San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat — An Encore!

It’s a rematch for the NBA Finals: San Antonio vs. Miami. Just like last year. Some of you are hoping for a three-peat, while others hope the Spurs will come out on top this year. There is no question that both teams are strong contenders. This is the Heat’s fourth trip to the finals in as many years; meanwhile the Spurs are celebrating the franchise’s San sixth trip into the finals.

In terms of what we can expect─if past play is any indication─the Spurs have home-court advantage, which has been a winning recipe for them in these Playoffs. However, Tony Parker’s ankle injury could end of up being the team’s Achilles heel. Let’s not forget Game 6 last year. For Spurs fans, and for lack of anything more poetic to say, that pretty much sucked. And the team, devastated and totally deflated, pretty much didn’t show up for Game 7. This series is truly a test of the Spurs’ mental toughness. As for the Heat…two words: LeBron James. James’ leadership, sportsmanship, athleticism, and talent only seems to grow with every game. Add in DWade, Bosh, and veteran (clutch shooter) Ray Allen and the Heat look good.

It’s going to be an exciting final, perhaps one for the ages, and the only thing that makes it more exciting is once again both teams come from two great foodie cities. Miami to me represents heat and Cuban/Latin flavors. So I say bring South Beach to your living room this June as you tune into the Finals. I give you this avocado and pineapple recipe, which is perfect for picnic-ing in front of the TV!

Avocado and Pineapple Salad

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup white wine vinegar (or champagne vinegar)
1/3 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or more to taste)
2 cups of fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
2 large avocados, peeled and sliced the long way
1 medium sweet red onion, thinly sliced
1 head butter lettuce, shredded*
1/4 cup Italian flat leaf parsley, minced**

*This also works well with romaine or iceberg.
**You can also use cilantro for a more Latin flavor

Preparation

Combine olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, lime juice, salt, pepper, and sugar in a blender until fully blended.

Combine the lettuce, avocado, red onion, and pineapple in a bowl.

Pour on the oil and vinegar dressing over the fruits/onions until everything is well coated but not drenched. Lightly toss.

Garnish by sprinkling the parsley and give an extra sprinkle of pepper — preferably black pepper.

Be sure to serve this chilled (and with a mojito)! Enjoy!