South Africa, if ever there was a time to come together as friends and family (less than 10 of your besties, please) and celebrate our heritage as a colourful, resilient, determined nation, it is this Heritage Day. And what better way to do that than with a braai boasting the best in homegrown goodness – we mean South African avos, of course!

No self-respecting Mzansi braai is complete without a salad or three, and this Heritage Day our avos are ripe and ready – so go on add an avo to your salads.

Like our South African avo four bean and samp salad with tequila vinaigrette. Or our avo, naartjie/clementine and caramelised pecan nut salad, with poppy seed dressing. Or how about an avo and charred corn salad with zingy amasi dressing? And don’t forget the wholesome potato salad with avo-nnaise, which is so much more on-trend than regular mayonnaise and might just be a must-have if you’re trying to shed those lockdown kilos (who isn’t, right?)

Speaking of health, did you know that some of the nutrients in avos may actually assist with immune support?

It’s true. Avos are high in copper (33%), a mineral known to support immune system function. They are a source of fibre (5.3g fibre per 100g), which is needed for good gut health. Around 65% of our immune system is housed in the gut, where bacteria not only digest food and regulate our immune systems but also protect us against invading pathogens that cause disease. Avos also contain antioxidant nutrients such as lycopene and beta-carotene, powerful components that maintain and regulate immune function.

So fire up those coals and throw the braai of all braais to celebrate your South African heritage. Don’t forget to add a pinch of family and friends, a dollop of gratitude, and a really good sprinkling of homegrown avo goodness!

For further information and avo recipes, visit www.avocado.co.za, like @iloveavocadoSA.co.za on Facebook and follow @iloveavossa on Instagram.