Avocados
A member of the Laurel family, the avocado is high in protein and high in fat. It also contains a fair amount of fiber and Vitamin C. Though there are many different varieties, the most common variety is the Hass avocado which has a rich, creamy texture.
Some of the types
Hass avocados are the most popular, accounting for 80% of all avocados eaten worldwide. This variety is the only type of avocado available year round. Also aiding in the popularity of this variety is its long shelf life.
Fuerte avocados, or Florida avocados retain their green outer skin even when ripe, unlike the Hass which turns black when ripe. The Fuerte is available from the late fall to early spring and has a decent shelf life. It isn't quite as creamy as the Hass.
Reed avocados, or summer avocados, are rounded in shape with a creamy taste. It is substantially larger than other varieties and always stays firmer than other varieties. As a result, this variety is much better when used fresh in salad.
Trivia
All Hass avocados are related to a single Hass tree that was first patented in 1935 by postman Richard Hass. Richard Hass died the same year the patent expired; the Hass tree died in 2002 at the age of 76 finally succumbing to root rot.
