The Avocado Pit Stop hero image

The Avocado Pit Stop

Halved Avocados Stuffed with Warm Caramelized Red Onion, Cheese, and Toasted Walnuts

35 minutes
Serves 4
DinnerMediterraneanGluten-freeShellfish-freeSoy-free
Herb's take

This Mediterranean-inspired starter takes the humble avocado to new heights by stuffing it with sweet-tangy caramelized red onion, creamy cheese, and crunchy walnuts. You'll master the gentle art of onion caramelization and learn why contrast, temperature, texture, and taste, makes a dish memorable.

Ingredients

Yield
4

Instructions

  1. 01
    Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced red onion and kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and begins to turn golden, about 10 minutes.
  2. 02
    Sprinkle in the brown sugar and continue to cook, stirring often, until onions are deeply caramelized and sweet, 10 to 15 minutes more.
  3. 03
    Pour in the balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until nearly evaporated and the onions are glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. 04
    While the onions cook, toast the walnuts in a small dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and just golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  5. 05
    Slice a thin layer off the bottom of each avocado half so they sit flat on the plate, then use a spoon to slightly enlarge the pit cavity without breaking through.
  6. 06
    Divide the warm caramelized onion mixture evenly among the avocado halves, filling each cavity.
  7. 07
    Top each stuffed avocado with crumbled cheese, toasted walnuts, and a generous sprinkle of black pepper.
  8. 08
    Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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