Looking for a show-stopping, Instagram-worthy snack that's both delicious and nutritious? Get ready to transform ordinary bell peppers into adorable shamrock-shaped bites paired with a creamy, zesty avocado dip that will steal the spotlight at any St. Patrick's Day gathering! This recipe is not just a feast for your palate, but a fun, creative way to celebrate the luck of the Irish while keeping things healthy and fresh.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 green bell peppers
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Chips or veggies for dipping
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 green bell peppers, 1 ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, salt to taste, and your choice of chips or veggies for dipping.
- Wash the green bell peppers thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Once cleaned, slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and white membranes inside. This will create a hollow space for the shamrock shape.
- To form the shamrock shape, cut each bell pepper into three heart-shaped pieces. Start by cutting the bell pepper in half lengthwise, and then carve out two heart shapes from each half. You can do this by cutting a "V" shape at the top of each piece to create the lobes of the heart.
- Arrange the three heart-shaped pieces together to form a shamrock shape, and use a small piece of the remaining bell pepper to create the stem. Secure the pieces together if necessary.
- Next, prepare the avocado dip. Cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice to the avocado in the bowl. This will not only add flavor but also help prevent the avocado from browning.
- Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the avocado until it reaches your desired level of creaminess. You can leave it a bit chunky or make it smooth, depending on your preference.
- Add salt to taste, mixing it into the avocado dip until well combined. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the avocado dip to a serving bowl and place it alongside your bell pepper shamrocks.
- Serve the healthy St. Patrick's Day snack with chips or fresh veggies for dipping. Enjoy your festive, nutritious treat!
Tips
- Choose firm, vibrant green bell peppers for the best shamrock shape and crunch
- Use a ripe but still slightly firm avocado to ensure the perfect dip consistency
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the avocado dip for extra flavor
- Cut the bell pepper hearts on a stable cutting board with a sharp knife for clean edges
- If preparing in advance, squeeze extra lime juice into the avocado dip to prevent browning
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste and most appealing presentation
- Experiment with different dipping options like whole grain crackers or cucumber slices
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
