I don't know about you, but warm-weather appetizers are nothing without guacamole--and even better when it's healthified!  Try our Healthified Garlic Guacamole--a yummy version of a favorite dip gone healthy.  Traditional guacamole and the chips that accompany it are often loaded with fat.  And it's why some people choose to place guacamole on their "do not eat" lists. 

But did you know that avocado, the key ingredient in guacamole, is a rich source of healthy monounsaturated fat--plant fat that's actually good for your heart? Avocados can help us meet our dietary goal of reducing saturated fat in the diet, when they are consumed in place of saturated-fat containing foods. Naturally cholesterol-free, avocados contain small amounts of nutrients including folate, fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and E too. Learn more about saturated and unsaturated fats on EatBetterAmerica.

Guacamole makes a super dip for fresh veggies, whole wheat pita triangles and low-fat crackers.  Skip the chips and use this tasty dip as a topper to give baked fish or sauteed chicken breasts some WOW appeal.  Serve it aside a tossed salad with tomatoes, black beans and corn for a light lunch.

Read the Recipe Tip: While working to healthfying the consumer version of this dip--we stumbled upon a great option that takes guac, one healthy step further--by adding peas.  If you don't serve these dips side by side, your guests will never know your secret!  Give it a whirl for picnics, parties and celebrations as you enter the season of casual healthified dining al fresco!!  Enjoy!