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Shepard avocados are creamy, nutty, and stay green even after cutting—perfect for a variety of dishes! Here are 12 delicious and easy ways to use them:

1. Smashed Avocado on Toast: Mash Shepard avocado with lemon juice, salt, and chilli flakes. Spread on sourdough and top with feta or poached eggs.
2. Avocado & Egg Wrap: Scramble eggs with a touch of cheese, add sliced avocado, and wrap in a tortilla for an easy breakfast on the go.
3. Avocado Smoothie:  Blend a Shepard avocado with banana, spinach, almond milk, and honey for a creamy, nutrient-packed smoothie.
4. Avocado & Chicken Salad: Toss diced avocado with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, rocket, and a lemon dressing.
5. Shepard Avocado Sushi Bowls: Layer rice, avocado slices, cucumber, smoked salmon, and sesame seeds. Drizzle with soy sauce and wasabi mayo.
6. Stuffed Avocado: Fill halved a Shepard avocados with tuna, chickpeas, or prawns mixed with Greek yoghurt and herbs.
7. Avocado & Lime Pasta: Blend a Shepard avocado with garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free pasta sauce.
8. Shepard Avocado Tacos: Slice avocado and add it to soft tacos with grilled prawns, slaw, and chipotle mayo.
9. Grilled Avocado & Halloumi Burger: Stack grilled halloumi, avocado slices, tomato, and rocket on a brioche bun.
10. Avocado Chocolate Mousse: Blend a Shepard avocado with cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla for a rich, healthy dessert.
11. Avocado & Feta Dip: Mash avocado with feta, lemon juice, and garlic for a creamy dip that can be served with crackers or veggie sticks.
12.  Avocado Ice Cream:  Puree avocado with condensed milk and freeze for a luscious, dairy-free treat

Seasonality

Shepard avocados are in season from February to May, making them the perfect choice for late summer and autumn dishes.They arrive just as Hass avocados start to disappear, providing a fresh alternative during the transition between avocado varieties.

Where They’re Grown

Shepard avocados are grown in Queensland, particularly in regions like Atherton Tablelands, Bundaberg, and Central Queensland. Their tropical origins contribute to their smooth texture and rich flavour.

Shape & Skin

They are elongated, pear-like, and slightly different from the rounder Hass avocado.

Their skin is glossy and smooth and stays bright green even when ripe, unlike Hass, which darkens as it ripens. The skin is slightly firmer, making it easier to slice and scoop without bruising.

Flavour & Texture

Shepard avocados have a nutty, buttery taste with a slightly firmer, less creamy texture compared to Hass.

They hold their shape well, making them ideal for salads, sandwiches, and slicing without turning mushy.

Another big advantage? They don’t brown as quickly after cutting, making them perfect for meal prep and presentation.

Shepard avocados are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to a healthy diet.