Traditional Guacamole

This is a Guacamole Recipe made with avocado, lime, red onion, cilantro, serrano peppers, and salt.

Guacamole is a classic and versatile dip that has become a beloved favorite around the globe. Made primarily with ripe avocados, it's a creamy, flavorful blend that combines the richness of avocados with the freshness of lime juice, the zing of cilantro, and the subtle heat of jalapeños or other spices. This combination creates a heavenly dip that is both creamy and refreshing, making it the perfect accompaniment to chips, tacos, burritos, or as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables.

What makes guacamole truly special is its ability to be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you like it mild or spicy, chunky or smooth, there's a guacamole recipe that's just right for you. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate healthy fats and nutrients into your diet, as avocados are packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Tomatillo Poblano Salsa or my Guajillo Red Salsa.

Jump to:

• What is Guacamole?
• Why is Guacamole so great?
• Guacamole Recipe Ingredients
• Instructions
• What to serve with Guacamole
• Substitutions
• Guacamole Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Guacamole
• Guacamole Recipe Top tips
• Guacamole Recipe
• Food safety

What is Guacamole?

Guacamole is a popular Mexican dip or condiment that is known for its creamy texture and delicious flavors. It is primarily made with mashed or pureed avocados, which serve as the base ingredient. Guacamole typically includes a variety of other ingredients such as lime juice, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños or other chili peppers, and seasonings like salt and pepper.

The star of guacamole, the avocado, is a fruit that is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Its creamy and buttery texture lends itself well to creating a smooth and velvety dip. The addition of lime juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent the avocados from oxidizing and turning brown.

Why is Guacamole so great?

• Creamy and Delicious: Guacamole has a rich and creamy texture that instantly pleases the palate. The smoothness of mashed avocados combined with the freshness of lime juice creates a luscious and satisfying dip that is a delight to eat.
• Flavorful and Balanced: Guacamole is a flavor powerhouse. The combination of avocados, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice creates a harmonious blend of tastes. The creaminess of avocados, the zing of lime, the sharpness of onions, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the freshness of cilantro all come together to create a well-balanced and mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile: Guacamole is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. It serves as an excellent dip for tortilla chips, but it also works wonderfully as a topping for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, burgers, salads, and more. Its versatility allows you to incorporate it into various dishes to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
• Nutrient-Rich: Avocados, the primary ingredient in guacamole, are packed with nutrients. They are a good source of healthy fats, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, and several B vitamins), minerals (including potassium and magnesium), and antioxidants. Guacamole allows you to enjoy the benefits of avocados in a tasty and convenient form.

Guacamole Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Avocado
• Limes
• Red onion
• Cilantro
• Serrano
• Salt

See recipe card for Guacamole Vegan quantities.

Instructions

1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop the flesh into a bowl.
2. Mash the avocados using a fork until you reach your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the mashed avocados and mix well to prevent browning.
4. Add the finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and serrano pepper to the bowl.
5. Season with salt, starting with a pinch, and taste. Adjust the salt and other ingredients according to your preference.
6. Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
7. Taste and adjust the lime juice, salt, or other seasonings if needed.
8. Serve the guacamole immediately with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or your favorite dishes.

Hint: If you prefer this avocado recipe be chunky, don’t make it in the food processor. Instead, you can finely dice the onion, tomatoes and jalapeños with a knife and use your fork to mash your avocado.

What to serve with Guacamole

• Tortilla Chips: Tortilla chips are the classic and most common choice for enjoying guacamole. Their crunchy texture and salty flavor complement the creamy guacamole perfectly.
• Tacos and Burritos: Guacamole is a fantastic topping for tacos and burritos. Spoon it onto your favorite fillings, such as grilled chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetarian options, to add a creamy and flavorful element to your Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Quesadillas: Serve guacamole as a side or dipping sauce for quesadillas. The creamy and tangy guacamole pairs well with the melted cheese and crispy tortilla of the quesadilla.
• Nachos: Create a mouthwatering plate of nachos by spreading a layer of guacamole over tortilla chips, then topping it with melted cheese, black beans, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and sour cream. The combination of flavors and textures is irresistible.

Substitutions

• Lime:

• Vinegar: Use a mild vinegar like apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute for lime juice. Keep in mind that vinegar has a more pronounced tanginess, so adjust the amount to taste.
• Lemon Juice: Swap lime juice with lemon juice for a citrusy flavor alternative.

• Red Onion:

• Scallions (Green Onions): Thinly slice the green parts of scallions to replace red onions. They provide a milder onion flavor.
• Shallots: Shallots can serve as a substitute for red onions, offering a similar pungency but with a sweeter and milder taste.

• Cilantro:

• Fresh Parsley: If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley can be used as an alternative. It adds a mild herbaceous flavor and freshness.
• Fresh Basil: Another option is fresh basil, which has a distinct and aromatic flavor that can add a unique twist to your guacamole.

• Serrano:

• Jalapeños: Jalapeños can replace serrano peppers. They have a similar level of heat, so adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes as a substitute for fresh serrano peppers.

Guacamole Recipe Variations

• Mango Guacamole: Add diced ripe mangoes to the traditional guacamole recipe. The sweet and juicy mangoes complement the creamy avocado and add a burst of tropical flavor.
• Roasted Corn Guacamole: Roast fresh corn on the cob until it's slightly charred, then cut off the kernels and mix them into the guacamole. The smoky and sweet corn adds a delicious texture and flavor.
• Spicy Guacamole: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the guacamole. You can also include a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick.

Check out my Tzatziki Sauce.

Equipment

1. Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and chopping the ingredients.
2. Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping the ingredients.
3. Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl is ideal for combining all the ingredients and mixing them together.
4. Fork or Potato Masher: A fork or potato masher is useful for mashing the avocados to achieve the desired texture.
5. Citrus Juicer or Reamer: If you're using fresh limes or lemons, a citrus juicer or reamer can help extract the juice easily.
6. Spoon: A spoon is handy for scooping out the avocado flesh and mixing the guacamole.

Optional equipment:

1. Molcajete and Pestle: A traditional Mexican mortar and pestle made of stone, such as a molcajete, can be used to crush the ingredients and create a chunkier guacamole.
2. Food Processor: If you prefer a smoother and more consistent texture, a food processor can be used to blend the ingredients together.
3. Plastic Wrap: If you need to store the guacamole in the refrigerator, plastic wrap can help keep it fresh by preventing air exposure.

How to store Guacamole

Storing guacamole properly is important to maintain its freshness and prevent it from turning brown. Here are some tips on how to store guacamole:

1. Refrigeration: Place the guacamole in an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring there is no air exposure. Refrigerate it promptly to slow down the oxidation process.
2. Lemon or Lime Juice: Squeeze a small amount of fresh lemon or lime juice over the surface of the guacamole before storing. The citric acid helps to slow down browning and preserve the vibrant green color.
3. Pressing Method: If you want to store guacamole for an extended period, try the pressing method. Smooth the surface of the guacamole with a spoon, creating a flat and even layer. Cover the container with plastic wrap, making sure it touches the surface of the guacamole to minimize air contact.
4. Seal Properly: Ensure that the container is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure. This helps to keep the guacamole fresh and slows down the oxidation process.
5. Short-Term Storage: Guacamole can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it's best to consume it within the first day for optimal taste and freshness.
6. Freezing: I would not recommend freezing.

Guacamole Recipe Top tips

• Use Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that are ripe but not overly soft. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. A ripe avocado will mash easily and have a creamy texture.
• Add Citrus Juice: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the guacamole to add brightness and prevent browning. The acid in the citrus juice helps to maintain the vibrant green color and adds a tangy flavor.
• Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add salt gradually and taste as you go, keeping in mind that other ingredients like tortilla chips can also contribute saltiness. Adjust the acidity by adding more lime or lemon juice if needed.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness according to your taste. If you prefer mild guacamole, remove the seeds and membranes from the serrano or jalapeño pepper before mincing. For a hotter kick, leave some or all of the seeds and membranes intact.
• Don't Overmix: To achieve a chunky texture, gently mash the avocados with a fork or potato masher, leaving some small chunks for texture. Avoid overmixing, as it can result in a smooth and less desirable consistency.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Stir in the diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced serrano or jalapeño pepper at the end to preserve their flavors and textures.
• Let It Rest: Allow the guacamole to sit for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
• Serve Immediately or Cover Well: Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh. If not serving immediately, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the guacamole to minimize air contact. This helps to prevent browning.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.