over the potatoes and onions. Cook until the edges of the omelet are dry and most of the top looks set. Loosen the ring, if using, and remove. Flip the omelet and cook the other side until set, about 8 minutes total.

Serving Suggestion: These snacks can be served hot or cold. Olives and smoky pepper strips make great additions.

Beverage Pairing: Sparkling apple cider or sangria.