You can’t spell avocado without California—it’s right in the name, “AvoCAdos”! Whether enjoyed in salads, on toast, in baking or as a substitute for other fats in cooking, California avocados are something to be celebrated and enjoyed… often. Make the most of these fantastic fruits with part 2 of our Foodie FAQs series starring these Golden State goodies.

What makes California-grown avocados so special? For one, avocados are a true California native. Every Hass Avocado in the world can trace its lineage to the Hass Mother Tree that grew in La Habra Heights, California. Her offspring account for 95% of the avocados grown in California, and the fruit of her labor resulted in one of the state’s most important industries.

What is the best way to cut an avocado? The easiest and safest way to remove the avocado seed is to quarter the avocado. With the avocado flat on the cutting board, carefully cut it in half length-wise around the seed. Then rotate the avocado ¼ turn and cut length-wise around the seed, creating four equal segments. By separating the quarters, the seed can be removed seamlessly with your fingertips. Watch how! 

Why “peel” the avocado? Try to always peel your avocados versus scooping out the flesh. Peeling an avocado ensures you don’t miss out on the nutritional benefits of this super food. In California Avocados, the greatest concentration of beneficial carotenoids is in the dark green fruit of the avocado closest to the peel.

Does size matter? The size of an avocado does not indicate the fruit quality or stage of ripeness. An avocado’s seed actually grows with the fruit, so the seed-to-fruit ratio will always be close to the same.

What is a surprising way to use avocados? Health-conscious bakers can substitute avocado for many traditional baking ingredients, such as butter or shortening. Simply replace these ingredients with an equal amount of avocado (e.g., replace one cup of butter with one cup of mashed avocado) in any muffin, quick bread and even some brownie and cookie recipes.

What growing practices are used to better utilize as well as preserve natural resources? Sustainability is important to California growers and Nugget Markets. California avocado growers are updating growing practices each year with the use of solar power, drip irrigation for less water use and new nursery trees for better planting.

When can I buy California Avocados? Right now! The California avocado season is spring through summer. Fun Fact: It takes 14-18 months to grow a single avocado, which means for a few months, avocado trees have two crop years on them!

For more fun facts and pro tips, check out Part 1 of our Avocado Foodie FAQs. For additional information about California Avocados, visit CaliforniaAvocado.com.