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This simple guacamole recipe brings the bright flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen and comes together fast with only fresh ingredients. I have made this countless times for parties and potlucks and it always disappears within minutes.
Every time I make this guacamole it reminds me of sunny afternoons with friends gathered around the table everyone dipping straight into the bowl and trading stories.
Ingredients
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- Ripe avocados: Choose large avocados that yield gently to pressure make sure the skin is dark green and has no soft sunken spots
- Yellow onion: Finely dice for a sweet bite look for firm onions without soft spots or sprouting
- Roma tomatoes: Dice and drain extra juice for a less watery dip choose firm tomatoes with deep red color
- Fresh cilantro: Chop leaves only stems can taste woody pick bright green bunches and avoid yellowed leaves
- Jalapeno pepper: Remove seeds for mild heat or leave some in for kick choose shiny smooth peppers with no wrinkling
- Garlic cloves: Mince for bold flavor tight heavy bulbs are fresher
- Lime: Freshly squeeze for the best tang avoid bottled juice as the flavor is less vibrant
- Sea salt: Use fine grain for even seasoning taste as you go
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Avocados:
- Slice ripe avocados in half remove the pits and scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl. Using a spoon makes quick work and keeps your hands clean.
- Mash to Desired Texture:
- Use a fork to mash the avocado until you get your perfect consistency. For chunkier guacamole press gently with the fork. For smoother dip mash until creamy. Do not rush this step as texture is part of the magic.
- Mix in Aromatics:
- Add finely diced onion chopped cilantro minced garlic and diced jalapeno to the bowl. Fold in gently to keep the avocado fluffy rather than pasty.
- Add Tomatoes and Lime Juice:
- Gently stir in diced tomatoes and squeeze in the juice from your fresh lime. Avoid overmixing to prevent the guacamole from becoming watery.
- Season and Taste:
- Start by sprinkling in sea salt. Taste and adjust salt and lime juice to your liking. Let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Scoop the guacamole into a serving bowl. Serve immediately alongside tortilla chips or crisp vegetable sticks for dipping.
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One of my favorite ingredients in this recipe is definitely the fresh cilantro. Its brightness always brings me right back to the homemade guacamole my uncle used to serve on family taco nights. He would always insist on picking the leaves himself for extra freshness and even those who claimed not to love cilantro could not resist another scoop.
Storage Tips
Store leftover guacamole in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface before sealing the lid. This cuts back on browning. Add an extra squeeze of lime juice on top to keep the color even greener. Guacamole is best eaten within twenty four hours of making but it can last up to two days if stored properly.
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Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Roma tomatoes use grape or cherry tomatoes cut into small pieces. For the onion red onion brings a sharper taste if preferred. For more heat swap jalapeno for serrano pepper or omit for a milder dip. Lemon can replace lime but the flavor will change slightly.
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Serving Suggestions
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This guacamole is not just for chips. Spread on toast for a breakfast upgrade spoon onto salads serve with grilled chicken or layer onto tacos and burritos. Sometimes I even toss it with cold pasta for a quick colorful lunch.
Cultural Context
Guacamole traces its roots back to the Aztecs and is still a staple on most Mexican tables today. The combination of creamy avocado with fresh herbs and a dash of lime captures the best of the region’s vibrant flavor traditions.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I select the best avocados?
Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure and are free from dark blemishes. Ripe avocados result in a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- → Can I customize the spiciness?
Adjust the spiciness by increasing or reducing the amount of jalapeño, or try adding serrano peppers for more heat.
- → How do I keep guacamole green longer?
Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface or store in airtight containers. A sprinkle of lime juice also helps prevent browning.
- → What can I serve with guacamole?
Guacamole pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for salads and sandwiches.
- → Can I make guacamole in advance?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it up to a few hours ahead if well-covered and kept chilled to retain color and flavor.
- → Do I have to use Roma tomatoes?
Roma tomatoes are recommended for their firmness, but any ripe, firm tomato will work well.