Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados: Recipe Adventures & Honest Review
Trader Joe’s has a knack for offering unique and sometimes quirky food items. Among these, the Teeny Tiny Avocados stand out. These miniature avocados have garnered a lot of attention, prompting both curiosity and questions about their usefulness. Are they just a novelty item, or do they offer a practical and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire? In this blog post, we’ll delve into a comprehensive review of Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados, explore their pros and cons, and provide you with creative and delicious recipes to make the most of these diminutive fruits.
What are Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados?
Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados are, as the name suggests, very small avocados. They are significantly smaller than the standard Hass avocados you typically find in grocery stores. Think of them as single-serving avocados, perfect for a light snack or a small addition to a meal. These avocados usually come in a bag of six and are sourced from Mexico. The size varies slightly, but generally, they are about half the size of a regular avocado.
Teeny Tiny Avocados: A Detailed Review
Let’s break down the key aspects of Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados:
Pros:
* **Perfect Portion Size:** This is arguably the biggest advantage. These avocados are ideal for single servings. No more cutting open a regular avocado and having half of it go brown in the fridge. Each avocado is just the right amount for avocado toast, a single serving of guacamole, or a small addition to a salad.
* **Reduced Food Waste:** Because of the portion size, you’re much less likely to waste any avocado. This is a significant benefit, especially considering how quickly avocados can ripen and spoil.
* **Good Quality:** In general, the quality of Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados is quite good. They tend to be creamy and flavorful, similar to larger Hass avocados. However, consistency can vary from bag to bag.
* **Convenient:** The small size makes them easy to store and grab for a quick snack or meal addition.
* **Novelty Factor:** Let’s be honest, there’s something fun about using tiny avocados. They add a whimsical touch to your meals.
Cons:
* **Price:** The price per avocado can be higher than buying regular-sized avocados, especially if you compare the amount of usable fruit. You are paying for the convenience of the portion size.
* **Ripeness Variability:** Getting a bag where all the avocados are perfectly ripe at the same time can be a challenge. Some might be too hard, while others might be overripe. Careful selection at the store is crucial.
* **Smaller Amount of Flesh:** Obviously, due to their size, you get less avocado flesh per fruit. If you’re making guacamole for a crowd, these are not the best option.
* **Pit Size:** Surprisingly, the pit size in these tiny avocados can sometimes be disproportionately large compared to the amount of flesh. This can be a bit frustrating.
* **Not Always Available:** Like many Trader Joe’s items, availability can be inconsistent. They might not always be in stock at your local store.
How to Pick the Perfect Teeny Tiny Avocados
Choosing the right Teeny Tiny Avocados is essential to ensure a good experience. Here are some tips:
* **Check for Firmness:** Gently squeeze the avocado. It should yield slightly to pressure but not feel mushy. Avoid avocados that are rock hard or feel very soft.
* **Examine the Color:** The skin color should be a dark green to almost black, depending on the variety. Avoid avocados with bright green skin, as they are likely underripe.
* **Inspect the Stem:** Gently remove the small stem or nub at the top of the avocado. If it’s green underneath, the avocado is likely ripe. If it’s brown or black, it’s probably overripe.
* **Look for Blemishes:** Avoid avocados with large bruises or blemishes on the skin.
* **Consider the Bag:** If possible, choose a bag where the avocados seem to be at a similar stage of ripeness.
Recipe Ideas: Making the Most of Your Teeny Tiny Avocados
Now, let’s get to the fun part: recipes! Here are several delicious and creative ways to use your Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados:
1. Teeny Tiny Avocado Toast with Everything Bagel Seasoning
This is a classic and simple way to enjoy these mini avocados. The single-serving size makes it perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 slice of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or multigrain work well)
* 1 Teeny Tiny Avocado
* Everything Bagel Seasoning (Trader Joe’s is a great option)
* Red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: a sprinkle of feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast the Bread:** Toast your bread to your desired level of crispness.
2. **Prepare the Avocado:** Cut the Teeny Tiny Avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh with a spoon and place it in a small bowl.
3. **Mash the Avocado:** Using a fork, mash the avocado until it reaches your desired consistency. You can leave it chunky or mash it until smooth.
4. **Season the Avocado:** Season the mashed avocado with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. **Assemble the Toast:** Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread.
6. **Sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning:** Generously sprinkle Everything Bagel Seasoning over the avocado toast.
7. **Add Optional Toppings:** If desired, add a sprinkle of feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
8. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your Teeny Tiny Avocado Toast right away.
2. Single-Serving Guacamole
Making guacamole for one is now easier than ever with these small avocados. This recipe is perfect for a solo snack or a quick appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Teeny Tiny Avocados
* 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
* 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro
* 1/2 tablespoon lime juice
* 1/4 teaspoon minced jalapeño (optional, for heat)
* Salt to taste
* Tortilla chips for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Avocados:** Cut the Teeny Tiny Avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop out the flesh with a spoon and place it in a small bowl.
2. **Mash the Avocados:** Using a fork, mash the avocados until they reach your desired consistency. You can leave it chunky or mash it until smooth.
3. **Add the Remaining Ingredients:** Add the chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using) to the mashed avocados.
4. **Season with Salt:** Season the guacamole with salt to taste.
5. **Mix Well:** Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the guacamole immediately with tortilla chips. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning if you’re not serving it right away.
3. Teeny Tiny Avocado and Shrimp Salad
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup cooked shrimp (small or medium size), peeled and deveined
* 2 Teeny Tiny Avocados, diced
* 1/4 cup diced cucumber
* 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
* 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: a pinch of chili flakes for added heat
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
3. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the dressing over the shrimp and avocado mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for later. This salad is delicious on its own or served over a bed of lettuce.
4. Teeny Tiny Avocado and Egg Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast bowl featuring Teeny Tiny Avocados.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
* 1 fried or poached egg
* 1 Teeny Tiny Avocado, sliced
* 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
* 2 tablespoons salsa
* Optional toppings: hot sauce, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble the Bowl:** In a bowl, place the cooked quinoa or brown rice as the base.
2. **Add the Egg:** Top the grains with the fried or poached egg.
3. **Add the Avocado:** Arrange the sliced Teeny Tiny Avocado around the egg.
4. **Add the Black Beans and Salsa:** Add the black beans and salsa to the bowl.
5. **Add Optional Toppings:** If desired, add hot sauce, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your breakfast bowl right away.
5. Teeny Tiny Avocado and Smoked Salmon Bites
These elegant bites are perfect for a party appetizer or a light snack. The combination of creamy avocado and smoky salmon is irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 slices of baguette, toasted
* 2 Teeny Tiny Avocados, mashed
* 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon chopped dill
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Avocado:** In a small bowl, mash the Teeny Tiny Avocados with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. **Assemble the Bites:** Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each toasted baguette slice.
3. **Top with Smoked Salmon:** Top the avocado with a slice of smoked salmon.
4. **Garnish with Dill:** Sprinkle chopped dill over the smoked salmon.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the Teeny Tiny Avocado and Smoked Salmon Bites immediately.
6. Simple Teeny Tiny Avocado Salad Dressing
Turn your tiny avocados into a vibrant and healthy salad dressing!
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Teeny Tiny Avocados
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lime juice (or lemon juice)
* 1 tablespoon water (or more, to reach desired consistency)
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or parsley
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, olive oil, lime juice, water, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend until the dressing is completely smooth and creamy. Add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more lime juice for tanginess or salt for flavor.
4. **Store:** Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken slightly as it sits, so you may need to add a little more water before using.
5. **Use:** Drizzle the dressing over your favorite salads. It pairs well with green salads, taco salads, and even as a dip for vegetables.
7. Stuffed Mini Sweet Peppers with Teeny Tiny Avocado Cream
These colorful and flavorful peppers are a delicious and visually appealing appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 mini sweet peppers (various colors)
* 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
* 2 Teeny Tiny Avocados, mashed
* 1/4 cup cooked quinoa or rice
* 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
* 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Peppers:** Cut the mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. **Make the Avocado Cream:** In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mashed avocados, cooked quinoa or rice, red onion, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. **Stuff the Peppers:** Spoon the avocado cream mixture into the pepper halves, filling them generously.
4. **Arrange and Serve:** Arrange the stuffed mini sweet peppers on a platter and serve immediately. You can also chill them for a few hours before serving.
8. Teeny Tiny Avocado & Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps
A healthier twist on the classic tuna salad, using avocado for creaminess instead of mayonnaise.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
* 2 Teeny Tiny Avocados, mashed
* 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
* 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lettuce leaves (butter lettuce or romaine), for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Tuna Mixture:** In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mashed avocados, celery, red onion, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. **Season:** Season the tuna mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble the Wraps:** Spoon the tuna salad into the lettuce leaves.
4. **Serve:** Serve the lettuce wraps immediately.
9. Add a Slice to Sandwiches or Burgers
These little avocados are perfectly sized to add a slice or two to your sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. Adds creamy texture and healthy fats.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite sandwich, burger, or wrap
* 1 Teeny Tiny Avocado, sliced
**Instructions:**
1. **Slice the Avocado:** Cut the avocado lengthwise, remove the pit, and gently peel back the skin. Slice the avocado into thin slices.
2. **Add to your Meal:** Place the avocado slices on your sandwich, burger, or wrap.
3. **Enjoy:** Enjoy your enhanced meal!
10. Frozen Avocado Smoothie Booster
Don’t let overripe avocados go to waste! Freeze them for use in smoothies.
**Ingredients:**
* Any Smoothie recipe of your choice
* 1-2 Teeny Tiny Avocados, frozen
**Instructions:**
1. **Freeze Avocados**: If you have avocados nearing the end of their life or that ripen all at once, mash them up, and portion them out into a bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Lay flat in the freezer.
2. **Add to Smoothie**: Add the frozen avocado when blending your smoothie.
3. **Blend and Enjoy**: Blend until smooth and enjoy the added creaminess and nutrients.
Final Verdict: Are Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados Worth It?
Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados offer a convenient and portion-controlled way to enjoy this beloved fruit. While they might be slightly more expensive per avocado than their larger counterparts, the reduced food waste and perfect single-serving size make them a worthwhile purchase for many. The key is to select them carefully at the store and have a variety of recipes in mind to make the most of their unique size.
If you are someone who frequently wastes half an avocado or enjoys single-serving portions, then these tiny avocados are definitely worth a try. They are a fun and practical addition to your grocery list.
So, next time you’re at Trader Joe’s, grab a bag of Teeny Tiny Avocados and embark on a culinary adventure! You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy this healthy and delicious fruit.