Authentic Guacamole Recipe: Fresh, Zesty and Easy to Make
This authentic guacamole recipe is everything guac should be—creamy, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavor. Made with ripe Hass avocados, lime, onion, tomato, cilantro, and a touch of chili, it’s the perfect appetizer, taco topping, or healthy snack. No fillers. No fuss. Just real, fresh ingredients.
What Is Guacamole?
Guacamole is a traditional Mexican dip made primarily from mashed avocados and seasoned with lime, salt, onion, and herbs. Its origins date back to the Aztecs, and today it’s a staple in both Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. What makes a great guacamole? Simplicity—and fresh, high-quality ingredients. This version stays true to its roots with classic components and an optional touch of heat.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Naturally creamy and full of bold, fresh flavors.
- Ready in under 10 minutes—no blender required.
- Customizable heat with Serrano or red chilli.
- Great for parties, burrito bowls, tacos, and healthy dipping.
- Gluten-free, vegan, and packed with heart-healthy fats.
Pro Tips for the Best Guacamole
- Use ripe Hass avocados: They should yield slightly when gently squeezed—too firm and they won’t mash properly.
- Lime is key: It prevents browning and balances the richness of the avocado.
- Chop finely: Especially the onion, cilantro, and chilli—for better texture and even distribution.
- Add salt last: Taste after mixing and adjust—it brings all the flavors together.
- Serve fresh: Guacamole is best eaten right away, but see storage tips below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep guacamole from turning brown?
Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to limit air exposure. Adding lime juice also slows oxidation. You can also cover it with a thin layer of water or EVOO and refrigerate.
Can I make guacamole ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep it 2–3 hours in advance. Store in the fridge in an airtight container with lime juice and wrap pressed on top.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try chopped parsley or just omit it entirely—your guacamole will still taste amazing.
Is guacamole spicy?
It depends on the chilli used. Serrano is spicy; red chilli is usually milder. You can easily adjust the heat to your taste—or skip the chilli altogether.
What’s the best way to serve guacamole?
Serve it with tortilla chips, tacos, fajitas, grilled meats, or even spread it on toast. It’s super versatile and adds flavor to almost anything.
How to Store
Place leftover guacamole in an airtight container, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, and refrigerate. It’s best consumed within 24 hours. Stir before serving and add a fresh squeeze of lime to revive flavor and color.
How to Freeze
While guacamole with tomato and onion doesn’t freeze well, plain mashed avocado with lime can be frozen. Store in freezer bags with the air pressed out. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir in the remaining ingredients fresh before serving.
Ingredients
How to Make Perfect Guacamole
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion and tomato, making sure to remove any seeds from the tomato to avoid excess liquid. Thinly slice the chilli and finely chop the cilantro—the smaller, the better for even flavor distribution.
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion and tomato, making sure to remove any seeds from the tomato to avoid excess liquid. Thinly slice the chilli and finely chop the cilantro—the smaller, the better for even flavor distribution.
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and use a spoon to scoop the flesh into a mortar and pestle or a medium mixing bowl. Add the juice of one lime and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the avocado, then mash until smooth but slightly chunky. You can use a fork if you don’t have a mortar.
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and use a spoon to scoop the flesh into a mortar and pestle or a medium mixing bowl. Add the juice of one lime and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the avocado, then mash until smooth but slightly chunky. You can use a fork if you don’t have a mortar.
Next, add in the diced onion, tomato, chopped chilli, and cilantro. Mix everything together gently until well combined.
Next, add in the diced onion, tomato, chopped chilli, and cilantro. Mix everything together gently until well combined.
Taste and adjust the salt as needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and, for a little flair, garnish with extra slices of chilli or a few whole cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or your favorite mains.
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