Baked Avocados with Warm Strawberry-Goat Cheese Salsa
Halved avocados roasted until tender, then topped with a fresh strawberry salsa featuring goat cheese, basil, and balsamic vinegar. The warm fruit against cool, creamy avocado creates a balance of textures and temperatures. Serve as a light appetizer, brunch dish, or starter course. This version combines the unexpected pairing of warm baked avocado with bright, chilled strawberry topping for contrast.
Ingredients
- 3 avocados, halved
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 2 scallions, white and light green parts thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons goat cheese, crumbles
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- salt, to taste(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- 2
Cut avocados in half lengthwise and remove pits. Place halves flesh-side up in a baking dish. If unstable, slice a thin flat area on the back of each half to stabilize.
- 3
Rub a thin layer of olive oil over the flesh of each avocado half.
- 4
Bake for 8 minutes.
- 5
While avocados bake, combine strawberries, scallions, goat cheese, basil, and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl.
- 6
Remove avocados from oven and spoon strawberry salsa into the cavity of each half.
- 7
Return to oven and bake for 2-3 minutes.
- 8
Remove from oven, sprinkle with salt, and serve warm.
Tips
Stabilize avocado halves by slicing a small flat patch on the back if they tip; this prevents filling from spilling during baking.
Assemble the strawberry salsa while avocados bake to maximize freshness and keep ingredients cool and crisp.
Serve immediately while avocados are warm but salsa remains cool for textural contrast.
Good to Know
Salsa can be refrigerated separately for up to 1 day; baked avocados best served immediately but can be reheated gently.
Prepare salsa up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate covered. Roast avocados fresh just before serving to avoid browning and texture loss.
Serve warm as an appetizer for brunch or light lunch. Pairs well with crusty bread or as a side to grilled fish or chicken.
Common Mistakes
Do not overbake avocados or they will become mushy; 8 minutes is sufficient to warm through without degrading flesh.
Do not add salsa before first baking period or strawberries will release water and soften.
Do not skip the stabilizing slice if avocados are round; they will tip and spill filling.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
The strawberry salsa keeps refrigerated for up to 4 hours. Bake avocados fresh just before serving to maintain texture and prevent browning.
What if my avocados are very ripe and soft?
Reduce baking time to 5-6 minutes or skip the first bake and go straight to adding salsa and the final 2-3 minute bake. Very ripe avocados need minimal heat.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Ricotta, feta, or even crumbled blue cheese work well. Use the same quantity as goat cheese but note that feta adds more saltiness and blue cheese changes flavor profile significantly.