Guacamole is a tasty dip made with ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt. It’s smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor! Perfect for chips or as a topping on tacos.
Honestly, who can resist guacamole? I love making it with friends—slicing avocados and adding a bit of spice always makes for a fun time. Grab some tortilla chips and let’s dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados—they should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed. If avocados are hard, you can place them in a brown bag at room temperature for a day or two to speed up ripening.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the guacamole and prevents browning. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice can work as a substitute, though it has a slightly different taste.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavors. Start with 1/2 teaspoon, and adjust to your liking. Sea salt or kosher salt gives a nice texture and flavor boost.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are best for color and taste. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you could use canned diced tomatoes that are well-drained or even roasted red peppers for a twist.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness, but if you’re not a fan, parsley could be a mild substitute. You can omit it altogether if desired.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Guacamole Consistency?
A common struggle with guacamole is achieving the right texture. Here’s my tip: mash the avocados to your preference! For a chunky guacamole, use a fork to mash lightly. For a smoother texture, you can use a potato masher or even a food processor.
- Begin by cutting and removing the avocado flesh into a bowl.
- Use a fork to mash, checking your preferred consistency.
- Remember, you can always adjust your ingredients after mashing, so don’t rush!
Lastly, enjoy it fresh! Guacamole is best consumed right away. If you need to store it, press plastic wrap directly on the surface to minimize oxidation.
How to Make Guacamole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This guacamole recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time. It’s quick to make, so you can whip it up right before a gathering or simply for a snack at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Start by cutting the avocados in half. Carefully remove the pits and scoop the green flesh into a mixing bowl using a spoon.
2. Mash the Avocado:
Using a fork, mash the avocado to your desired consistency. If you like it chunky, mash lightly; for a smoother guacamole, keep mashing until it’s creamy.
3. Add the Lime Juice and Salt:
Pour the fresh lime juice and sprinkle the salt over the mashed avocado. Stir gently to mix everything together. The lime juice adds flavor and helps keep the guacamole from browning.
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Now, fold in the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if you want some heat), and minced garlic (if using). Stir well until all the ingredients are combined.
5. Taste Test:
Grab a chip and give your guacamole a taste! If it needs a little more flavor, add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime juice—whatever you prefer!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fresh guacamole right away with tortilla chips, or cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to minimize browning, and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy it!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful guacamole!
Can I Use Ripe Avocados That Are Overripe?
It’s best to use ripe avocados for guacamole, but if they are slightly overripe and still not brown or mushy, you can use them. Just be sure to check for any dark spots or an off smell, as that may indicate they have spoiled.
Can I Make Guacamole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make guacamole ahead of time! To keep it from browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before storing it in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days of making it.
What Can I Use Instead of Lime Juice?
If you don’t have lime juice, you can substitute with lemon juice. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still add acidity to the guacamole and help prevent browning.
How Can I Make My Guacamole Spicier?
If you want a spicier guacamole, consider adding more jalapeño or even diced chili peppers. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
