Ingredients
- 3 large ripe Hass avocados
- 1 medium Roma tomato, seeded and diced
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (leave seeds for extra heat if desired)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced (optional)
- Pinch of ground cumin (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Avocados
Slice the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a medium mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mash
Using a fork or potato masher, mash the avocados to your preferred consistency. Leave it slightly chunky for a traditional guacamole or mash until smoother if desired.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, garlic (if using), lime juice, salt, black pepper, and cumin (if using). Gently fold everything together until evenly combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, lime juice, or jalapeño to suit your preferences.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the guacamole to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapeño slices if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, tacos, burritos, or your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This fresh guacamole is perfect with:
- Tortilla chips
- Tacos
- Burritos
- Nachos
- Quesadillas
- Fajitas
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Shrimp tacos
- Veggie platters
- Burgers and sandwiches
- Breakfast toast
- Rice bowls
Recipe Tips
- Use ripe Hass avocados that yield slightly when gently pressed.
- Add the tomato just before serving to keep the guacamole fresh and prevent excess liquid.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the brightest flavor and helps slow browning.
- Finely dice all ingredients so every bite is well balanced.
- For a chunkier guacamole, stir gently after mashing the avocados.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to minimize air exposure and reduce browning.
- A thin layer of lime juice over the top can also help preserve its color.
- Stir well before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep guacamole from turning brown?
Press plastic wrap directly against the surface, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate promptly. Lime juice also helps slow oxidation.
Can I make guacamole ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it up to a few hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed the same day for maximum freshness.
Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra jalapeño, serrano pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Can I leave out the cilantro?
Yes. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, simply omit it or replace it with chopped parsley for a different fresh flavor.
What are the best avocados for guacamole?
Hass avocados are ideal because of their rich, creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
