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This quick guacamole bursts with fresh flavor thanks to creamy avocados and a generous punch of aromatics. Fifteen minutes is all it takes to whip up a dip that rivals your favorite Mexican spot.
I love making this for parties because the bowl is always scraped clean long before dinner starts. The first time I made a batch using the bag-smashing method the guacamole had way more pop and depth. Now everyone asks for my “secret guac.”
Ingredients
- Ripe Hass avocados: Rich and creamy base Make sure the skins are almost black and the fruit yields gently when pressed
- Red onion: Brings sharpness and a mild bite Choose firm onions with shiny skins for the best flavor
- Jalapeño peppers: Add heat and crunch Use fresh and adjust seeds to control the spice
- Garlic: Gives savory depth Fresh cloves really do make a difference over jarred
- Lime or lemon juice: Adds brightness and keeps guacamole green Pick juicy fruit that feels heavy for its size
- Cilantro: Delivers fresh herbal flavor Use bright green stems and leaves for the most aromatic result
- Kosher salt: Controls flavor and enhances every bite Bigger grains mean less risk of oversalting
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the savory notes Go for a fresh unopened spice jar if possible
- Chile lime seasoning: Gives a signature tang and spice Look for a blend like Tajin for zippy flavor
- Tortilla chips: The classic crunch for serving Try to choose a sturdy chip that will not break under a good scoop
- Extra cilantro: For garnish and extra freshness Always chop just before serving for best color
Instructions
- Smash the Aromatics:
- Place the finely diced red onion jalapeno and chopped garlic in a resealable bag with a pinch of kosher salt Seal the bag and use the heel of your hand or a rolling pin to press down firmly for about one minute You want to crush them just enough to release their juices but not so much you turn everything to mush This simple move deepens the flavor of your guac and softens any harshness from raw onion and garlic
- Mash the Avocados:
- Slice open your avocados remove the pits and scoop the flesh into a large bowl Make sure there are no large brown spots and discard any tough or stringy parts Use a fork or potato masher to break the avocados down into coarse or super smooth texture based on your preference
- Blend Everything:
- Add the smashed aromatics lime or lemon juice chopped cilantro kosher salt garlic powder and chile lime seasoning Stir gently to combine Mix just until everything is evenly distributed so you keep a few luscious chunks of avocado intact
- Taste and Adjust:
- Spoon up a taste with a tortilla chip Adjust salt spice or lime juice if needed If you want extra heat add some seeds back from the jalapeno
- Serve with Style:
- Spoon your finished guacamole into a dish Top with fresh cilantro and serve right away with tortilla chips or alongside tacos nachos and more
Impossible to stop at just one scoop The kick from jalapeno is my favorite part I remember my dad wrinkling his nose the first time I added extra jalapeno to our guac Now he cannot get enough of it My toddler also loves to help squish the avocados with his tiny fork
Storage Tips
Guacamole is at its best right after making but you can slow browning by pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing tightly in the fridge I like to add a few drops of extra lime juice on top for even more protection from air exposure It will keep fresh for up to twenty four hours but the color may slowly fade
Ingredient Substitutions
If you dislike cilantro you can skip it altogether or swap for chopped chives For a smoky kick try chipotle powder instead of chile lime seasoning Yellow onion works as a milder substitute for red onion and serrano peppers can stand in for jalapeno for those who want bigger heat
Serving Suggestions
Guacamole is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips scooping onto tacos or dolloping atop grilled chicken I love to pile it onto breakfast toast with a sprinkle of feta or layer inside burritos for an extra fresh bite Try serving with fresh vegetables like carrots or cucumber slices for a lighter option
Cultural and Historical Context
Guacamole has roots in Aztec cuisine where mashed avocados were enjoyed with indigenous chiles and tomatoes It remains a staple in Mexican cooking celebrated for its simplicity and boldness My family has shared guacamole at every gathering big or small for as long as I can remember Making and sharing guac is tradition in many homes across the world
Seasonal Adaptations
Use local citrus when in season for maximum freshness Swap in hot local peppers in late summer for new twists Top with diced tomatoes in late summer for extra color
Success Stories
Once I brought this guacamole to a neighbor’s potluck and a guest from Mexico City said it tasted just like home I have had friends text me for this recipe to serve at weddings showers and Sunday game days The simple secrets and the smashing trick really do make it stand out
Freezer Meal Conversion
While guacamole is best fresh you can freeze it in small airtight bags Remove all the air before sealing and defrost gently in the fridge Stir before serving Some texture may change but the taste stays great for taco bowls or burritos
This guacamole delivers a restaurant-worthy burst of flavor with every bite. Use the smashing trick once and you may never go back to your old recipe!
FAQs about Recipes
- → How do I keep guacamole from browning?
Press plastic wrap directly on the surface and add a splash of extra lime or lemon juice to help slow oxidation.
- → Can I make guacamole ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Store covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
- → What can I serve with guacamole?
Tortilla chips, sliced veggies, toasted bread, or as a topping for tacos and grilled meats work beautifully.
- → How spicy is this guacamole?
Spiciness is adjustable. Remove all jalapeño seeds for a milder taste, or leave some in for more heat.
- → Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes! Lemon juice offers a slightly different but still bright and tangy flavor to balance the avocado.