This is the time of year that can be a little bit painful for those of us who yearn for sunshine and summer vibes. The weather is constantly playing games with us – sunny yet freezing, or drizzly with the kind of cold damp that gets deep in your bones and then of course there are all those grey clouds that just won’t skedaddle and let us enjoy our tulips and daffodils under perfect blue skies.

That’s why guacamole is so important this time of year. Bright green, delicious and full of B6.

The B6 vitamin is needed for proper brain development and function and to make the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which affect mood. Vitamin B6 also helps the body make melatonin, which is important in helping regulate your internal clock. – Everyday Health

This is the time of year when a desperate longing for sunshine and short shorts can make even the most rational Canadian go a bit nuts. That’s why it is very important to keep those serotonin levels up. So, eat more guacamole.

You can make it yourself, or buy some pre-made at the store, or ask the top guacamole chefs in Toronto to whip up their best versions. I don’t know about you but I prefer option #3.
The annual Guacamole Smackdown is back tomorrow night at the Drake Hotel and everyone is welcome. The Stop Community Food Centre will have volunteers on hand accepting donations from guacamole lovers as they line up to taste entries from Baro, El Rey, La Carnita, Che and Cocina Economica. Details here.

Summer is coming, until then – guacamole for everyone!