This homemade guacamole is creamy, zesty, and full of flavor. With ripe avocados, fresh lime, and a sprinkle of salt, it’s super easy to whip up for any snack or party!
Honestly, the best part? You can customize it! Add onions, tomatoes, or spices based on what you love. I like to keep some tortilla chips handy because I always end up eating way too much! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe Haas avocados for the best flavor and creaminess. If they’re not available, you can use Fuerte avocados, which are milder and lighter.
Tomato: Any fresh tomato works, but I recommend Roma tomatoes for their firmness and fewer seeds. You can replace them with diced mango for a sweet twist!
Onion: Red onion adds a nice crunch and color. If you prefer a milder taste, you could use green onions or omit them altogether.
Cilantro: This herb brightens the dish! If you’re not a fan of its flavor, fresh parsley is a great substitute.
Lime: Fresh lime juice is key to flavor and preventing browning. Lemon juice can be a standby if lime isn’t available.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Guacamole?
Getting the right texture is important for a delightful guacamole. Start chopping your avocados carefully. If you like it chunky, mash only about 2/3 with a fork, leaving some pieces intact. You can mix more ingredients to add simple flavors.
- Use a fork or potato masher for mashing; avoid blenders to keep some texture.
- Add your other ingredients carefully without over-mixing; gentle folding helps maintain the desired consistency.
- Reserve some chopped tomatoes and onions for garnish to add a nice touch!
The Best Homemade Guacamole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced (plus extra wedges for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This guacamole recipe is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep time. Enjoy your fresh guacamole immediately, but if you want it to rest in the fridge for a bit, keep it covered to avoid browning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Start by cutting the avocados in half and removing the pits. Use a spoon to scoop the creamy flesh into a mixing bowl. Be careful not to scoop out the skin!
2. Mash the Avocado:
Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the avocado to your desired texture. If you like it creamy, mash it well; if you prefer it chunky, leave some pieces intact.
3. Mix in the Fresh Ingredients:
Add the finely diced tomato, chopped red onion, and cilantro to the mashed avocado. Gently fold them in to combine the flavors without over-mixing, which keeps that lovely texture!
4. Add Lime and Salt:
Pour in the lime juice and sprinkle the kosher salt over the mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and make it deliciously zesty.
5. Spice it Up (Optional):
If you enjoy a little heat, add the finely chopped jalapeño and give it another mix. This step is totally optional—make it as spicy as you like!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your guacamole a taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lime juice to your liking.
7. Serve it Up:
Transfer your vibrant guacamole to a serving bowl. Feel free to garnish it with a little chopped onion or a sprinkle of cilantro leaves on top—it makes it look great!
8. Enjoy with Chips:
Serve your homemade guacamole immediately with tortilla chips and maybe a few lime wedges for that extra zing. Happy snacking!
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant homemade guacamole!
Can I Use Frozen Avocados for This Guacamole?
Yes, you can use frozen avocados, but make sure to thaw them completely before mashing. To thaw, simply place the frozen avocado in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water for a quick thaw. Once thawed, drain any excess water before using.
How Can I Keep My Guacamole From Browning?
To prevent browning, store the guacamole in an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before sealing the container. The less air exposure, the better!
Can I Make This Guacamole Ahead of Time?
While guacamole is best fresh, you can make it up to a few hours ahead. Just keep it stored properly, as mentioned above, to limit oxidation. For a little extra freshness, add more lime juice before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley is a great substitute! You could also omit it entirely or try adding a pinch of dried herbs like oregano for a fresh twist.
