Guacamole is a classic Mexican preparation centered on ripe avocados mashed into a smooth, creamy base and combined with bright, fresh ingredients. A well-made guacamole balances creaminess, acidity, and a touch of heat. It works beautifully as a dip for tortilla chips, a topping for tacos and burritos, a spread for sandwiches, or an accompaniment to grilled meats and fresh vegetables. With a few simple ingredients and quick prep, you can make a flavorful guacamole at home in minutes.
Ingredients you’ll need for this recipe (full recipe below)
- Avocado – The foundation of guacamole. Use ripe but not overripe avocados for the best texture and flavor.
- Tomato – Adds juiciness and fresh flavor; roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well when diced and drained of excess juice.
- Red onion – Provides a sharp, crisp bite; finely diced so it blends without overpowering the avocado.
- Jalapeño – For heat. Remove seeds for a milder result or leave them in for more spice. Adjust to taste.
- Cilantro – Brightens the guacamole with fresh, herbal notes. Chop coarsely or finely depending on preference.
- Lime – Fresh lime juice adds acidity to lift flavors and helps slow browning.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning. Kosher salt is suggested, but use your preferred salt and adjust to taste.
How can I keep it from turning brown?
- To reduce browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface of the guacamole to eliminate air contact, then refrigerate. Alternatively, store the guacamole in an airtight container and pour a thin layer of lime juice over the top before sealing. These methods slow oxidation and help the guacamole stay green for longer.
What can I add to give it a spicy kick?
- Finely diced jalapeño, serrano, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce will introduce heat. You can also use diced chipotle in adobo for a smoky, spicy flavor. Start with a small amount, taste, and increase until you reach the desired spice level.
Can I make guacamole ahead of time?
- Yes. Guacamole can be made a few hours in advance if stored properly. Use the airtight container and surface-contact methods described above. If making a day ahead, keep ingredients like tomatoes or onions separate and add them just before serving for maximum freshness and texture.
How ripe should avocados be for making guacamole?
- Avocados should yield slightly to gentle pressure without feeling mushy or overly soft. Too-firm avocados will be difficult to mash and may taste underripe, while overripe fruit can be watery or brown inside. Choose fruit that feels slightly soft but still holds its shape.
Guacamole
15 mins
6
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe avocados
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
- Juice of 1–2 limes (about 2 tablespoons), to taste
Instructions
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Mash the avocado with a fork or potato masher until you reach your preferred consistency — from chunky to smooth.
- Fold in the finely chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and diced tomato. Add fresh lime juice and mix to combine.
- Season with kosher salt to taste. Adjust lime, salt, and jalapeño until the flavors are balanced. Serve immediately or store as directed.
Tips and Variations
For a creamier guacamole, mash the avocados with a whisk or use an immersion blender for a short pulse. If you prefer no cilantro, substitute chopped parsley or scallions. To add depth, stir in a pinch of ground cumin or a small spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. For smoky flavor, add minced chipotle in adobo or roast the jalapeño before chopping.
If you plan to serve guacamole with crispy chips, combine the ingredients just before guests arrive to preserve texture. When storing, keep the surface covered and refrigerated; guacamole is best eaten within 24–48 hours for peak flavor.
Nutrition
138 kcal per serving
Nutrition information is an estimate and should be used as a guideline only. Exact values will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.