Guacamole

Some days the whole idea of cooking is too much, and what you actually need is the kind of thing you can make half asleep, with nothing to shop for first. 2 avocados, a clove of garlic, a squeeze of lime. Nothing here requires you to be at your best.

Avocado's potassium supports the fluid and muscle balance that inflammation can throw off, and its monounsaturated fat has a real evidence base behind it for cardiovascular support. Garlic produces allicin when it is crushed, a compound researchers link to antimicrobial and mild anti-inflammatory activity, and letting it sit crushed for a few minutes is what actually activates it.

Mash it however you like it, chunky or smooth, both are correct. It goes on everything, and one dependable thing in rotation does real work for you on a hard week.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of half a lime
• 1/4 tsp salt

Method

Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop the flesh into a bowl.

Using a fork, mash the avocado to your preferred texture - some people want it smooth, others prefer it with some chunks left in. Both are correct.

Add the crushed garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined.

Taste and adjust salt or lime as needed. Serve immediately. If making ahead, press a piece of cling wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before refrigerating to slow browning.

*Adapted from Lichen Paleo Loving AIP*