Classic Guacamole

This classic guacamole recipe features ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a blend of flavorful ingredients like onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for dipping with chips or as a topping for tacos and other Mexican dishes, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and full of vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe avocados
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt until smooth and creamy.
2. Mix in the diced onion, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and minced garlic.
3. Stir in cayenne pepper for a touch of heat (optional).
4. For best flavor, refrigerate for 1 hour before serving, or enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Guacamole: Add more cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
2. Chunky Guacamole: For a chunkier texture, mash the avocados lightly, leaving larger pieces.
3. Tropical Guacamole: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist.
4. Bacon Guacamole: Crumble cooked bacon into the dip for a smoky flavor.
5. Vegan Guacamole: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but you can experiment with adding additional veggies like corn or bell peppers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: To store leftover guacamole, transfer it to an airtight container and cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent browning. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
• Reheating: Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh and should not be reheated. If refrigerated, give it a good stir before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make guacamole ahead of time? Yes, but for the best flavor, it’s recommended to refrigerate for about 1 hour before serving.
2. How do I keep guacamole from turning brown? To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole, or add extra lime juice.
3. Can I use a food processor to make guacamole? You can, but for better texture, it’s better to mash the avocados by hand. A food processor can make the guacamole too smooth.
4. How can I make guacamole spicier? Add finely chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the guacamole.
5. Is guacamole gluten-free? Yes, guacamole is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
6. What should I serve with guacamole? Guacamole pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, crackers, fresh veggies like carrots and celery, or as a topping for tacos, burgers, or salads.
7. Can I freeze guacamole? It’s not recommended to freeze guacamole as the texture may change once thawed. However, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months if necessary.
8. Can I use lemon juice instead of lime? Lime juice is traditionally used for its unique flavor, but lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
9. How do I know if my avocados are ripe? Ripe avocados yield to gentle pressure when squeezed, but don’t feel mushy. You can also check if the stem pops off easily to reveal green flesh.
10. Can I make guacamole without tomatoes? Yes, you can omit the tomatoes if you prefer a simpler version or if you don’t have them on hand.

Conclusion

This classic guacamole is a quick and simple recipe that delivers bold, fresh flavors in every bite. Whether served with chips, tacos, or as a topping for your favorite dishes, this guacamole is sure to be a hit. Its versatility allows you to adjust the spice level or even add fun ingredients to suit your taste. With minimal preparation, it’s a perfect go-to appetizer for any occasion.

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