Guacamole

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I’ve made guacamole more times than I can count, and somehow, it never gets old. Whether I’m scooping it up with a crunchy tortilla chip, spooning it onto tacos, or just enjoying it with a spoon (yes, I’ve done that), there’s something about that creamy, zesty, perfectly seasoned blend that hits all the right notes. It’s simple yet satisfying, and a staple at every gathering I host.

What I love about guacamole is that it doesn’t need a long list of ingredients to shine. With just a few fresh, flavorful components, you can whip up a batch in minutes. The balance of buttery avocado, bright lime, sharp onion, and juicy tomato creates an irresistible combo that’s both comforting and refreshing.

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Why You’ll Love This Guacamole

Guacamole is one of those recipes that delivers big flavor with very little effort. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and loaded with good fats from the avocados. You can make it ahead of time, spice it up to your liking, and pair it with just about anything. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser—there’s rarely a spoonful left when I serve it!

What Kind of Avocados Should I Use?

For guacamole, ripe Hass avocados are the gold standard. They have a rich, creamy texture and bold flavor that really carries the dish. You’ll want avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure—too firm and they’ll be hard to mash, too soft and they might be overripe or brown inside. If you’re picking avocados a day or two in advance, grab ones that are still a bit firm and let them ripen at room temperature.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of something or catering to different tastes, guacamole is forgiving:

• Red onion can be swapped for white or green onions for a milder bite.
• Lime juice gives brightness, but lemon juice will do in a pinch.
• If cilantro isn’t your thing, simply leave it out or add parsley instead.
• Prefer a bit more kick? Add jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce.
• No fresh tomatoes? Use a few spoonfuls of drained salsa for flavor and color.

These swaps let you keep the essence of guacamole while tailoring it to your pantry and preferences.

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Ingredients for This Guacamole

• Ripe Hass Avocados
  The heart of the recipe—creamy, smooth, and full of healthy fats. Make sure they’re ripe but not overripe.
• Fresh Lime Juice
  Adds a zesty brightness and helps slow down browning.
• Tomatoes
  Diced for freshness, color, and a juicy texture contrast.
• Red Onion
  Brings a sharp, savory crunch that balances the creaminess of the avocado.
• Cilantro
  A fresh, herbal note that gives the guacamole its signature flavor (optional if you’re not a fan).
• Salt
  Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
• Jalapeño (optional)
  For those who enjoy a little heat—minced finely so it doesn’t overpower.

These ingredients work together to create a guacamole that’s creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of zippy.

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Step 1: Cut and Scoop the Avocados

Slice the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash them to your preferred texture—smooth or chunky.

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Step 2: Add Lime Juice and Salt

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mashed avocado and sprinkle in the salt. Stir to combine. This not only adds flavor but also helps preserve the bright green color.

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Step 3: Mix in Onion, Tomato, and Cilantro

Fold in the finely chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently to maintain texture while evenly distributing the ingredients.

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Step 4: Adjust to Taste

Taste your guacamole and adjust seasoning as needed—more salt, lime juice, or extra cilantro if desired.

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Step 5: Add Jalapeño (Optional)

If you like a kick, stir in minced jalapeño at this stage. Start with a small amount and build up to your heat tolerance.

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How Long to Cook the Guacamole

There’s no actual cooking involved—guacamole is a raw, fresh dip. From start to finish, it takes about 10 minutes to prepare, depending on how fast you chop and mash. The key is making it just before serving so it stays vibrant and delicious.

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Tips for Perfect Guacamole

• Use ripe avocados – This makes all the difference. If they’re underripe, they’ll be hard to mash and lack flavor.
• Mash gently – A fork or potato masher lets you control the texture better than a food processor.
• Taste as you go – The flavor depends on your ingredients, so adjust the lime and salt to balance it.
• Don’t overmix – Stir just enough to combine; overmixing can make it too mushy.
• Keep it fresh – If making ahead, press plastic wrap directly on the surface to slow oxidation.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using unripe avocados
  They won’t mash well and taste bland. Always check for ripeness before starting.
• Adding too much lime juice
  While lime enhances flavor, overdoing it can make the guacamole too tangy or watery.
• Skipping the salt
  Salt is essential—it pulls the flavors together and makes everything pop.
• Overmixing the ingredients
  Guacamole isn’t meant to be baby food smooth. A little texture gives it character.
• Letting it sit out too long
  Guacamole can brown quickly. Serve it fresh or store it properly if not using right away.

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What to Serve With Guacamole?

Tortilla Chips

A classic and crunchy pairing. Go with salted chips to complement the creamy guac.

Grilled Meats

Spoon it over grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a fresh and creamy contrast.

Tacos

Guacamole is a natural fit for tacos—add it as a topping to carnitas, veggie, or fish tacos.

Burgers and Sandwiches

Use it as a spread for burgers or sandwiches in place of mayo.

Vegetable Crudité

Serve guac with sliced carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers for a healthy snack.

Nachos

Drizzle guacamole over loaded nachos right before serving.

Breakfast Dishes

Top scrambled eggs or avocado toast with guacamole for a bold start to your day.

Baked Potatoes

Use it as a topping for a twist on the classic baked potato.

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Storage Instructions

Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure. Then, seal it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay green and tasty for up to 2 days. A thin layer of lime juice on top can also help prevent browning. If it darkens slightly, just scrape off the top layer before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per 1/4 cup serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 100
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 1g

Guacamole is nutrient-dense, loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and vitamins like C, K, and B6 from the avocados and fresh ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make guacamole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to keep it green and fresh.

How do I keep guacamole from turning brown?

Use fresh lime juice and press plastic wrap onto the surface. You can also add a thin layer of lime juice or water on top and drain it off before serving.

Can I freeze guacamole?

Yes, but it’s best frozen without add-ins like tomatoes or onions. Mash the avocado with lime and salt, then freeze in an airtight bag. Thaw in the fridge and mix in fresh ingredients before serving.

What if my guacamole is too salty?

Stir in a little more avocado, tomato, or lime juice to balance it out.

Is guacamole healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Can I use a blender to make guacamole?

You can, but it may turn out too smooth. A fork or potato masher gives better control over texture.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try minced garlic, diced mango, pineapple, or even crumbled bacon for a twist.

Can I serve guacamole warm?

It’s traditionally served cool or room temperature, but there’s no rule against warming it slightly if that’s your preference.

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Conclusion

Guacamole is one of those timeless, feel-good dishes that never disappoints. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd favorite—whether you’re hosting a party, cooking for family, or just treating yourself. Once you get the balance of flavors right, you’ll find yourself coming back to this creamy, zesty dip again and again.

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